New
1 week ago
Section Head - Soaps and Detergents
Adept Systems, Management Consultants
Management & Business Development
Retail, Fashion & FMCG
KSh
Less than 15,000
Easy Apply
Job Summary
This involves leading the daily operations of the soap finishing lines (Mazzoni) and the liquid mixing/filling sections, ensuring optimal output, cost efficiency, and superior product quality. This role requires extensive technical expertise in high-volume soap production using Mazzoni plants.
- Minimum Qualification : Bachelors
- Experience Level : Senior level
- Experience Length : 15 years
Job Description/Requirements
Job Purpose
Reporting to the Production Manager, the Section Head, based in Kilifi, is a seasoned leader responsible for overseeing the entire manufacturing operation for Laundry Soap, Bathing (Toilet) Soap, and Hand Wash liquids. This involves leading the daily operations of the soap finishing lines (Mazzoni) and the liquid mixing/filling sections, ensuring optimal output, cost efficiency, and superior product quality. This role requires extensive technical expertise in high-volume soap production using Mazzoni plants.
Key Responsibilities
A. Production Planning & Operations Management
● Lead the daily operations of the soap finishing lines and liquid sections to meet monthly production targets (Tonnage/Volume).
● Coordinate with the Production Manager to create production schedules that minimize changeover downtime.
● Oversee the entire lifecycle from raw material handling (soap noodles/oils) to mixing, milling, extruding, stamping, and wrapping.
● Oversee the formulation, mixing, and automated filling lines for hand wash liquids, ensuring correct viscosity and pH balance.
B. Technical & Maintenance (Mazzoni Expertise)
● Ensure maximum efficiency and machine uptime of Mazzoni equipment, including the saponification plant, Vacuum Dryers, Simplex/Duplex Plodders, and High-Speed Cutters/Stampers.
● Act as the primary technical troubleshooter for mechanical or formulation issues causing cracking, grit, or weight variation in soap bars.
● Implement a rigorous Preventive Maintenance (PM) schedule to extend the life of plant machinery and reduce breakdown hours.
● Conduct technical training for operators on the specific settings and care of Mazzoni units.
C. Quality Assurance & Formulation
● Ensure all products meet strict quality parameters, including TFM (Total Fatty Matter), Moisture content, and Mush testing.
● Manage recipes and formulations to optimise raw material costs without compromising quality (e.g., controlling filler percentages in laundry soap).
● Collaborate with the lab to test new fragrances, colours, and formulations for hand wash and premium toilet soaps (R&D Support).
D. Inventory & Supply Chain
● Oversee the inventory of raw materials (Oils, Caustic Soda, Silicates, and Fragrances) and packaging materials to prevent stock-outs.
● Implement strict controls to minimise process scrap and rework, maintaining lower wastages.
E. EHS & Team Management
● Enforce strict GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and safety protocols regarding chemical handling and machine safety.
● Mentor and manage Shift Engineers, Supervisors, Quality Chemists, and floor operators (Workforce Management).
Qualifications
● B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Chemistry, or B.Tech./B.E. in Chemical Engineering.
● Exposure to ISO standards.
● Minimum 15 years of experience in Soap & Detergent manufacturing.
● At least 5 years in a Plant Head or Production Manager role.
● Mandatory: Extensive technical knowledge of Mazzoni soap lines (Finishing lines required; Saponification knowledge is a strong advantage).
● Proven experience managing both Solid Bar (Laundry/Toilet) and Liquid (Hand wash/Dish wash) production lines.
Key Skills and Competencies
● Deep understanding of Soap Chemistry (Saponification, Neutralisation, Drying).
● Ability to troubleshoot Plodder screws, Vacuum spray chambers, and Chilled water systems.
● Strong leadership with the ability to manage unionised or large labour forces.
● Proficiency in SAP or ERP systems for production planning.
How to Apply
Visit our website to submit your application by Friday, 12th December 2025.
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