THE ROLE
As the Value Stream Manager overseeing New Product Development (NPD) and Convenience Foods, you will assume full accountability for the entire value stream at Caswell, which encompasses the Beverage Plant, Ready-to-Eat (RTE) operations, Extrusion and Puffed Snacks, FRK production, and Fried Snack manufacturing.
You will oversee the complete operational health of the manufacturing stream—including flow efficiency, cost control, quality standards, food safety compliance, workforce capability, and the agility to rapidly adopt and commercialize new products. Reporting directly to the Head of Manufacturing & Engineering, you will manage a cross-functional team comprising supervisors, shift leads, and production operators while serving as the key manufacturing execution authority within Caswell’s New Product Development (NPD) Stage-Gate framework.
This position focuses on building operational excellence within our rapidly expanding manufacturing environment. You will implement disciplined, streamlined processes where none currently exist, establishing the robust operational framework required for Caswell to consistently and efficiently introduce new products at scale.
Oversee and execute a diverse range of critical tasks, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and operational excellence. Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance productivity, efficiency, and overall performance across assigned functions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project completion, resolve complex challenges, and foster innovation. Monitor progress through established metrics, providing data-driven insights to leadership for informed decision-making. Maintain compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and best practices while upholding rigorous quality standards. Serve as a key liaison between departments, facilitating seamless communication and coordination to achieve shared goals. Mentor and support team members through professional development initiatives, empowering them to contribute effectively to the organization’s success.
We are seeking an experienced professional to drive operational excellence through the implementation of Value Stream Mapping and Lean methodologies. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in leading transformational initiatives, optimizing processes, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Responsibilities include analyzing current workflows, identifying waste and inefficiencies, and developing strategic plans to enhance productivity, quality, and delivery performance. Additionally, you will mentor teams in Lean principles, facilitate cross-functional collaboration, and champion data-driven decision-making to sustain long-term growth and competitiveness. Strong leadership, analytical skills, and expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies are essential for success in this role.
Map, oversee, and enhance the complete journey of materials and information across the convenience foods value stream—from the existing process to the envisioned future state.
Employers are seeking a professional who can methodically reduce waste throughout the workflow by implementing lean methodologies such as take time optimization, standardized work procedures, visual management techniques, 5S organization, Kaiden continuous improvement initiatives, and pull-based production systems.
Oversee tier management activities on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis to establish and reinforce structured accountability throughout the entire stream.
Own the development and maintenance of the stream’s capacity model and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (ONE) program, pinpointing key contributors to losses and spearheading targeted improvement initiatives.
We are seeking a seasoned professional to spearhead the commercialization and scale-up initiatives within our New Product Development (NPD) division. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in transitioning innovative concepts from prototype to full-scale production, ensuring seamless integration into market-ready offerings. Key responsibilities include overseeing production optimization, managing supply chain logistics, and aligning cross-functional teams to meet strategic timelines and quality benchmarks. Proficiency in regulatory compliance, cost analysis, and risk mitigation is essential, along with strong leadership skills to drive collaboration across departments. A background in manufacturing, engineering, or a related field, coupled with a track record of successfully launching products at scale, is required.
As the manufacturing lead within Caswell’s Stage-Gate New Product Development (NPD) process, oversee key stages spanning from initial feasibility evaluations to line trials, process validation, and final commercial launch approval.
Oversee the ramp process from validated pilot to full-scale commercial production, defining manufacturing standards, standard operating procedures (SOPs), yield objectives, and critical quality control checkpoints for each new product.
Responsible for overseeing an NPD pipeline tracker and serving as the manufacturing readiness representative at each Stage-Gate milestone.
Demonstrates leadership in driving technical excellence and optimizing processes to enhance organizational performance.
Offer strategic technical guidance and oversight in extrusion processing, expanded snack production, seasoning and flavoring systems, frying technologies, beverage processing, and ready-to-eat food manufacturing.
Optimize process parameters across every production line to enhance product quality, throughput, yield, and cost efficiency by collaborating closely with Engineering and Maintenance teams to strengthen equipment reliability and adherence to planned maintenance schedules.
Ensures the organization maintains optimal efficiency and effectiveness across all operational processes by monitoring performance metrics, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing strategic improvements to enhance productivity and reduce costs. This role analyzes data, reports on key performance indicators, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to streamline workflows, mitigate risks, and drive continuous operational excellence. A strong analytical mindset, proficiency in data interpretation, and the ability to translate insights into actionable solutions are essential, along with excellent communication skills to convey findings and recommendations to stakeholders.
Establish and achieve performance benchmarks in critical operational areas—including safety, quality, output, overall equipment effectiveness (ONE), waste reduction, labor productivity, and manufacturing cost—for every facility within the production stream.
Employ strategic methodologies such as 8D, 5-Why, and Root Cause Analysis (RCA) to systematically address and resolve issues, ensuring permanent solutions are implemented at every organizational level to mitigate production losses and quality deviations.
