The posting
Our client, a reputable manufacturing company based in Ethiopia, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Factory Production Manager to lead and optimize daily manufacturing operations. The role ensures production runs at full design capacity, consistently meeting quality and safety standards, while providing strategic leadership in workforce management, safety compliance, and workplace development. Key performance outcomes include cost efficiency, product conformity, on-plan packing, minimal quality deviations, and alignment with core manufacturing metrics such as capacity, availability, and efficiency. The successful candidate will also foster a positive work environment by reducing staff absenteeism, grievances, and disciplinary actions. Responsibilities: Plan production (labour, materials, and machines) according to the production schedule and confirm its feasibility with the Supply Chain Manager. Ensure the flow of production through the factory is balanced (line balancing) and that equipment operates at rated speed. Manage and ensure throughput and labour standards are met. Develop throughput and labour standards, and provide input to Rough Cut Capacity and Mass Balance Analysis. Utilise mass balances developed by Technical Managers to identify and monitor process losses and take corrective action where deviations occur. Develop, implement, and manage systems for recording downtime. Conduct root cause analysis of downtime and process loss deviations, and implement corrective measures to prevent recurrence. Manage and implement temporary labour arrangements. Allocate labour based on throughput and quality requirements. Build team morale, conduct performance reviews and appraisals, identify training needs, and provide informal coaching and guidance to staff. Understand product and process specifications. Monitor product quality and process measurements, conduct quality audits, and generate NCRs for products out of specification. Take action on non-conforming products based on Unit Manager feedback and ensure all products are produced according to the approved recipe. Ensure staff are aware of quality issues and maintain adherence to approved GMP practices. Develop, implement, and manage factory-specific and generic Best Operating Practices (BOPs). Oversee specifications and usage of production-related materials, such as cleaning equipment, and contribute feedback on cultivar evaluation. Implement and manage product safety systems including in-line cleaning, hygiene, sanitation, pest control, and HACCP protocols. Lead the factory's Safety System, ensure adherence to safety procedures, and conduct accident investigations when required. Understand and manage the Maintenance Strategy across first-, second-, and third-line levels (refer to strategy documentation). Allocate artisans to tasks, follow up on maintenance activities, and prepare and control the maintenance budget. Implement and manage Workplace Development Programs (WDP), such as 20 Keys and Production Planning (PP). Implement and manage systems including Shift Handover, Solid Waste Disposal, and Short Interval Control (Visual Display). Manage outsourced contracts where applicable to support factory operations. Manage finished goods stock levels and oversee the return process to ensure compliance and traceability. Implement and manage Key 1 housekeeping standards to maintain a clean, organised, and efficient working environment. Lead and manage Small Group Activities aimed at continuous improvement, employee engagement, and performance enhancement across factory teams. Requirements Minimum 5 years managing full factory operations including planning, throughput, quality, and labour management. Strong knowledge of GMP, HACCP, safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance in manufacturing. Proven leadership skills to coach teams, conduct appraisals, manage labour, and drive workplace development. Skilled in root cause analysis for production issues and implementing effective corrective actions. Experienced with production planning tools, maintenance strategies, BOPs, and continuous improvement methods like Lean. Excellent communicator able to collaborate across departments and engage all levels of staff and management.
