Head of Operations (M/F/D)

Overview

The Operations Manager will lead the end‑to‑end chemical production process-from raw material issuance to finished goods shipment. This role ensures safe, compliant, efficient, and high‑quality production while driving process optimisation, leading operational teams, and managing equipment performance. The position requires strong leadership, problem‑solving ability, and deep knowledge of chemical processes and regulatory standards.

Role Responsibilities

• Oversee daily plant operations to meet production, quality, and safety targets.
• Optimise processes, reduce costs, and enhance product quality through continuous improvement.
• Partner with maintenance to minimise downtime and ensure equipment reliability.
• Lead, train, and develop operational staff, ensuring strong communication and team alignment.
• Prepare and analyse production reports; support budgeting, forecasting, and senior management reviews.
• Collaborate with Innovation, QEHS, Supply Chain, and Engineering to enable new products and process improvements.
• Drive clear communication through team meetings and daily line engagement.
• Conduct ongoing process analysis to identify efficiency opportunities.
• Ensure product quality compliance and resolve quality‑related issues.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and regulatory requirements; perform regular safety audits.
• Maintain accurate production records and share insights with leadership.
• Ensure full compliance with QEHS policies and support relevant initiatives (e.g., 6S, PDCA, KPI monitoring).
• Manage and safeguard precious metal protocols and overall site security with senior leadership.
• Engage in continuous learning and development activities.
• Fulfil other reasonable duties as required.

Ideal Candidates

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field (Master's preferred).
• Minimum 5 years' experience in chemical or industrial production, with at least 3 years in a management role.
• Strong understanding of chemical processes, equipment, safety standards, and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities.
• Ability to interpret operating procedures, safety documentation, and maintenance instructions.
• Strong communication, leadership, and teamwork skills.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.

Additional Info

• The role carries authority to make decisions, assign resources, delegate tasks, and enforce operational policies.
• Extensive SAP authorisations are required across inventory, maintenance planning, production engineering, warehouse management, MRP control, purchasing, and product master data.
• The position contributes actively to continuous improvement, safety culture, and organisational learning.
• Responsibilities may expand over time based on operational needs.