Operations Manager at Unilever

JOB PURPOSE:

• The Operations Lead is accountable for the end-to-end performance of the sourcing unit, integrating plant management with engineering leadership. The role ensures safe, reliable, and efficient production while driving continuous improvement, innovation, and cost competitiveness. The Operations Lead is responsible for production, engineering, utilities, site infrastructure, and capital projects to deliver PQCDSMI targets, sustainable growth, and superior product quality.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operational Leadership
• Lead all conversion operations from goods receipt, material storage, internal logistics, processing, and packing to finished goods handover.
• Define plant capacity and constraints for effective short- and long-term production planning.
• Ensure delivery of production commitments across volume, quality, service, cost, and sustainability standards.
• Drive operational discipline and embed Unilever Manufacturing System (UMS/TPM) practices. Engineering & Maintenance
• Lead technical and maintenance teams to ensure asset reliability, planned maintenance, and Early Equipment Management.
• Manage engineering spares, contractors, and statutory compliance for all equipment and utilities.
• Implement projects on energy efficiency and sustainability while optimizing MTBF, MTTR, and spare parts usage.
• Secure and standardize engineering spares, while implementing robust engineering standards. Capital Projects & Innovation
• Prepare and manage capital budgets and expenditure proposals aligned with cluster and category requirements.
• Lead end-to-end execution of capital and innovation projects (design, budgeting, implementation, commissioning, and closure).
• Liaise with category and engineering excellence teams for technology upgrades and new capability deployment. Safety, Health & Environment (SHE)
• Ensure full compliance with Unilever and regulatory safety standards.
• Lead factory safety culture and ensure safe operating procedures for all engineering and plant operations.
• Oversee HAZOPs, PHAs, and commissioning safety in all capital projects.
• Ensure systems and training are in place for chemical handling, process safety, and environmental management. Continuous Improvement & Performance
• Deliver annual manufacturing excellence savings and continuously identify debottlenecking opportunities.
• Drive OEE improvements, waste reduction, and cost optimization across the factory.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver factory masterplan, infrastructure upgrades, and digital transformation. People & Leadership Lead, coach, and develop operations and engineering teams, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Strengthen technical capability in product, process, and packaging expertise.
• Create an inclusive, engaging, and performance-driven climate while managing in a unionized environment.

WHAT YOU NEED TO SUCCEED

• BSc Engineering Degree (Mechanical or Electrical).
• Government Certificate of Competency (GCC).
• 5–8 years’ management experience in FMCG manufacturing operations, with exposure to both engineering and production.
• Proven leadership of large teams, stakeholders, and contractors in a unionized environment.
• Demonstrated track record of delivering operational and capital projects end-to-end. Desirable:
• APICS CPIM / CSCP certification.
• SAP ERP experience.
• Strong background in WCM/TPM/Lean manufacturing methodologies.
• Financial and budget management skills.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:

• A unique mix of global scale & start-up spirit—€8.3bn powerhouse with an agile, entrepreneurial mindset. We’re building a new high growth Ice Cream company from the ground up.
• Career without limits—42 markets, international opportunities, and fast tracked growth.
• A performance-driven culture—Freedom to act, disrupt and grow – your success is measured by impact.
• A company that celebrates joy, innovation, and purpose—We create extraordinary careers, just like our ice cream creates extraordinary moments.