Operations Manager-Chocolate Manufacturing

Cavillon Fine Chocolates; Sharjah; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading chocolate manufacturing company in Sharjah is seeking an experienced Operations Manager. Responsibilities include overseeing manufacturing operations, ensuring compliance with food safety standards, and optimizing production processes. Candidates should have over 5 years of experience in the chocolate industry and a relevant bachelor’s degree. Competitive salary offered, with a focus on maintaining high-quality standards.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of proven experience in operations or plant management within the chocolate or confectionery industry.
• Deep understanding of food safety standards and manufacturing best practices.
• Experience working with premium or artisanal chocolate brands.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the chocolate manufacturing plant.
• Develop and implement efficient manufacturing processes.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Skills

Food production

Leadership

Operations Management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Technology or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Production planning tools

Chocolate processing equipment

Job description

Operations Manager - Chocolate Manufacturing

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Operations Manager to lead and optimize our chocolate manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food production, with a specific focus on chocolate manufacturing, and will be responsible for ensuring smooth, efficient, and cost-effective production while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance.

Salary: AED 20,000 to 25,000/-

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the chocolate manufacturing plant, including production, packaging, quality control, maintenance, and logistics.
• Develop and implement efficient manufacturing processes to maximize productivity and minimize waste.
• Collaborate with R&D and product development teams to scale up new chocolate products from pilot to full-scale production.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, GMP, ISO 22000) and company standards.
• Lead, train, and mentor production staff to drive performance and safety.
• Manage supply chain and inventory of raw materials such as cocoa, sugar, milk solids, and packaging.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Maintain and optimize equipment through preventive maintenance schedules.
• Control budgets and drive cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality.
• Coordinate with sales and marketing teams to meet demand forecasts and delivery deadlines.
• Ensure proper documentation of production batches, quality assurance, and compliance records.

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Technology, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or related field.
• 5+ years of proven experience in operations or plant management within the chocolate or confectionery industry.
• Strong knowledge of chocolate processing equipment (conches, tempering machines, refiners, moulding lines, etc.).
• Deep understanding of food safety standards and manufacturing best practices.
• Proficient in ERP systems, production planning tools, and KPI tracking.
• Exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Experience working with premium or artisanal chocolate brands.
• Exposure to export compliance and international food regulations.