THE ROLE
As Value Stream Manager for NPD and Convenience Foods, you will assume full accountability for Caswell’s entire value stream in these areas—spanning the Beverage Plant, Ready-to-Eat 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 agility to integrate and commercialize new products swiftly. Reporting directly to the Head of Manufacturing & Engineering, your leadership will involve directing a team comprising supervisors, shift leads, and production operators, while also functioning as the manufacturing execution lead within Caswell’s NPD Stage-Gate process.
This position focuses on establishing robust operational frameworks within a rapidly expanding manufacturing environment. Your responsibilities will include implementing efficient processes, introducing standardized procedures where none currently exist, and laying the groundwork for Caswell to consistently and efficiently introduce new products on a large scale.
Oversee and execute a wide range of tasks encompassing strategic planning, operational management, and team leadership to drive organizational success. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance efficiency, productivity, and compliance with industry standards. Foster a collaborative work environment by mentoring staff, delegating responsibilities, and ensuring alignment with company goals. Analyze performance metrics, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions to optimize workflows and achieve key performance indicators. Prepare and present detailed reports to stakeholders, highlighting progress, challenges, and strategic recommendations for informed decision-making.
The role focuses on optimizing workflow efficiency and promoting lean methodologies within the organization. Candidates must demonstrate expertise in value stream mapping, process improvement, and leadership in driving continuous enhancement initiatives. Responsibilities include identifying bottlenecks, eliminating waste, and fostering a culture of operational excellence. Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a track record of successful process transformation are essential. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is required to implement sustainable improvements and achieve strategic objectives.
Map, oversee, and enhance the complete journey of materials and information across the convenience foods value stream, transitioning seamlessly from the existing state to an optimized future state.
Utilize lean methodologies to methodically address and remove inefficiencies from the value stream, employing tools such as take time optimization, standardized work processes, visual management techniques, 5S workplace organization, Kaiden continuous improvement initiatives, and pull-based production systems.
Drive structured accountability throughout the stream by executing and overseeing tier management routines on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis.
Own the stream’s capacity model and ONE program to systematically identify key contributors to losses and spearhead targeted improvement initiatives.
NPD Commercialization & Scale-Up
Responsible for driving the transition of new product developments from conception to full-scale market release, ensuring seamless integration of innovation into production processes. Oversees the optimization of manufacturing capabilities to meet demand while maintaining stringent quality and compliance standards. Collaborates cross-functionally with R&D, operations, and supply chain teams to align development timelines with commercial objectives. Leads critical scale-up activities, including pilot production, process validation, and regulatory approvals, to expedite time-to-market. Analyzes performance metrics, cost efficiencies, and risk factors to refine go-to-market strategies and enhance overall product viability.
As the manufacturing lead within Caswell’s NPD Stage-Gate framework, you will oversee the entire product development lifecycle, beginning with feasibility evaluation and extending through line trials, process validation, and final commercial launch approval.
We are responsible for overseeing the entire ramp-up process from validated pilot production to full-scale commercial manufacturing, ensuring adherence to robust manufacturing standards, developing detailed SOPs, setting achievable yield targets, and implementing critical quality control checkpoints for each new product introduction.
Oversee the management of the New Product Development (NPD) pipeline tracker and serve as the manufacturing readiness advocate at each Stage-Gate evaluation milestone.
Provides strategic direction and oversight for technical processes and teams, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and industry best practices. Drives continuous improvement in technical methodologies, performance metrics, and operational efficiency through innovative solutions and data-driven decision-making. Leads the development and implementation of robust frameworks, standards, and governance models to enhance quality, scalability, and compliance across systems and workflows. Collaborates cross-functionally to integrate technical expertise with business needs, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and excellence in execution.
Deliver comprehensive technical leadership spanning extrusion processing, puffed snack production, seasoning and flavoring systems, frying technologies, beverage processing, and ready-to-eat (RTE) food manufacturing.
Optimize process parameters across every production line to enhance product quality, increase throughput and yield, and reduce costs—collaborating closely with Engineering and Maintenance teams to bolster equipment reliability and ensure adherence to planned maintenance schedules.
We are seeking a results-driven professional to oversee and enhance operational performance, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and adherence to organizational standards. The ideal candidate will monitor key performance indicators, analyze operational data, and implement strategic improvements to optimize workflows. Responsibilities include identifying inefficiencies, recommending solutions, and driving continuous process enhancements. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in data interpretation, and experience in operational management are essential. The role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams, effective communication of findings, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. A degree in business administration, operations management, or a related field is preferred, along with relevant certifications or demonstrated experience in a similar capacity.
Establish and achieve performance benchmarks encompassing safety, quality, output, overall equipment effectiveness (ONE), waste reduction, labor productivity, and manufacturing cost efficiency for all facilities within the operational stream.
