Our client stands as the foremost tea blending, packaging, and distribution enterprise, with an esteemed history spanning 47 years in both Kenyan and global markets. Renowned for its pioneering solutions, KET EPA delivers tailored branding and contract packaging services, complemented by an extensive and premium selection of over 50 products. Their diverse range includes black tea, flavored tea, green tea, purple tea, white tea, orthodox tea, herbal infusions, and refreshing bottled water. In line with their ongoing expansion and strategic accomplishments, they are actively seeking to onboard highly skilled, proactive, and exceptional professionals to fill the following role.
The Production Manager plays a pivotal role in overseeing manufacturing operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and timely delivery of products. Responsible for managing production schedules, coordinating with cross-functional teams, and implementing process improvements, this position requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and a keen eye for detail. Key responsibilities include maintaining production targets, optimizing workflows, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. The ideal candidate should possess a minimum of five years of experience in production management, proficiency in manufacturing software, and the ability to troubleshoot operational challenges. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills are essential to drive continuous improvement and meet organizational goals.
To facilitate operational excellence and strategic growth, this position is established to drive key initiatives, optimize processes, and enhance overall performance within the organization. The role requires a forward-thinking individual capable of analyzing complex challenges, devising innovative solutions, and collaborating across departments to achieve business objectives. Essential qualifications include a proven track record in [specific field/industry], strong leadership abilities, and expertise in [relevant skills/tools]. Key responsibilities involve overseeing [specific tasks], mentoring teams, and ensuring alignment with company goals while maintaining high standards of efficiency and accountability.
This role is accountable to the Head of Production and is responsible for directing and supervising all tea production activities, guaranteeing that products are processed, packaged, and dispatched in adherence to quality benchmarks, budgetary objectives, and scheduled timelines. The position involves strategically organizing and meticulously executing every stage of the factory production cycle—including Receiving, Blending, Packing, and Dispatch.
Oversee and administer the full spectrum of duties and obligations associated with this position, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and operational standards. Execute primary responsibilities with precision, including but not limited to strategic planning, team leadership, and cross-departmental collaboration to drive efficiency and productivity. Maintain rigorous adherence to established protocols, policies, and regulatory frameworks while fostering an environment of accountability and continuous improvement. Serve as a key contributor to project execution, troubleshooting challenges, and optimizing processes to meet or exceed performance benchmarks. Additionally, ensure accurate documentation, reporting, and communication of results to stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
The position encompasses a comprehensive range of duties and responsibilities, which include:
Overseeing team operations and ensuring the smooth execution of tasks are central to this leadership position. This role entails guiding employees toward achieving organizational objectives through strategic planning and effective resource allocation. Key duties include monitoring performance metrics, fostering professional growth, and maintaining team cohesion. Candidates must demonstrate strong leadership skills, a track record of successful project management, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. Proficiency in communication, problem-solving, and decision-making is essential, along with a commitment to operational excellence.
Experienced professionals in production planning and management are tasked with optimizing manufacturing processes to ensure efficient resource allocation, timely delivery, and adherence to quality standards. They develop and implement production schedules, monitor workflows, and coordinate with cross-functional teams to mitigate potential bottlenecks. Additionally, they analyze performance data to identify trends, implement continuous improvement initiatives, and maintain compliance with safety and regulatory requirements. Strong analytical, organizational, and leadership skills are essential to successfully oversee production operations and drive operational excellence.
Craft and execute production schedules to fulfill customer orders and address market demand, with a specific focus on managing out-of-stock situations.
Collaborate effectively with Procurement, Quality Control, and Maintenance Teams to maintain seamless operational workflows.
We continuously review and refine Production Plans to promptly address any disruptions or equipment malfunctions, ensuring seamless operations and minimal downtime.
We oversee the coordination and execution of contract packing operations, ensuring adherence to client specifications and deadlines. Our responsibilities include managing production schedules, maintaining quality standards, and optimizing resource allocation to meet contractual obligations efficiently. Additionally, we monitor inventory levels, resolve logistical challenges, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance operational performance. Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail are essential, along with proficiency in relevant industry software and tools.
Plan, coordinate, and manage contract packing initiatives for external clients, with a focus on adhering to agreed-upon timelines, meeting precise specifications, and fulfilling stringent quality standards.
Collaborate with the Purchasing and Finance Teams to synchronize contract packing capacity with established commitments.
Oversee the financial performance and efficient deployment of resources within contract packing operations, ensuring optimal profitability and utilization.
Prepare detailed performance reports for contract packing projects, analyzing key metrics such as operational efficiency, product quality standards, traceability of materials, and overall profitability outcomes.
Prepare procurement summaries outlining local tea requirements to facilitate the generation of Local Purchase Orders (Los).
Maintain and enhance existing Quality Assurance Systems while developing and implementing new ones and related guidelines.
Develop and deploy ISO management systems, along with additional pertinent standards, to ensure organizational compliance and operational excellence.
Collaborate with the NDP team and other relevant departments to contribute to the product development process.
