Production Optimization Specialist

We are seeking an experienced FMCG Production Optimization Specialist to strengthen the Siavonga site operations of our processing, freezing and frozen storage facility. This role acts as the strategic right hand to the Site Operations Director and serves as the key driver of production scale-up, value-added product development, and international certification readiness. It further bridges operational execution with long-term strategic growth, ensuring the facility increases output, efficiency, and compliance with global food safety standards.

This is a unique opportunity to work in a high-growth African FMCG operation where operational decisions have direct, visible impact. Living and working in Siavonga on the beautiful Lake Kariba, offers an exceptional quality of life with a mix of outdoor lifestyle, community culture, and a meaningful career challenge. The post is ideal for a candidate seeking international operations experience, emerging market exposure, and the ability to build systems from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities & Critical Success Measures

Key Responsibilities:

1. Optimization of Processing

Lead the operational roadmap to scale processing volumes sustainably while safeguarding product quality and cost efficiency.

Drive the transition from commodity processing to higher-margin, value-added product categories, working closely with commercial teams.

Execute the site certification roadmap for HACCP, ISO 22000, and BAP, including gap assessments, SOP development, internal audits, and certification body engagement.

Serve as deputy to the Site Operations Director, capable of taking full operational leadership during absence, crisis situations, or critical decision-making moments.

Own CAPEX and technology-upgrade projects for processing and freezing lines through cost-benefit analysis, equipment selection, vendor coordination, FAT, and commissioning.

Drive manufacturing process improvements to increase capacity, efficiency, reliability, and cost performance.

Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma tools to reduce waste and streamline operations.

Conduct and review safety risk assessments, and equipment design evaluations while overseeing contractors and safety tasks.

Support and improve preventive and predictive maintenance programs, breakdown analysis, and recurrence prevention.

Develop and maintain standardized process documentation, visual management tools, and production performance standards.

Promote and uphold food safety, quality, and health and safety requirements across all improvement initiatives.

2. Food Processing Plant Management

Overall Management: serve as the critical link between high-level strategic management and daily, on-the-ground execution.

People Management: Manage on a day-to-day basis various teams of technicians, and support staff to achieve production goals by ensuring compliance with applicable company procedures and escalating any queries or concerns to the relevant stakeholders.

Quality Control: Monitor enforcement of quality control procedures to provide assurance that products meet international safety and quality specifications and ensure that any quality issues are escalated to the Site

Operations Director.

Budgeting and Cost Control: Provide inputs and assist with the preparation of the plants budget and put in place measures to monitor expenditure and to reduce costs.

Feed Logistics and stock management: Work with suppliers and logistics teams to manage the supply and distribution of raw materials and finished products to optimize stock levels and mitigate risks of shortages and ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.

Functional Competencies

Operational Management: Demonstrate effective management and development skills to lead diverse teams, ensuring a motivated and high-performing workforce.

Conflict Resolution: Ability to resolve conflicts in a professional and decisive way while being sensitive for cultural context.

Comprehensive Systems Understanding: Maintain a thorough understanding of all systems and structures within the teams to facilitate effective operations and communication.

Continuous Improvement Focus: Utilize analytical skills to assess current processes and implement improvements, driving operational excellence and innovation.

Proficiency in Technology: Demonstrate strong computer literacy to leverage technology effectively in enhancing productivity and operational efficiency.

Data Analysis: Strong analytical skills and experience with market data, sales analysis, and KPI monitoring.

Technical Support: Knowledge of FMCG product life cycle management and quality standards.

People Skills: Experience managing cross-functional projects and teams.

Education

Bachelors degree in food science, engineering, business, marketing, or related field. Masters degree preferred.

Experience

Minimum 5 years of experience in FMCG product management, R&D, or optimization roles and project management.