Reporting to the Technical Director
Roles reporting to this position:  Production Manager, Logistics Manager, Maintenance Manager
Purpose of the Role:
The purpose of an Operational Manager/ General Manager to oversee the Logistics, Production, and Maintenance departments in our manufacturing environment. This individual will be a strategic leader with a hands-on approach, responsible for driving operational excellence and ensuring the seamless integration of our ERP system across all key operational areas. The role will also include regular reporting to the Technical Director providing updates on performance metrics, and continuously improving efficiency in the manufacturing and logistics processes
Occupational and Decision Making Level:
Top Management:
Controls the functional integration of the business. Determines the overall strategy and objectives of the business. Directors the company into the future. The nature of the work is long-term. Sign-off on policy or strategy
Outputs/Key Performance Areas:
Operational Leadership & Accountability:

Full accountability for the management of the Production, Maintenance, Warehouse, and Logistics departments in relation to the manufacturing process.
Oversee day-to-day operations while ensuring smooth coordination between departments to meet production and operational goals.
Supervise the Production Manager, Maintenance Manager, and Logistics Manager who will report directly to this role

ERP Systems & IT Integration:

Lead efforts to ensure that the ERP system is fully optimized for operations, manufacturing, and dispatch processes.
Work closely with the IT department to ensure the ERP system ties into finance, inventory, and order management for improved efficiency.
Regularly assess the effectiveness of the ERP system and implement improvements as needed.

Business Planning & Performance Management:

Contribute to the development of annual and long-term business plans, aligning with company objectives.
Forecast performance against key performance indicators (KPIs), ensuring targets are met and exceeded.
Develop business cases for key activities and projects to drive growth and operational efficiency.
Estimate the financial and human resources required to achieve performance targets.
Manage and report on departmental performance, holding direct reports accountable for achieving their objectives.
Take corrective action as needed to ensure that business goals are met

Budgeting & Cost Management:

Oversee the development and execution of capital project budgets, including plant upgrades and modifications.
Ensure costs are managed efficiently, implementing cost-saving initiatives where applicable.
Implement a cost-monitoring system, including utilities such as water and electricity, and manage associated expenses

Operational Compliance & Risk Management:

Monitor and review departmental performance and behaviors to ensure compliance with company policies and relevant regulatory codes.
Stay informed of changes in legislation and ensure the organization remains compliant with all applicable regulations, including FSSC22000 and OHSA standards
Implement and manage change within the organization, ensuring smooth transitions and minimal disruptions

Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization:

Lead continuous improvement initiatives to drive productivity, reduce costs, and eliminate waste across the organization.
Drive Lean Six Sigma initiatives to streamline processes, enhance quality control, and optimize overall operational performance.
Monitor capacity utilization and propose changes to improve efficiency and reduce inefficiencies.
Ensure Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE) is maximized by identifying and addressing areas of improvement

Project Management & Principal Relationships:

Oversee and manage key technical projects, including the formation and management of project teams to deliver objectives.
Manage and maintain principal relationships within the operational area and identify opportunities for system improvements that enhance relationship management

Team Development & Capability Building:

Identify individual team development needs and provide guidance for career development and training.
 Ensure that all relevant training records and invoicing are submitted in a timely manner to HR.
Foster a culture of continuous learning and high performance within the teams

Key Result Areas (KRAs):

Contribute to and influence the overall manufacturing strategy, ensuring alignment with company goals.
Ensure the efficient management of raw materials, packaging, and products throughout the production cycle.
Monitor production progress against the production plan and implement necessary adjustments to ensure targets are met.
Optimize plant performance to achieve prescribed operational efficiencies and eliminate unaccounted losses.
Plan resources and daily priorities in alignment with the production plan.
Monitor and analyze inefficiencies, capacity utilization, and OEE, driving improvements where necessary

Reporting:

Provide monthly and quarterly feedback to the Technical Director on operational stats, progress, and areas for improvement.
Ensure regular and transparent communication with senior management regarding performance metrics and ongoing projects