Production Manager - Coconut Refinery

We are seeking an experienced and highly analytical Production & Operations Manager to oversee and optimize the daily operations of a coconut oil refinery plant. This role is instrumental in ensuring that all production processes run efficiently, meet quality standards, and comply with safety and operational procedures. The ideal candidate will have a deep technical understanding of coconut oil production from raw material processing to final output and will be skilled in data-driven decision-making to drive continuous improvements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and supervise the entire production process, ensuring all SOPs are adhered to for quality, safety, and operational efficiency.

• Implement and monitor Q&A protocols to prevent in-factory fraud and ensure product consistency.

• Optimize throughput time while maintaining high-quality production standards.

• Oversee plant maintenance schedules to minimize downtime and ensure optimal equipment performance.

• Manage and develop the production team, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and high performance.

• Analyze production data to identify inefficiencies, propose corrective actions, and implement cost-saving initiatives.

• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations in all operational processes.

• Collaborate with the COO on strategic projects to enhance operational capacity and scalability.

• Apply technical expertise, including understanding the chemistry and formulas behind coconut oil refining processes, to solve production challenges.

Requirements:

• Bachelors degree from a top university in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Food Technology, or a related field.

• 7-10 years of proven work experience in a coconut oil refinery plant with solid exposure to production, operations, and quality management.

• Strong track record in working with industry-leading companies (experience from the same industry preferred).

• In-depth technical knowledge of coconut oil manufacturing, including process chemistry, quality assurance, and operational best practices.

• Highly analytical, detail-oriented, and data-driven with strong problem-solving skills.

• Hands-on leadership style with the ability to work on the production floor when needed.

• Proven ability to minimize throughput time, enhance efficiency, and maintain consistent product quality.

• Excellent leadership and team management skills with the ability to inspire and develop teams.

• Resilient, hardworking, and results-oriented with a strong sense of ownership.