Plant Manager (Seafood)

Role & responsibilities

Operational Leadership:

• Manage entire plant operations
• Plan and execute production schedules to meet business targets and export deadlines.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) including throughput, yields, downtime, productivity, and labor efficiency.

Quality & Compliance:

• Ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations: HACCP, GMP, SSOP, ISO 22000, BRC, etc.
• Liaise with quality assurance teams to maintain high product quality and manage audits (internal & external).

Team & Resource Management:

• Lead, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary team including production, maintenance, quality, and logistics staff.
• Drive workforce planning, labor management, skill development, and health & safety practices.
• Foster a performance-oriented culture focused on accountability and results.

Cost & Efficiency Control:

• Oversee budgeting, cost control, and inventory management to optimize operational expenditure.
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance plant performance.

Equipment & Maintenance:

• Ensure preventive maintenance and minimal downtime of all machinery and utilities (blast freezers, IQF lines, ice machines, etc.).
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams for upgrades and equipment planning.

Stakeholder Coordination:

• Coordinate closely with procurement, marketing, logistics, and compliance teams for smooth workflow.

Provide timely reports and updates to senior management on plant performance, issues, and opportunities.

Preferred candidate profile

• Bachelors degree in Food Technology, Fisheries Science, Marine Engineering, or Industrial Management. Master’s degree/MBA is a plus.
• Minimum 8–12 years of experience in seafood processing, with at least 3–5 years in a senior leadership/plant management role.
• Deep understanding of seafood processing techniques (shrimp, cephalopods, finfish – frozen, chilled, value-added).
• Strong working knowledge of international food safety standards and export regulations.
• Experience managing large teams in a high-volume, fast-paced plant environment.
• Proficiency in MS Office.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and crisis management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines, especially during seasonal peaks.