THE ROLE
As the Value Stream Manager for New Product Development (NPD) and Convenience Foods, you will assume complete accountability for Caswell’s entire value stream, encompassing the Beverage Plant, Ready-to-Eat (RTE) operations, Extrusion and Puffed Snacks, FRK production, and Fried Snack manufacturing.
You will oversee the comprehensive performance of the production line, ensuring optimal flow, cost efficiency, quality standards, food safety compliance, workforce capability, and the seamless integration and commercialization of new products. Reporting directly to the Head of Manufacturing & Engineering, you will manage a 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 requires a dedication to building robust operational systems within a rapidly expanding manufacturing environment. You will drive continuous improvement by introducing lean methodologies where processes are still being defined, establishing clear standards where none currently exist, and laying the groundwork necessary for Caswell to consistently and efficiently introduce new products at scale.
Oversee and execute a comprehensive range of duties encompassing strategic planning, operational management, and team leadership to drive organizational success. Lead cross-functional initiatives, ensuring seamless collaboration across departments to achieve established goals. Develop and implement policies and procedures that enhance efficiency, compliance, and performance standards. Conduct thorough performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and mentor team members to foster professional growth. Manage budgets, allocate resources effectively, and monitor financial performance to maintain fiscal responsibility. Represent the organization in high-level meetings, negotiations, and stakeholder communications to uphold its reputation and interests. Analyze market trends, competitive landscapes, and industry benchmarks to inform decision-making and strategic direction. Ensure adherence to legal and regulatory requirements while promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
The individual will spearhead the optimization of value stream flow and champion lean leadership principles throughout the organization. Responsibilities include identifying inefficiencies, implementing continuous improvement initiatives, and fostering a culture of operational excellence. The role requires a proven track record in lean methodologies, process mapping, and eliminating waste while driving measurable performance improvements. Strong analytical skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to mentor teams in lean practices are essential. Collaboration with cross-functional teams to align processes with organizational goals will be a key focus.
Map, oversee, and enhance the complete journey of materials and information within the convenience foods value chain, transitioning from the present state to an optimized future state.
Utilize lean methodologies to methodically remove waste from the process flow, employing tools such as take time optimization, standardized work practices, visual management techniques, 5S implementation, Kaiden initiatives, and pull-based systems.
Direct oversight of structured, recurring tier management protocols is required, spanning daily, weekly, and monthly intervals to establish clear accountability frameworks across all operational levels within the stream.
Own the stream’s capacity model and ONE program, systematically identifying leading loss contributors and spearheading targeted improvement initiatives to drive measurable performance gains.
As a member of our team, you will be responsible for driving the commercialization and scale-up initiatives for new product development, ensuring seamless transition from concept to market release. Your role will involve collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize production processes, maintain stringent quality standards, and meet key performance metrics. You will also be tasked with managing supplier relationships, mitigating risks, and overseeing cost-effective scale-up strategies to support business growth and innovation.
As the manufacturing lead within Caswell’s New Product Development Stage-Gate framework, you will oversee the entire process—beginning with feasibility evaluations, progressing through line trials and process validation, and culminating in the commercial launch and final sign-off.
Take full ownership of the ramp process, transitioning products from validated pilot to full-scale commercial production; implement robust manufacturing standards, develop comprehensive SOPs, set measurable yield targets, and establish critical quality control checkpoints for each new product.
Maintain the New Product Development pipeline tracker and serve as the manufacturing readiness advocate during every Stage-Gate review.
We are seeking a dynamic leader to provide strategic oversight and guidance in technical processes, driving innovation and operational excellence within our organization. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of managing complex technical initiatives, optimizing workflows, and fostering cross-functional collaboration to achieve measurable business outcomes. Responsibilities include establishing robust technical standards, mentoring teams, and ensuring adherence to industry best practices while maintaining a focus on scalability and efficiency. The role demands a blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and the ability to translate high-level objectives into actionable strategies that enhance productivity and mitigate risks.
Offer expert technical direction spanning extrusion processing, the production of puffed snacks, 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, increase throughput and yield, and reduce costs—while collaborating closely with Engineering and Maintenance teams to bolster equipment reliability and ensure adherence to planned maintenance schedules.
The position focuses on enhancing operational performance by analyzing key metrics, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing strategic improvements to drive productivity and efficiency. The role requires a strong background in operations management, with proficiency in data analysis tools and methodologies to assess workflows and operational processes. Responsibilities include overseeing daily operations, monitoring performance indicators, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize resource allocation and streamline procedures. Candidates must demonstrate exceptional problem-solving skills, the ability to interpret complex data, and a track record of delivering measurable results in fast-paced environments.
