Operations Manager (Manufacturing Company)

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Operations Manager to oversee and manage the operations of a manufacturing company located in Mlolongo, Kenya. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operations management, engineering, and business administration, and will be responsible for ensuring efficient and effective production processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the manufacturing plant to ensure efficiency and productivity.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and procedures to optimize performance.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and quality control measures.
• Manage budgets, forecasts, and financial reports to ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with engineering, logistics, and project management teams to streamline processes.
• Lead and mentor a team of professionals to achieve operational goals and objectives.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement innovative solutions.
• Coordinate with suppliers and vendors to ensure timely delivery of materials and services.

Operational Strategy & Execution

• Develop, implement, and monitor operational strategies that align with company objectives and support growth targets.
• Drive operational excellence by ensuring optimal use of resources, reduction of waste, and improvement of manufacturing processes.
• Translate sales forecasts into actionable production and logistics plans to ensure timely order fulfillment.

Manufacturing & Production Oversight

• Manage daily production activities, ensuring production targets, quality standards, and safety protocols are met.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives in manufacturing using Six Sigma, Kaizen, or DMAIC methodologies.
• Monitor machine utilization, capacity planning, and preventative maintenance schedules.

Supply Chain & Logistics Management

• Oversee inventory management, procurement, warehousing, and distribution operations.
• Optimize supply chain processes to reduce lead times and improve cost-efficiency.
• Collaborate with sales and procurement teams to ensure raw material availability and delivery timelines.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations team, including production supervisors, quality assurance, and logistics personnel.
• Foster a performance-oriented culture through clear KPIs, coaching, and capacity building.
• Ensure compliance with labor, health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Technology & Systems

• Leverage ERP and CRM systems for operational planning, tracking, and performance monitoring.
• Use data analytics tools to generate actionable insights and support data-driven decision-making.
• Collaborate with IT and finance teams to improve reporting and cost tracking systems.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure adherence to ISO standards, internal policies, and industry regulations.
• Oversee the implementation of robust quality control systems and compliance frameworks.
• Drive initiatives to meet customer satisfaction, audit requirements, and operational certifications.

Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
• 5 - 8 years' experience in operations management within the manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of engineering principles and logistics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to analyze data and make informed decisions.
• Proficient in project management and technical aspects of manufacturing operations.
• Prior experience in a sales-driven operations role within a manufacturing company is highly preferred
• Strong proficiency in ERP and CRM systems (e.g., SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, Odoo)
• Excellent analytical and project management skills with hands-on experience in data analytics and performance monitoring
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities with a strategic mindset
• Certification in Six Sigma, Kaizen, DMAIC, or Lean Management is required; Lean Management will be an added advantage

Perks and Benefits

• Competitive salary of Kshs. 200,000.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.