Factory Manager – Food Industry (Macadamia)

Job Summary: The Factory Manager is responsible for overseeing the production and processing of macadamia nuts, macadamia nuts value added products, and other food products made for sale to customers in the company’s factory, ensuring high-quality standards of all final products. The company’s goal is to be number one in the quality of the food products produced in its processing facilities in its industry sector in Kenya, notwithstanding its rural location. The incumbent will maintain, develop, and manage an internal quality system that always meets or exceeds the food quality and safety standards and expectations of its international, and national customers. She/he will have a strong understanding of food processing, food safety regulations, and quality assurance backed by a solid track record gained in a demanding working environment. Experience in leading a team to secure and manage international food safety certification such as HACCP, FSSC 22000, or BRC is required. The incumbent will managee a team of production workers. She/he will build and train a team of quality assurance specialists and will collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth operations and timely delivery of finished products that exceed customer expectations. The position suits a young and practical professional who enjoys making a difference working in a rural community setting.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Manage the processing and production of macadamia nuts in the factory, ensuring that all processes are efficient, safe, and compliant with current national and international food safety and quality standards.

2. Implement an effective receiving process for all raw materials to ensure conformity with standards required for the high quality of finished products from the company’s production facilities.

3. Monitor and evaluate the quality of macadamia nuts at various stages of production, from raw materials to finished products, and implement corrective actions to the process as needed.

4. Develop and maintain quality control systems and procedures, including documentation, monitoring, and reporting to ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards.

5. Collaborate with other departments, such as orchards, raw materials supply, procurement, logistics, and marketing, to ensure timely delivery of finished products and customer satisfaction.

6. Develop and maintain a strong safety culture in the factory, ensuring that all workers are trained in safety protocols and adhere to safety guidelines.

7. Manage, lead, and motivate a team of production workers and build and train an effective team of quality assurance specialists, including participating in hiring, training, and performance evaluations.

8. Continuously evaluate and improve production processes to optimize efficiency, reduce waste, and increase product quality.

9. Manage and maintain each production equipment, ensuring that all equipment is properly calibrated, maintained and serviced according to schedule, and performs their functions with accuracy.

10. Monitor and analyze production data, identifying areas for improvement and implementing strategies to increase efficiency and reduce waste.

11. Conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure that the facility and production processes are in compliance with all relevant regulations and standards.

12. Investigate and resolve any quality-related issues that arise during production or with the finished product

13. Prepare reports and provide regular updates to management on production and quality control activities

Requirements:

1. Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.

2. Minimum of 5 years of experience in food processing and quality control, preferably in the macadamia and/or nut processing industry.

3. Strong knowledge of food safety and quality regulations, including HACCP, Good Manufacturing Practices.

4. Experience in implementing an international food safety standard such as FSSC 22000 and preparing product shipments for various export markets.

5. Experience managing production teams and leading process improvement initiatives.

6. Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and manage a team.

7. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

8. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify areas for improvement and implement effective solutions.

9. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software applications.

10. Knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles

11. Honest with a stable character with a reputation for integrity.

12. Does not smoke, drink alcohol, or use drugs.