To establish and achieve performance benchmarks across key operational metrics—including safety, quality, output, overall equipment effectiveness (ONE), waste reduction, labor productivity, and manufacturing cost—for all facilities within the designated production stream.
Facilitate structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8D, 5-Why, and Root Cause Analysis (RCA) across all operational levels to identify and resolve the underlying causes of production losses and quality deviations, ensuring permanent solutions are implemented.
Ensuring adherence to stringent food safety and quality standards is paramount in this role. Responsibilities include monitoring compliance with regulatory guidelines, conducting thorough inspections, and implementing corrective actions when necessary. Candidates must possess a strong understanding of food safety protocols, relevant certifications, and prior experience in quality assurance within the food industry. Excellent attention to detail, analytical skills, and the ability to communicate findings effectively are essential for success in this position.
Provide strategic leadership in food safety initiatives throughout the entire value stream, encompassing HACCP, GMP, allergen control, product traceability, and food defense measures, ensuring consistent compliance in both current operations and new product development trials.
Develop frameworks designed to attain globally recognized food safety certifications, including FSSC 22000, BRC, KEYS, or their equivalents.
We are seeking a detail-oriented individual to oversee cost analysis and margin optimization, ensuring financial accuracy and strategic pricing decisions. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, proficiency in financial modeling, and experience with cost accounting principles. Responsibilities include evaluating cost structures, identifying inefficiencies, and recommending improvements to enhance profitability. Proficiency in spreadsheet software and data visualization tools is essential, along with the ability to interpret complex financial data. Previous experience in a related role is preferred.
Accountable for managing the complete manufacturing cost structure, encompassing raw materials, utilities, labor, packaging, and waste, with a heightened focus on optimizing the cost-to-manufacture for new product introductions.
Enhance manufacturing margin by implementing and sustaining yield improvement initiatives and waste reduction programs, ensuring measurable and long-term results.
The role focuses on enhancing organizational talent and capabilities through strategic workforce planning, talent development initiatives, and performance management frameworks. Responsibilities include designing and implementing programs to attract, retain, and develop top talent, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and aligning workforce strategies with business objectives. The position requires expertise in talent acquisition, succession planning, and employee engagement strategies, along with strong interpersonal and leadership skills to drive organizational growth and adaptability. A deep understanding of HR best practices, change management, and data-driven decision-making is essential to effectively manage People & Capability functions.
Direct the establishment and growth of a high-caliber team comprising supervisors, shift leads, and operators, ensuring robust accountability structures and fostering an environment of relentless continuous improvement.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
With a minimum of eight to twelve years of cumulative experience in food manufacturing, including at least four years in a senior leadership capacity within a value stream, plant, or operations environment, candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of progressive responsibility and expertise.
Demonstrates expertise in Value Stream Management or lean manufacturing methodologies within food or FMCG operations, with hands-on experience in value stream mapping, take time optimization, and systematic waste reduction techniques.
Experts with practical, in-depth knowledge of snacks, extrusion processes, convenience foods, ready-to-eat products, or closely related food segments are required—this qualification is both essential and non-negotiable.
Demonstrates full accountability for the commercialization of New Product Development (NPD) from a manufacturing perspective, including conducting line trials, validating processes, establishing yield benchmarks, and scaling up to full commercial production.
Food safety certification is required, with at least HACCP compliance; FSSC 22000 or BRC certification is highly desirable.
Holding a Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Green Belt certification would be highly beneficial.
Demonstrates a proven ability to effectively manage costs, delivering tangible improvements in manufacturing expenses and overall profit margins.
A bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, or Industrial Engineering is essential.
Why Choose to Work at Caswell Industries Ltd.
At Caswell, we are committed to cultivating brands and operational frameworks that sustain families and communities. As a proudly Kenyan fast-moving consumer goods company with a rich heritage and ambitious expansion goals, we provide a vibrant workplace where skilled professionals can drive significant change. Joining Caswell means:
Assuming senior leadership accountability for an entire value stream, this role encompasses full ownership of the mandate, team, and resources to develop it into a world-class benchmark.
As a member of a globally recognized food industry leader, renowned for its unwavering consumer trust and an esteemed portfolio of household brands, you will contribute to an organization at the forefront of the market.
At the convergence of lean manufacturing, food technology, and the commercialization of new product development, this role offers a distinctive opportunity in the Kenyan market.
Delivering exceptional results in a high-energy, results-oriented setting, your strategic choices will yield tangible and immediate commercial benefits.
Rewriting the original paragraph professionally while preserving all key elements could look like this:
By playing an integral role in driving innovation and expansion, you will substantially influence the products that serve millions of Kenyan households on a daily basis.
Position yourself within an organization at a pivotal juncture, where the operational frameworks you establish will profoundly influence the company’s trajectory over the next ten years.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
8 - 12 years