Execute a comprehensive range of operational duties and responsibilities to ensure seamless business functioning, including overseeing daily workflows, managing resource allocation, and implementing process improvements. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align operational strategies with organizational objectives, maintaining high standards of efficiency and productivity. Analyze performance metrics to identify trends, resolve operational challenges, and optimize workflows for enhanced output. Develop and enforce policies and procedures to maintain compliance with industry regulations while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Lead initiatives to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and stakeholder expectations.
Ensure the efficient procurement and strategic deployment of raw materials and production resources to maximize plant capacity utilization.
Develop, execute, and maintain rigorous occupational health and safety protocols to guarantee continuous compliance with established standards and regulations.
Conduct monthly and annual stocktaking and reconciliation processes for raw materials, including loose tea and packaging materials.
Direct the development, coaching, and guidance of Production Supervisors, Machine Operators, and additional personnel to enhance performance and ensure operational excellence.
Perform performance appraisals to evaluate employee contributions, identify areas requiring skill enhancement, and foster professional development initiatives to strengthen team capabilities.
Foster collaboration, drive, and accountability on the production floor by cultivating a cohesive and high-performing team environment.
Compile and submit comprehensive production reports on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis for executive-level evaluation and strategic decision-making.
Oversee leave schedules to ensure uninterrupted production processes.
Examine production data to detect emerging patterns, pinpoint operational constraints, and uncover opportunities for enhancement.
Execute any additional duties deemed pertinent by the Supervisor, provided they fall within the parameters of the role.
Key Result Areas:
The key areas of accountability include the following:
Conducting thorough monthly and annual stock inventories is essential. Additionally, we will monitor and evaluate production volume in relation to established targets to ensure performance alignment.
Ensuring adherence to product quality compliance standards involves meticulous reporting and comprehensive documentation practices. This role demands accurate tracking of compliance metrics and the maintenance of detailed records to support quality assurance processes. Responsibilities include compiling data, generating compliance reports, and documenting findings to facilitate audits and regulatory reviews.
People management involves leading and developing teams to optimize productivity and drive operational excellence. Waste management focuses on implementing strategies to minimize inefficiencies and reduce costs across all stages of production. Monitoring and controlling production cost per unit is essential to maintaining profitability and ensuring sustainable business growth.
Contract packing operations demand swift turnaround times to ensure high levels of customer satisfaction, with meticulous attention to quality control and precision in fulfilling orders. Packaging specialists are tasked with efficiently managing production schedules, adhering to specified packaging standards, and maintaining clear communication with clients to address any concerns or adjustments required. Proficiency in operating packaging machinery, strict adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to meet strict deadlines are essential prerequisites for success in this role. Additionally, a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability to evolving packaging requirements further enhances performance in contract packing environments.
The establishment and enforcement of ISO standards pertaining to Occupational Health and Safety will be undertaken.
Effective budgetary planning involves the development, monitoring, and management of financial resources to ensure fiscal responsibility and strategic allocation of funds. This role requires a meticulous approach to forecasting, analysis, and reporting to align financial activities with organizational objectives. Key responsibilities include preparing detailed budgets, conducting variance analyses, and advising stakeholders on financial implications to support informed decision-making. Proficiency in financial software, strong analytical skills, and the ability to communicate complex data clearly are essential requirements for success in this position.
Candidates must possess a strong foundation in relevant technical or professional competencies, including proficiency in pertinent software, tools, or methodologies essential to the role. Additionally, they should demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, enabling them to effectively troubleshoot issues and optimize processes. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary to collaborate with team members and stakeholders across various levels. Familiarity with industry best practices, regulatory standards, and compliance requirements is also expected. Prior experience in a similar capacity or a proven track record of delivering measurable results in previous roles is highly desirable.
The candidate is required to have:
A bachelor’s degree in Food Science or a related scientific discipline is required.
Requires a minimum of eight years of professional experience in the relevant field.
With a minimum of three years of experience specifically in the Fast Moving Consumer Goods sector.
Proficiency in the ISO 9001 and ISO 22000 Management Systems is essential.
Requires proven expertise in managing and negotiating contracts, ensuring compliance with legal and organizational standards while mitigating risks. Seeking professionals with a track record of drafting, reviewing, and executing contractual agreements to support business objectives and safeguard interests. Demonstrated ability to interpret complex terms, identify potential liabilities, and collaborate with legal teams to finalize terms beneficial to all parties involved.
Packing manufacturing expertise serves as a valuable asset to candidates applying for this position.
Demonstrates extensive expertise in production planning, quality management systems, and maintenance coordination.
Accomplishes team objectives through strong leadership and clear communication, fostering collaboration and productivity among team members.
Requires strong expertise in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and comprehensive skills in Microsoft Office applications.
Proven expertise in analytical reasoning and Information Technology capabilities is essential for this role.
Qualified applicants are encouraged to submit their application materials, including a Motivation Letter that specifies the position applied for and outlines current and expected compensation, along with a Curriculum Vitae and the contact details of three referees, to: [Recipient]. This organization adheres to equal employment opportunity principles. The application deadline is Wednesday, June 10, 2026. Only candidates selected for further consideration will receive a response. Applicants should send their CV to jobshag@hcsaffiliatesgroup.com, ensuring the position title is included in the email subject line.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
8 years
