The position involves overseeing a range of operational tasks, ensuring efficiency and adherence to established protocols. Key responsibilities include coordinating team activities, managing workflows, and maintaining accurate documentation to support organizational objectives. Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, proficiency in relevant software tools, and the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels. Experience in a similar role within the industry is preferred, along with a track record of delivering results under tight deadlines. The ideal candidate will demonstrate adaptability, problem-solving capabilities, and a commitment to continuous improvement in a fast-paced environment.
As the Value Stream Manager for NPD and Convenience Foods, you will oversee the entire value stream at Caswell, 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, including its operational flow, cost efficiency, quality standards, food safety compliance, workforce capabilities, and capacity to implement and commercialize new products rapidly. Reporting directly to the Head of Manufacturing & Engineering, you will manage a team comprising supervisors, shift leads, and production operators while functioning as the primary manufacturing execution lead within Caswell’s NPD Stage-Gate framework.
This position focuses on establishing robust, efficient systems within a rapidly expanding manufacturing setting. You will implement lean methodologies to enhance operational discipline, establish standardized processes in areas lacking them, and lay the groundwork for Caswell’s ability to consistently and efficiently introduce new products.
Oversee and execute critical duties associated with the role, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. Assume responsibility for key tasks, including analyzing data, developing strategic plans, and fostering cross-functional collaboration. Contribute to decision-making processes by providing insights and recommendations based on thorough research and market trends. Monitor performance metrics to evaluate progress and identify opportunities for improvement. Maintain compliance with industry regulations and company policies throughout all operations. Actively engage in professional development to stay current with emerging tools and best practices in the field. Serve as a liaison between departments to streamline communication and enhance workflow efficiency. Ensure timely completion of projects while adhering to quality standards and budgetary constraints. Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within the team.
Experts in Value Stream Flow and Lean Leadership are sought to drive operational excellence through systematic process optimization. Candidates must demonstrate a strong background in identifying and eliminating waste, enhancing flow efficiency, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Proficiency in Lean methodologies, such as Kaiden, 5S, and Value Stream Mapping, is essential, along with experience in cross-functional team leadership. Responsibilities include analyzing current state processes, designing future state visions, and implementing sustainable improvements that align with strategic objectives. The role requires collaboration with stakeholders at all levels to ensure alignment, engagement, and the adoption of Lean principles across the organization.
Map, oversee, and optimize the complete journey of materials and information across the convenience foods value stream, transitioning from the present state to an enhanced future state.
We will implement lean methodologies to methodically reduce waste throughout the workflow, employing tools such as take time optimization, standardized work processes, visual management systems, 5S workplace organization, Kaiden continuous improvement initiatives, and pull-based production mechanisms.
Direct oversight of tier management processes is essential, ensuring structured accountability is consistently maintained at all levels of the stream through daily, weekly, and monthly routines.
Responsible for managing the stream’s capacity model and ONE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) program, you will analyze key loss drivers and spearhead targeted improvement initiatives to enhance performance.
Seeking a professional to spearhead the commercialization and scale-up initiatives within the New Product Development (NPD) process, ensuring efficient transition from conceptualization to full-scale production while maintaining rigorous quality and compliance standards. The ideal candidate will oversee cross-functional coordination between R&D, manufacturing, supply chain, and marketing teams to align on timelines, budgets, and strategic objectives. Responsibilities include managing pilot production runs, identifying and mitigating risks in scaling operations, and optimizing processes for cost efficiency and scalability. Additionally, the role demands collaboration with regulatory affairs to ensure adherence to industry standards and developing go-to-market strategies to drive successful product launches. A minimum of five years of experience in NPD, manufacturing, or a related field is required, along with strong project management skills and proficiency in industry-specific tools and methodologies.
As the manufacturing lead, oversee Caswell’s New Product Development Stage-Gate process, guiding projects from initial feasibility evaluations through line trials, process validation, and final commercial launch approval.
Drive the transition of new products from validated pilot phases to full-scale commercial production, defining robust manufacturing standards, establishing comprehensive SOPs, setting yield targets, and implementing critical quality control checkpoints at every stage.
Maintain a New Product Development pipeline tracker and ensure manufacturing preparedness is assessed at each Stage-Gate review.
We are seeking a seasoned professional to provide strategic guidance in technical and process leadership, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and industry best practices. This role demands a deep understanding of complex systems, innovative problem-solving, and the ability to streamline workflows for enhanced efficiency. The ideal candidate will oversee cross-functional teams, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and foster a culture of excellence through mentorship and collaboration. Responsibilities include implementing scalable solutions, optimizing operational frameworks, and mitigating risks to maintain high performance standards. Candidates must possess advanced technical expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and a proven track record of delivering measurable results in dynamic environments.
Provide comprehensive technical leadership spanning extrusion processing, puffed snack production, seasoning and flavoring systems, frying technologies, beverage processing, and ready-to-eat (RTE) food manufacturing.
To enhance product quality, throughput, yield, and cost efficiency, refine process parameters across all production lines in collaboration with Engineering and Maintenance teams, fostering equipment reliability and adherence to planned maintenance schedules.
We are seeking a dedicated professional to oversee and enhance operational performance, ensuring maximum efficiency and effectiveness across all business processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operations management, with at least five years of relevant experience in a fast-paced environment. Key responsibilities include analyzing performance metrics, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing strategic solutions to drive productivity and reduce operational costs. Additionally, the role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to align operational goals with broader organizational objectives, as well as maintaining compliance with industry regulations and standards. The successful applicant must possess exceptional analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a proven track record of delivering measurable results in operational optimization.
Establish and achieve performance benchmarks encompassing safety, quality, output, ONE, waste reduction, labor productivity, and manufacturing cost efficiency across all plants within the operation.
