The Group Manufacturing Head is responsible for providing strategic leadership and overall direction to all manufacturing facilities of the organization. The role ensures the achievement of production targets, product quality, cost efficiency, operational excellence, food safety, and regulatory compliance across all plants. The incumbent drives continuous improvement initiatives, standardizes manufacturing processes, optimizes resource utilization, and develops a high-performing operations team to support business growth and profitability.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Manufacturing Operations Leadership
- Lead and oversee all manufacturing plants to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective operations.
- Develop and execute manufacturing strategies aligned with the company's business objectives.
- Ensure achievement of production volume, productivity, quality, and service level targets.
- Drive operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives across plants.
Production Planning & Performance Management
- Monitor production performance through established KPIs.
- Review and optimize manufacturing processes to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs.
- Ensure effective utilization of manpower, equipment, and materials.
- Analyze plant performance and implement corrective actions as necessary.
Quality, Food Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with GMP, HACCP, ISO standards, food safety regulations, and government requirements.
- Maintain product quality standards across all manufacturing facilities.
- Collaborate with QA and Regulatory teams to address audit findings and compliance requirements.
- Promote a culture of quality and food safety throughout the organization.
- Lead, coach, and develop Plant Managers and Manufacturing Leaders.
- Strengthen leadership capabilities and succession planning within the manufacturing organization.
- Drive employee engagement, productivity, and accountability.
- Foster a culture focused on safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Cost Management & Budget Control
- Develop and manage manufacturing budgets and operating expenses.
- Identify opportunities for cost reduction and productivity improvements.
- Ensure efficient utilization of resources while maintaining product quality and service standards.
- Lead manufacturing transformation and process improvement projects.
- Support new product commercialization and capacity expansion initiatives.
- Collaborate with Engineering, Supply Chain, QA, Procurement, and R&D on strategic projects.
- Champion Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, Six Sigma, and other productivity programs.
Stakeholder Management
- Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment of manufacturing goals and business priorities.
- Provide regular operational updates and recommendations to senior leadership.
- Serve as the key manufacturing representative during strategic and operational discussions.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Food Technology, or related field.
- Master's Degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or related discipline is an advantage.
Experience
- At least 15 years of progressive manufacturing experience.
- At least 8 years in a senior manufacturing leadership role overseeing multiple plants or large-scale manufacturing operations.
- Strong experience in food manufacturing, FMCG, bakery, or related industries.
- Proven track record in operational excellence, productivity improvement, and organizational leadership.
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong knowledge of Manufacturing Operations, Supply Chain, and Production Planning.
- Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, and Process Optimization.
- Strong financial and budget management skills.
- Knowledge of GMP, HACCP, OSHA, and Food Safety regulations.
- Excellent leadership, coaching, and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.