Role Overview:

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced professional to lead the execution of a new ice cream manufacturing facility and subsequently take charge of its operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food manufacturing, proven project management capabilities, and the leadership acumen to build and run a high-performance team.

Key Responsibilities:

Phase 1: Project Execution (First 12 Months)

- Lead the setup of the ice cream plant including infrastructure, utilities, Processing and packing equipment installation, and commissioning.

- Manage target timelines, budgets, and vendor coordination to ensure smooth execution.

- Ensure all statutory approvals and compliance with Pollution control board, Factory Inspectorate, Boiler Inspector, FSSAI and many other government bodies.

- Collaborate with internal teams and project management consultants to align project goals with business objectives.

Phase 2: Factory Operations Management

- Oversee daily operations of the plant ensuring safety, quality, efficiency, and compliance.

- Drive production planning, preventive maintenance, and continuous improvement initiatives.

- Ensure adherence to food safety standards and regulatory norms.

- Ensure target delivery of cost and budget by close monitoring of manpower, energy and wastage

- Drive cost effective programme for the site to deliver savings target

Coordinate with key internal stakeholders:

- R&D for product development and trials

- Logistics for supply chain efficiency and customer service

- HR for workforce management, capability building and training

- Finance for cost forecasting, budget preparation and cost control

Qualifications & Experience:

- Age: 45-50 years

- Education: Degree in Engineering (Mechanical/Electrical/Production) or Food Science

- Experience: Minimum 20 years in foods manufacturing, dairy or frozen products

- Experience in greenfield/ brownfield project execution and plant commissioning

- Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks (FSSAI, PCB, Factories Act, Boiler Regulations, central electricity act )

Leadership Traits & Soft Skills:

- Visionary Leadership: Ability to translate strategic goals into operational plans and inspire teams to achieve them

- People-Centric Approach: Builds trust, motivates teams, and fosters a culture of accountability and collaboration

- Effective Communication: Clear and persuasive communicator with strong interpersonal skills across all levels

- Problem Solving & Decision Making: Analytical mindset with a proactive approach to resolving challenges

- Adaptability & Resilience: Comfortable navigating ambiguity and driving change in dynamic environments

- Stakeholder Management: Skilled in managing internal and external stakeholders with diplomacy and professionalism

- Integrity & Compliance: Strong ethical foundation with commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory adherence

Preferred Attributes:

- Experience with automated production systems and cold chain logistics

- Exposure to lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies

- Familiarity with digital tools for production monitoring and reporting

- Proficiency in spoken Kannada