Production Manager at 21Search Limited

Job Summary:

The Production Manager will oversee the entire yoghurt production process, ensuring efficiency, quality, compliance with food safety regulations, and cost-effective operations. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing production staff, optimizing processes, maintaining hygiene standards, and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality products.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement production schedules to meet demand while minimizing waste.
• Monitor the production process, ensuring efficiency and adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure optimal use of raw materials, equipment, and labor to maximize productivity.
• Troubleshoot production issues and implement corrective actions.
• Enforce strict hygiene and quality control measures in line with NAFDAC, SON, and other regulatory standards.
• Conduct routine checks on raw materials, production processes, and finished products to ensure compliance.
• Implement Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Address and resolve any quality-related complaints from customers or regulatory bodies.
• Supervise, train, and motivate production staff to maintain high performance and discipline.
• Implement safety protocols and ensure all workers adhere to health and safety standards.
• Develop and implement staff training programs to improve efficiency and skill levels.
• Monitor raw material usage and maintain adequate stock levels.
• Work with procurement teams to source high-quality ingredients at competitive prices.
• Minimize waste and production costs through efficient process management.
• Prepare and manage the production budget, ensuring cost-effective operations.
• Ensure all production machinery and equipment are properly maintained and serviced.
• Work with maintenance teams to minimize downtime and improve efficiency.
• Recommend upgrades or replacements for outdated or inefficient equipment.
• Ensure compliance with Nigerian food safety laws, environmental regulations, and labor laws.
• Maintain accurate production records, reports, and inventory documentation.
• Provide regular reports on production efficiency, costs, and quality metrics to senior management.

Key Requirements:

• Bachelor\'s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Industrial Chemistry, Production Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in a food production environment, preferably in dairy or yoghurt production.
• Strong knowledge of food processing, quality assurance, and safety regulations.
• Technical expertise in yoghurt production, pasteurization, and fermentation processes.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet production targets.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and production management software.
• Strong understanding of NAFDAC, SON, and FDA regulations.
• Regulatory compliance score (audit results from NAFDAC/SON)