Head of Plant Operations (Sugar Manufacturing)

We are seeking candidates with proven experience in sugar manufacturing operations.Head of Plant Operations - Sugar ManufacturingSalary: Competitive and based on experienceLocation: Indonesia Keywords: manufacturing operations, food industry, continuous improvement, operational excellence, sustainability, team development, production efficiency, quality assurance, safety compliance, cross-functional collaboration A leading player in the food manufacturing sector is seeking a Plant Manager to oversee daily operations at their high-quality sugar production facility in Indonesia. This is an exceptional opportunity for you to take on a pivotal role within a reputable organisation that is committed to operational excellence, product quality, and sustainability. As Plant Manager, you will be empowered to drive performance improvements, implement best practices, and foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability across all teams. The company offers a dynamic, values-driven work environment where your leadership will directly impact both domestic and international markets. If you are passionate about shaping the future of food manufacturing while enjoying flexible working opportunities and generous training support, this role could be your next career-defining move. Take charge of all plant operations in a respected food manufacturing business with a strong focus on quality, safety, and sustainability, ensuring your expertise makes a tangible difference every day.Enjoy the chance to lead cross-functional teams and champion continuous improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and optimise resource use across the entire production process.Benefit from a supportive workplace culture that values integrity, collaboration, and professional growth-offering you the platform to develop your skills and advance your career in the thriving food industry. What you'll do:As Plant Manager - Sugar Manufacturing, you will play a central role in orchestrating the smooth operation of a major food production facility. Your days will be filled with opportunities to collaborate across departments as you guide teams towards achieving ambitious production targets while upholding rigorous standards for safety and quality. You will be responsible for developing robust strategies that balance customer needs with cost-effectiveness and timely delivery. By fostering an environment where continuous improvement is second nature, you will help shape processes that not only meet but exceed industry benchmarks. Your ability to coach team members and encourage knowledge sharing will be vital in building a dependable workforce dedicated to operational excellence. In addition to managing budgets and maintenance schedules, you will also spearhead sustainability efforts that reinforce the company's commitment to responsible manufacturing practices. Success in this role means consistently delivering outstanding results through teamwork, attention to detail, and an unwavering focus on both people and process. Oversee all aspects of plant operations including production, maintenance, quality control, logistics, and employee safety to ensure seamless day-to-day functioning.Develop comprehensive production plans that align with customer demand, cost targets, and delivery schedules while maintaining high standards of product quality.Champion continuous improvement projects aimed at increasing operational efficiency, minimising waste, and optimising the use of resources throughout the facility.Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations as well as internal corporate standards to maintain a safe and compliant workplace.Monitor key performance indicators related to productivity, quality assurance, and cost management; proactively identify areas for improvement and implement effective solutions.Lead and nurture plant leadership teams by providing coaching, training opportunities, and ongoing performance management to build a collaborative workforce.Oversee preventive and corrective maintenance programmes designed to minimise equipment downtime and maximise operational reliability.Work closely with Supply Chain, Quality Assurance, Finance, and Human Resources departments to ensure alignment between plant operations and broader organisational objectives.Prepare detailed budgets for plant operations including capital expenditure forecasts; manage financial resources responsibly to achieve cost optimisation goals.Drive sustainability initiatives focused on energy efficiency and waste reduction in line with corporate ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) commitments. What you bring:To excel as Plant Manager - Sugar Manufacturing, you will bring an impressive track record of success within large-scale manufacturing environments-ideally gained from roles in the food or fast-moving consumer goods sectors. Your educational background equips you with technical know-how while your extensive hands-on experience has honed your ability to manage complex operations efficiently. You are known for your empathetic approach when working with others; your interpersonal skills enable you to build trust-based relationships across multiple functions. Your deep familiarity with process optimisation tools such as Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma means you are always looking for ways to improve outcomes collaboratively. You thrive when supporting others' growth through mentoring or training initiatives. Your fluency in both Bahasa Indonesia and English ensures seamless communication whether engaging local staff or reporting internationally. Above all else, your passion for nurturing inclusive teams sets you apart as someone who leads by example-always striving for excellence while remaining considerate of those around you. Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, Food Science or a related discipline is required; holding a Master's degree would be highly regarded for this position.A minimum of 10-15 years' experience within manufacturing operations is essential, including at least 5 years spent in a senior leadership capacity such as Plant Manager or equivalent role.Demonstrated background in the food industry-particularly within FMCG or sugar processing-is strongly preferred for this opportunity.Exceptional leadership abilities combined with excellent communication skills are necessary for guiding diverse teams towards shared goals.Comprehensive understanding of manufacturing KPIs along with practical experience implementing Lean Manufacturing principles or Six Sigma methodologies is expected.Proven analytical thinking coupled with sound problem-solving capabilities enables you to address complex challenges effectively.Experience leading cross-functional teams within busy environments ensures you can adapt quickly while maintaining high standards of performance.Fluency in Bahasa Indonesia alongside proficiency in English allows you to communicate clearly across all levels of the organisation. What sets this company apart:This organisation stands out as one of Indonesia's most respected names in food manufacturing thanks to its unwavering commitment to quality products and sustainable business practices. Employees benefit from being part of an inclusive community where collaboration is encouraged at every level-from shop floor operators right up to senior management. The company places great emphasis on personal development by offering access to ongoing training opportunities designed to help individuals reach their full potential. With strong values rooted in integrity and responsibility towards both people and planet alike, this employer provides an inspiring environment where everyone's contribution matters. Flexible working arrangements further support work-life balance while generous benefits packages reflect their appreciation for loyal team members. Joining this business means becoming part of something bigger: helping deliver essential products that touch millions of lives every day while advancing your own career within a forward-thinking enterprise. What's next:If you are ready to make a meaningful impact at one of Indonesia's premier food manufacturers-and believe your skills match what we're looking for-we encourage you to take the next step today! Apply today by clicking on the link provided-your journey towards shaping the future of sugar manufacturing starts here.Due to the high volume of applications we are experiencing, our team will only be in touch with you if your application is shortlisted.