Head of Operations – Infant Formula Manufacturing

About the role

We are seeking an elite leader to take full operational ownership of a world‑class infant formula production hub. Reporting to the Site General Manager, you will be responsible for the day‑to‑day running of a 24/7 plant that has recently undergone a multi‑million‑dollar upgrade.

Key responsibilities

• Drive 24/7 operational execution across spray drying, wet processing, blending and high‑speed canning.
• Lead and mentor a diverse workforce of ~200 employees, including 5–6 direct functional heads.
• Implement Lean, Continuous Improvement and Total Productive Maintenance to boost OEE and reduce waste.
• Partner with engineering and maintenance to ensure asset reliability and shape mid‑to‑long‑term CAPEX strategy.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with HR, Finance, Supply Chain, NPD, Quality and Regulatory teams.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in Infant Milk Formula (IMF) manufacturing, especially spray‑dry technology.
• Proven track record leading large, multi‑shift manufacturing teams (150+ headcount).
• Strong technical credibility in dairy processing and ability to work in a multicultural environment.

Required skills

• Spray drying
• Canning
• Lean manufacturing
• Continuous improvement
• Total Productive Maintenance (TPM)
• Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) optimisation
• Asset reliability management
• Boiler, refrigeration and water‑treatment systems

What we offer

• Command of a strategically vital, state‑of‑the‑art plant backed by recent capital investment.
• Full autonomy to shape factory culture, capability and operational excellence.