Plant Deputy General Manager

Denka Singapore Pte Ltd; Singapore; On-site; SGD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading chemicals company based in Singapore is seeking a seasoned professional to manage their acetylene black production facility. The role requires overseeing plant operations, ensuring safety and compliance, and leading a strong management team. Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, extensive experience in manufacturing operations (12-15 years), and leadership skills. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to drive operational excellence in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12–15 years of experience in shift-based manufacturing operations.
• At least 10 years in leadership or managerial roles managing production teams.
• Knowledge of carbon black or specialty chemical production technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee plant operations to meet production targets.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Support effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders.

Skills

Strong leadership and people management skills

Manufacturing operations understanding

Ability to drive operational efficiency

Interpersonal and communication skills

Basic proficiency in Japanese

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering

Advanced degrees or professional certifications

Job description

Job Description

Responsible for leading and managing all aspects of the acetylene black production facility to ensure safe, compliant, efficient, and cost‑effective operations. This includes responsibility for production performance, health, safety and environmental compliance, people leadership, continuous improvement, and alignment with corporate goals.

The role provides comprehensive support to the Plant General Manager across all aspects of plant operations and works closely with cross‑functional teams to achieve business and operational objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead and oversee plant operations to meet production targets, quality standards, and cost optimization objectives.
• Develop, implement, and monitor production schedules, processes, and performance metrics.
• Ensure plant efficiency and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Champion a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with all applicable health, safety, and environmental regulations and internal policies.

• Conduct risk assessments, incident investigations, and enforce safety protocols.

People & Team Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop plant management teams, supervisors, and operators to build capability and performance.

• Drive a positive work culture and foster a collaborative, accountable work environment.

Quality & Business Performance

• Ensure product quality standards are met in accordance with customer and regulatory requirements.
• Support preparation and management of operating budgets, monitor costs, and drive cost optimization initiatives.
• Coordinate with cross‑functional functions (e.g. Maintenance, Engineering, QA/QC, Supply Chain) to optimize overall plant performance.

Continuous Improvement

• Lead and support operational excellence and continuous improvement programs.
• Identify process bottlenecks and implement corrective actions to improve efficiency and reliability.

Reporting & Communication

• Provide regular reports on plant performance, KPIs, key issues, and improvement plans to senior management and Japan headquarters.
• Support effective communication and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Job Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Advanced degrees or professional certifications in engineering or operations management will be an advantage.

Experience

• Minimum 12–15 years of experience in shift‑based manufacturing operations, preferably in petrochemical or chemical manufacturing environments, including Major Hazardous Installations.
• At least 10 years of experience in leadership or managerial roles, with proven experience managing production teams and processes.
• Knowledge of carbon black or specialty chemical production technologies will be an advantage.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills, with experience leading operational teams.
• Good understanding of manufacturing operations, process safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Proven ability to drive operational efficiency, continuous improvement, and cost management initiatives.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels of the organization.
• Experience working in multinational or cross‑cultural environments is preferred.
• Basic proficiency in Japanese will be an advantage for communication with Japan headquarters.

Additional Advantages

• Professional certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP).
• Experience with process safety management systems and major accident prevention programs.
• Prior exposure to acetylene or specialty chemical production processes in a shift environment.