Head of Food Production & Operations

About the role

We are seeking a senior leader to develop and execute the manufacturing strategy for a fast‑growing Nigerian consumer‑goods company. The role will oversee production planning, operational excellence, product innovation and safety across multiple manufacturing sites.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute the company’s manufacturing strategy aligned with growth objectives.
• Lead production planning and execution to deliver products on time, in full, and to specification.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives across all facilities.
• Improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), production efficiency, labour productivity and throughput.
• Optimize capacity to support new stores, increased demand and expansion.
• Establish standardized operating procedures and performance dashboards.
• Identify and mitigate operational, quality and supply‑chain risks; maintain business continuity plans.
• Promote workplace safety, lead incident investigations and ensure compliance with occupational health & safety standards.
• Build and lead high‑performing production teams; develop succession plans and coach managers.
• Support R&D and commercial teams to commercialise new products and improve speed‑to‑market.
• Collaborate with supply‑chain, procurement and logistics to ensure product availability and minimise stock‑outs.
• Drive cost‑improvement initiatives, monitor budgets and identify automation opportunities.
• Champion food‑safety culture and ensure compliance with NAFDAC, SON, HACCP, GMP, ISO standards.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Industrial/Production/Manufacturing Engineering or a related field.
• MBA or Master’s in Operations Management, Manufacturing, Supply Chain or Business Administration (preferred).
• 12–15 years progressive experience in food manufacturing or FMCG operations.
• At least 7 years in a senior manufacturing leadership role overseeing multiple production lines or sites.
• Proven track record of operational excellence, productivity, quality improvement and cost optimisation.
• Professional certifications in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, HACCP, ISO 22000 or GMP (highly desirable).

Required skills

• Lean Manufacturing
• Six Sigma
• HACCP
• ISO 22000
• GMP