Job Title: Managing Director – Oleochemical
Location: North Sumatera, Indonesia
Reports to: Board of Directors / Group CEO
Industry: Manufacturing – Oleochemical / Palm-based Derivatives
Level: Executive Management
Job Purpose:
The Managing Director will provide strategic leadership and direction for the entire oleochemical operations based in North Sumatera. This role is responsible for overseeing production, commercial, financial, and organizational performance, ensuring sustainable growth, operational excellence, and profitability. The successful candidate will lead cross-functional teams, manage key stakeholder relationships (local and international), and ensure compliance with regulatory and environmental standards.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Strategic Leadership & Business Growth
- Develop and implement long-term strategic plans to drive business growth and profitability in the oleochemical sector.
- Identify and execute opportunities for business expansion, innovation, and diversification.
- Lead the annual budgeting, forecasting, and business planning process in alignment with corporate goals.
2. Operational Excellence
- Oversee daily operations of the manufacturing facilities, including production, quality, engineering, and supply chain.
- Ensure production efficiency, high product quality, and optimal use of resources.
- Implement continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
3. Commercial & Market Development
- Build strong relationships with customers, distributors, and international partners to expand market presence.
- Collaborate with commercial teams to define pricing strategies, product portfolio, and go-to-market plans.
- Monitor industry trends, market dynamics, and competitor activity.
4. Financial Management
- Manage P&L, ensuring revenue growth, cost control, and return on investment.
- Monitor financial performance and implement corrective actions as needed.
- Work closely with finance teams to ensure timely and accurate reporting.
5. Compliance, Safety & Sustainability
- Ensure full compliance with environmental, health, safety, and regulatory standards.
- Champion sustainability initiatives and ensure operations adhere to global best practices for responsible sourcing and production.
- Promote ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) values across the organization.
6. Leadership & Talent Development
- Build and lead a high-performing senior leadership team.
- Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous learning.
- Identify and develop future leaders from within the organization.
Requirements:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Business, or a related field. Master’s degree (MBA or MSc) preferred.
- Experience:
- Minimum 15 years of relevant experience in the palm oil, oleochemical, or chemical manufacturing industry.
- At least 5 years in a senior executive or plant leadership role with full P&L responsibility.
- Language: Proficiency in English is essential. Bahasa Indonesia is highly desirable.
- Technical & Leadership Skills:
- Deep knowledge of oleochemical processes, technologies, and market dynamics.
- Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and change management skills.
- Excellent financial acumen and commercial orientation.
- Proven ability to manage stakeholder expectations and lead multicultural teams.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working in North Sumatera or similar industrial regions in Indonesia.
- Familiarity with global quality standards (e.g., ISO, GMP, HACCP, RSPO).
- Exposure to international trade, export regulations, and customer management.