Facilitate systematic problem-solving methodologies (such as 8D, 5-Why, and Root Cause Analysis) across all organizational levels to identify and address the underlying causes of production inefficiencies and quality discrepancies, ensuring lasting resolutions.
Ensures adherence to stringent food safety standards and maintains high-quality production processes throughout the facility. Conducts routine inspections, audits, and risk assessments to identify potential hazards and implement corrective actions. Develops and enforces comprehensive quality control protocols, including sanitation, hygiene, and contamination prevention measures. Collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. Trains staff on proper food handling techniques, hygiene protocols, and quality assurance procedures. Monitors equipment functionality and facility cleanliness to uphold sanitary conditions. Investigates quality deviations, customer complaints, and non-conformances to determine root causes and prevent recurrence. Maintains accurate documentation of inspections, tests, and corrective actions to support regulatory audits and continuous improvement initiatives.
Provide strategic leadership for food safety throughout the product lifecycle, encompassing established operations and new product development, with a focus on HACCP, GMP, allergen management, traceability, and food defense protocols.
Develop robust systems that satisfy the rigorous standards required for globally recognized food safety certifications, including FSSC 22000, BRC, KEYS, or other equivalent frameworks.
Responsible for overseeing and optimizing cost structures and profit margins, this role involves analyzing financial data, identifying trends, and implementing strategies to enhance efficiency and profitability. Key duties include evaluating expenditures, negotiating vendor contracts, and tracking key performance indicators related to cost management. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, proficiency in financial software, and experience in cost accounting or financial planning. Additionally, they should demonstrate the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive sustainable cost reductions and margin improvements.
You will be responsible for overseeing the complete manufacturing cost structure, including raw materials, utilities, labor, packaging, and waste management, with a heightened focus on optimizing cost-to-manufacture for new product introductions.
Enhance manufacturing efficiency by spearheading programs focused on yield maximization and waste reduction, delivering quantifiable, long-term improvements to overall margin performance.
We are seeking a dynamic professional to enhance and oversee our People & Capability function, ensuring the development and implementation of strategies that foster a high-performing, engaged workforce. The ideal candidate will drive talent management initiatives, including recruitment, performance management, and employee development, while collaborating with leadership to align organizational goals with talent capabilities. Responsibilities include designing and executing capability-building programs, identifying skill gaps, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. The role requires strong leadership, exceptional interpersonal skills, and a proven track record in talent development and organizational effectiveness. A background in human resources, organizational psychology, or related fields is preferred, along with experience in change management and strategic workforce planning.
Lead, cultivate, and assemble a high-caliber team comprising supervisors, shift leads, and operators, establishing robust accountability frameworks and fostering a culture of relentless continuous improvement.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
We seek candidates with a minimum of eight to twelve years of progressively responsible experience in food manufacturing, including a minimum of four years in a senior leadership capacity overseeing a value stream, plant operations, or related function.
Proven expertise in Value Stream Management or lean manufacturing methodologies within food or FMCG environments is required, encompassing value stream mapping, take time optimization, and systematic waste reduction initiatives.
Proficiency in the practical application of snack foods, extrusion processes, convenience foods, ready-to-eat (RTE) products, or closely aligned food categories is a fundamental and indispensable requirement.
Demonstrates comprehensive experience in successfully commercializing New Product Development (NPD) initiatives, encompassing line trials, process validation, yield optimization, and seamless scale-up to full-scale manufacturing.
Food safety certification, with at least HACCP compliance, is required; preference will be given to candidates holding FSSC 22000 or BRC certification.
Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Green Belt certification would be highly advantageous.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in cost control strategies, delivering quantifiable improvements in manufacturing expenditures and profitability margins.
A Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, or Industrial Engineering is mandatory for this position.
WHY JOIN CASWELL INDUSTRIES LTD.
Caswell Industries Ltd. stands at the forefront of innovation, offering a dynamic and rewarding career path in a globally expanding industry. Our team is driven by a shared commitment to excellence, fostering an environment where collaboration and creativity flourish. As a valued member of our organization, you will contribute to groundbreaking projects that shape the future while gaining access to comprehensive professional development opportunities. We seek individuals who thrive in fast-paced settings, possess strong problem-solving skills, and demonstrate a proactive approach to overcoming challenges. Whether you are an experienced professional or a motivated newcomer, Caswell Industries Ltd. provides the tools, mentorship, and resources to help you achieve your career aspirations and make a lasting impact.
At Caswell, we are committed to creating brands and operational systems that enrich the lives of families and communities. As a proudly Kenyan FMCG company with deep-rooted heritage and ambitious expansion goals, we cultivate a vibrant workplace where skilled professionals can drive significant contributions. Joining Caswell means:
Senior leaders will assume full ownership of a complete value stream, empowered with the mandate, team, and resources required to develop it into a globally competitive standard.
As a valued member of a leading food company renowned for consumer trust and a well-established portfolio of trusted household brands, you will contribute to an organization that consistently delivers high-quality products and maintains a strong market presence.
Driving innovation at the convergence of lean manufacturing, food technology, and the commercialization of new product development—a distinctive and uncommon intersection within Kenya’s dynamic business landscape.
Delivering impactful results in a dynamic, performance-oriented setting, where your strategic choices yield measurable commercial benefits.
Dedicated to driving the innovation and expansion of products utilized by millions of Kenyan households, the role plays a pivotal part in shaping the future of everyday essentials for consumers across the nation.
At this pivotal juncture in the company’s trajectory, where the operational frameworks you establish now will profoundly influence the organization’s trajectory over the next ten years, you will have the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
8 - 12 years
