Plant Head

Job Summary

Head of Factory Operations

You will be responsible for commissioning the plant, procuring state-of-the-art machinery, securing necessary certifications, and establishing a high-performance culture. Once operational, you will oversee the P&L, supply chain optimization, and ensure consistent product quality.

Key Responsibilities

1. Factory Setup & Project Management (Phase I)

• End-to-End Execution:

  Lead the complete project lifecycle of the factory setup, from layout design and civil work supervision to utility planning and final commissioning.

• Machine Procurement:

  Scout, evaluate, and negotiate with global and domestic vendors for pet food processing machinery (extruders, dryers, coating systems, and packaging lines).

• Installation & Commissioning:

  Oversee the installation of machinery, ensuring all equipment meets performance guarantees and safety standards before handover.

2. Manufacturing Operations & Process Excellence

• Production Planning:

  Develop and execute production schedules to meet sales forecasts while minimizing downtime and waste.

• Best Practices:

  Implement

  Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)

  , Lean Manufacturing, and 5S methodologies to ensure the highest standards of hygiene and efficiency.

• Maintenance Strategy:

  Establish a preventive maintenance schedule to maximize asset reliability and longevity.

3. Sourcing, Supply Chain & P&L Management

• Sourcing Optimization:

  Oversee the procurement of raw materials and packaging. Balance quality requirements with cost-efficiency to optimize the

  Cost of Goods Sold (COGS)

  .

• P&L Ownership:

  Manage the factory's operational budget, tracking key financial metrics, yields, and wastage to ensure the unit is profitable.

• Inventory Management:

  Optimize inventory levels for raw materials and finished goods to improve working capital without affecting availability.

4. Quality Assurance & Regulatory Compliance

• Certifications:

  Lead the process to obtain and maintain critical certifications, including

  ISO 22000, HACCP, BRCGS (Food Safety), and FSSAI

  .

• Regulatory Adherence:

  Ensure the facility complies with all local environmental, labor, and safety laws, as well as specific pet food industry regulations.

• Quality Control:

  Establish a robust QC lab and testing protocols to ensure every batch meets nutritional and safety standards before dispatch.

Candidate Profile

Education

• Bachelor's degree in

  Food Technology or Mechanical Engineering

• Master's degree in Operations Management or MBA is highly preferred.