Chief Operating Officer – Cocoa Processing Plant

About the role

The Chief Operating Officer will provide strategic and operational leadership for a cocoa processing plant, driving efficient, profitable, safe and sustainable operations across the entire value chain. Reporting to senior management, the COO will ensure the plant meets production, quality and commercial targets while supporting long‑term growth.

Key responsibilities

• Lead overall plant operations to achieve production, financial and operational goals.
• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with business objectives and growth plans.
• Drive efficiency, productivity improvements and continuous process optimisation across all departments.
• Oversee the Plant Manager and ensure end‑to‑end cocoa processing activities, including bean sourcing, roasting, grinding, pressing, powder production, packaging, storage and distribution.
• Monitor operational KPIs such as yield, capacity utilisation, cost efficiency, waste reduction and product quality.
• Manage budgeting, cost control and financial performance of the plant.
• Collaborate with finance and commercial teams on pricing, procurement strategy and commercial planning.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in industrial or agro‑processing operations.
• Strong track record of achieving production and financial targets.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large, multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience with safety, compliance and sustainability standards in manufacturing.

Required skills

• Operational strategy development
• Production planning and optimisation
• Financial budgeting and cost management
• Supply‑chain and logistics coordination
• Quality assurance and regulatory compliance

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead a high‑impact cocoa processing operation.
• Competitive remuneration package.
• Dynamic, mission‑driven environment focused on sustainable agriculture.