Facilitate systematic problem-solving methodologies—such as 8D, 5-Why analysis, and Root Cause Analysis (RCA)—across all organizational levels to identify and resolve production inefficiencies and quality deviations, ensuring sustainable corrective actions.
Ensures compliance with food safety regulations and maintains high-quality standards throughout all operational processes. Monitors and enforces adherence to sanitation protocols, proper food handling techniques, and hygiene practices. Conducts regular inspections and audits to identify potential hazards, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with industry and regulatory requirements. Collaborates with production teams to implement corrective actions, improve processes, and uphold food safety and quality benchmarks. Trains staff on best practices in food safety, hygiene, and quality assurance to foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Provide strategic oversight for food safety initiatives throughout the entire value stream, encompassing established operations and new product trials, with a focus on HACCP, GMP, allergen management, traceability, and food defense protocols.
Develop infrastructure and processes that ensure compliance with globally recognized food safety standards, such as FSSC 22000, BRC, KEYS, or their equivalents, to achieve certification.
We require a skilled professional to oversee cost analysis and margin optimization. The ideal candidate will evaluate financial data, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure pricing strategies align with profitability goals. Responsibilities include analyzing expenditure trends, calculating cost variances, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement efficiency improvements. Proficiency in financial modeling and data interpretation is essential, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Experience in cost accounting or financial planning and analysis is highly preferred.
We are responsible for overseeing the complete manufacturing cost structure, encompassing raw materials, utilities, labor, packaging, and waste management, with an emphasis on meticulously controlling the cost-to-manufacture for new products.
Enhance manufacturing margins by implementing and sustaining yield improvement and waste reduction initiatives, delivering tangible, long-term results through measurable outcomes.
The department responsible for enhancing organizational effectiveness is seeking a dedicated People & Capability professional. This role focuses on cultivating talent, fostering employee development, and implementing strategic initiatives to strengthen workforce capabilities. Key responsibilities include designing and executing learning and development programs, optimizing performance management systems, and driving cultural initiatives that align with the organization’s goals. The ideal candidate will possess strong interpersonal skills, experience in talent management, and a proven ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. Additionally, expertise in workforce planning, succession management, and change leadership is highly desirable.
Lead, foster, and establish a top-performing team comprising supervisors, shift leads, and operators, while implementing rigorous accountability structures and cultivating a robust culture of continuous improvement.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Forged in 8–12 years of progressive hands-on experience within food manufacturing, including a minimum of four years spent steering a senior value stream, plant, or operations leadership capacity.
Proven expertise in applying Value Stream Management or lean manufacturing methodologies within a food or FMCG production setting, encompassing value stream mapping, take time optimization, and systematic waste reduction.
Proficiency in practical technical skills within the snacks, extrusion, convenience foods, ready-to-eat (RTE), or closely related food sectors is a fundamental and mandatory requirement.
Accomplished in guiding new product development (NPD) initiatives through every critical stage of commercialization, from initial manufacturing line trials and rigorous process validation to establishing consistent yields and seamless scaling for full-scale production.
Food safety certification is required, with a minimum of HACCP compliance; however, FSSC 22000 or BRC certification is highly preferred.
Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Green Belt certification would significantly enhance your candidacy.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in cost control, delivering quantifiable improvements in manufacturing expenses and overall profit margins.
A degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Engineering, or Industrial Engineering is mandatory for this role.
At Caswell Industries Ltd, we invite professionals to contribute to a dynamic and innovative organization committed to excellence in industrial solutions. With a focus on cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, we seek individuals who thrive in collaborative environments and are eager to drive impactful change. Our team members play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality products and services that meet the evolving demands of global markets. If you are passionate about growth, possess a strong work ethic, and seek opportunities to develop your skills alongside industry leaders, we welcome your expertise to join us in shaping the future of industrial advancement.
At Caswell, we are committed to developing brands and operational strategies that sustain families and communities. As a proudly Kenyan fast-moving consumer goods company with a deep-rooted heritage and ambitious growth trajectory, we cultivate a vibrant workplace where skilled professionals can drive significant change. Joining Caswell entails:
Assuming accountability as a senior leader for the complete value stream, empowered with the mandate, team, and resources to develop it into a world-class benchmark.
As an integral member of a globally recognized food industry leader, renowned for its unwavering consumer confidence and an esteemed portfolio of well-known household brands, you will contribute to a dynamic and influential organization.
At the convergence of lean manufacturing, food technology, and the commercialization of new product development, this leadership role emerges as a distinctive opportunity in Kenya’s market landscape.
Operating within a dynamic, results-oriented setting, your strategic choices yield immediate and measurable commercial benefits.
Driving forward the innovation and expansion of products utilized by millions of Kenyan households.
At this pivotal juncture in the company’s evolution, you will play a pivotal role in establishing the operational groundwork that will define the organization’s trajectory for the next ten years.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
8 - 12 years