Ensures strict adherence to food safety regulations and quality standards throughout all operational processes. Monitors and maintains compliance with relevant local, state, and federal guidelines to safeguard public health. Conducts routine inspections, audits, and risk assessments to identify potential hazards and implement corrective measures. Collaborates with production teams to enforce best practices in sanitation, hygiene, and contamination prevention. Investigates quality discrepancies, documents findings, and drives continuous improvement initiatives to uphold product integrity. Requires a degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field, along with relevant certifications such as HACCP or PCI. Prior experience in food manufacturing or quality assurance, strong analytical skills, and meticulous attention to detail are essential.
Demonstrate leadership in food safety throughout the entire value chain, encompassing HACCP, GMP, allergen management, traceability, and food defense—equally applicable to both existing operations and new product trials.
Develop frameworks and processes designed to secure globally recognized food safety certifications, such as FSSC 22000, BRC, KEYS, or comparable standards.
Responsible for maintaining accurate cost records and ensuring optimal margin performance, this role involves regular monitoring of pricing structures, cost analysis, and the identification of opportunities to enhance profitability. Duties include reviewing expense reports, assessing supplier contracts, and collaborating with procurement teams to negotiate better terms. Additionally, the position requires generating detailed financial reports, providing insights on cost-saving initiatives, and supporting strategic decision-making to drive sustainable financial growth. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in financial software, and a keen attention to detail are essential for success in this role.
Accountable for the complete manufacturing cost management, encompassing raw materials, utilities, labor, packaging, and waste, with heightened focus on cost-to-manufacture for newly developed products.
Implement and oversee programs aimed at enhancing yield and eliminating waste, ensuring these initiatives deliver measurable, long-term improvements to manufacturing margins.
The department of People & Capability is responsible for cultivating a high-performing workforce by fostering employee engagement, talent development, and organizational effectiveness. This involves designing and implementing strategic initiatives that align with the company’s long-term goals, ensuring a robust pipeline of skilled professionals ready to meet evolving business demands. Key responsibilities include overseeing recruitment processes, performance management frameworks, and employee retention strategies, as well as promoting a culture of continuous learning and innovation. The team also plays a pivotal role in shaping workplace policies, enhancing employee well-being, and driving diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization.
Spearhead the formation and growth of a top-tier team comprising supervisors, shift leads, and operators, establishing robust accountability structures and fostering a culture of relentless continuous improvement.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
A minimum of eight to twelve years of progressive experience within the food manufacturing sector is required, including at least four years spent in a senior leadership capacity within a value stream, plant, or operational management environment.
Proven expertise in implementing Value Stream Management or lean manufacturing methodologies within a food or FMCG operation, encompassing value stream mapping, take time optimization, and systematic waste reduction initiatives.
Proven practical technical knowledge in the snack, extrusion, convenience foods, RTE, or closely aligned food sectors is indispensable and non-negotiable.
Demonstrates extensive experience in successfully commercializing new product development (NPD) from a manufacturing perspective, including conducting line trials, validating processes, establishing yield targets, and scaling up to full commercial production.
Food safety certification, with HACCP as a minimum requirement, is essential. Preference will be given to candidates who possess FSSC 22000 or BRC certification.
Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Green Belt certification would be highly beneficial.
Demonstrated proficiency in cost control, resulting in quantifiable reductions in manufacturing expenditures and improved profit margins.
A degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, or Industrial Engineering is mandatory for this role.
WHY CONSIDER EMBARKING ON A CAREER WITH CASWELL INDUSTRIES LTD?
As a distinguished leader in [industry/sector, if specified], Caswell Industries Ltd. offers a dynamic and rewarding professional environment where innovation meets excellence. We seek talented individuals eager to contribute to our mission of [mention mission if available, e.g., “delivering cutting-edge solutions” or “driving industry advancements”] while growing alongside a forward-thinking organization. Whether you are an experienced professional or an emerging talent, our team fosters collaboration, creativity, and continuous development to empower employees to achieve their full potential.
Ideal candidates will possess [list key requirements, e.g., “a degree in [field],” “X years of experience in [related role],” “proficiency in [specific skills/tools],” and “strong problem-solving abilities”]. By joining us, you will play a pivotal role in [mention key responsibilities, e.g., “designing sustainable systems,” “leading cross-functional projects,” or “enhancing operational efficiency”], all while benefiting from competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a supportive workplace culture. Together, we shape the future of [industry/sector] through dedication, integrity, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
At Caswell, we are committed to creating brands and operational frameworks that sustain families and empower communities. As a proudly Kenyan fast-moving consumer goods enterprise with a rich heritage and bold expansion ambitions, we provide a vibrant workplace where skilled professionals can drive significant, lasting change. Joining Caswell offers the opportunity to:
Assuming senior leadership accountability for an entire value stream—entrusted with the mandate, the team, and the necessary resources to develop it to world-class performance standards—will be your core responsibility.
Revised:
Joining a prestigious food industry leader renowned for its consumer confidence and an esteemed collection of well-known household brands
Leading at the convergence of lean manufacturing, food technology, and the commercialization of new product development—a distinctive opportunity in the Kenyan market.
Operating within a dynamic, results-oriented setting where your choices yield immediate and measurable business outcomes.
Directly spearheading the innovation and expansion of products utilized by millions of Kenyan households, this role plays a pivotal part in driving the company’s success and market leadership.
At this pivotal juncture in the organization’s trajectory, contributing to a transformative phase where the operational frameworks established today will define the company’s growth trajectory for the next ten years.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
8 - 12 years
