Plant Manager

Key Responsibilities

Plant Operations & Delivery

• Lead all production and internal logistics operations from goods receipt, material storage, and internal handling through processing, packing, and dispatch
• Deliver production commitments in line with agreed volume, quality, cost, and service targets
• Review production progress daily and lead resolution of operational issues

Manufacturing Excellence & Continuous Improvement

• Drive continuous improvement across production and internal logistics using TPM and Manufacturing Excellence methodologies
• Achieve annual committed Manufacturing Excellence savings
• Identify and address bottlenecks, constraints, and improvement opportunities to optimise asset utilisation and reduce waste
• Review production performance KPIs weekly through structured Kaizen forums

Performance, Planning & Cost Control

• Achieve operational performance (OP) targets for Volume, OEE, OR, and Cost
• Define key capacity parameters and constraints to support short‑ and long‑term production planning
• Prepare, manage, and control the factory operating plan and budget
• Control manufacturing conversion and internal logistics costs (labour, waste, rework) against agreed targets
• Partner with Supply Planning to manage production prioritisation, resource planning, and future growth requirements

Quality, Safety, Health & Environment

• Ensure all products meet Unilever quality standards and specifications through robust operator‑based quality systems
• Work closely with the Site Quality Manager to ensure ongoing quality compliance, reviewed through monthly quality circles
• Ensure a clean, safe, and compliant working environment in line with Unilever Corporate and Business Unit SHEQ standards
• Lead the implementation and maintenance of ISO 9000 / 14000 / 18000 systems
• Design, implement, and monitor systems for safe chemical handling, process safety, and people safety
• Ensure appropriate safety training programs are in place and fully embedded

Engineering, Maintenance & Asset Care

• Partner with the Site Engineer to ensure factory capacity is sufficient to meet commitments and growth plans
• Work closely with the Maintenance Manager to ensure high reliability and efficiency of production and internal logistics equipment
• Maximise asset effectiveness through strong maintenance and reliability practices

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

• Coordinate the availability of resources and inputs from internal functions and third‑party partners
• Work in close liaison with Engineering, Quality, Supply Planning, and Maintenance teams to ensure operational alignment
• Ensure timely and effective implementation of new product launches and innovations

Leadership & People Development

• Lead and develop Production and Internal Logistics teams to deliver world‑class operations
• Build strong team‑working through cross‑functional projects and team‑building initiatives
• Identify, develop, and strengthen leadership capability within the plant
• Delegate accountability appropriately to drive ownership and performance
• Assess capability gaps and implement training and development programs across production and internal logistics teams
• Manage performance effectively, including addressing poor performance through courageous conversations

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ management experience in Supply Chain or Manufacturing operations

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical or Mechanical)

• Hands‑on experience in World Class Manufacturing (WCM) / TPM
• Strong FMCG manufacturing or fast‑moving production environment experience
• Experience working with SAP ERP systems
• Strong budget and cost management capability
• Experience with IR / EE practices
• Capability in performance management and managing poor performance
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to lead courageous conversations
• Solid understanding of SHEQ standards and systems
• Demonstrated application of the 7 Key Skills of Management Effectiveness

Why Join Unilever?

• Work for one of the world’s most purpose-led and trusted brands.

• Drive meaningful impact on business capability and performance.

• Be part of a supportive, culture‑driven environment that values people and growth.

• Enjoy opportunities for regional exposure and professional development.