About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Head Manufacturing & Operations to lead large-scale manufacturing operations within the food and nutraceutical ingredients sector. The role requires a strong technical foundation in Chemical Engineering (preferred) or Food Technology, along with extensive experience in managing commercial manufacturing plants and executing greenfield projects.

This position will play a critical leadership role in scaling manufacturing capabilities, optimizing production efficiencies, and driving operational excellence across facilities.

Key Responsibilities

Manufacturing & Plant Operations

- Lead end-to-end manufacturing operations including production, supply chain coordination, and logistics.

- Drive commercial production targets, capacity utilization, yield improvement, and cost optimization.

- Oversee plant operations (own/third-party manufacturing units).

- Ensure adherence to defined process parameters, SOPs, and batch manufacturing documentation.

- Drive continuous improvement initiatives across production systems.

Greenfield / Brownfield Project Execution

- Lead identification, planning, and execution of large-scale greenfield and brownfield manufacturing projects.

- Work with engineering consultants, equipment manufacturers, and vendors for plant commissioning.

- Manage plant layout, utilities, technology upgrades, and production trials.

- Drive plant commissioning from concept to commercial production stage.

Scale-Up & Technology Transfer

- Lead process scale-up from R&D/pilot stage to commercial production.

- Develop and implement tech transfer protocols and SOPs.

- Collaborate with R&D teams to enhance throughput, efficiency, and yield optimization.

Quality & Compliance

- Ensure compliance with cGMP, food safety, and regulatory standards.

- Oversee QA/QC systems, documentation, and audit readiness.

- Manage certifications such as Kosher, Halal, Organic, and other regulatory requirements.

- Support customer and regulatory audits.

Candidate Profile

Education (Mandatory Preference):

- BE/B.Tech in Chemical Engineering (Preferred) or Food Technology

- Candidates from premier institutes such as ICT Mumbai (highly preferred), IITs, NITs or equivalent reputed institutions will be given strong preference

- MBA in Operations / Supply Chain (preferred but not mandatory)

Experience:

- 15+ years of experience in food, nutraceutical ingredients, natural extracts, or related process industries

- Proven experience in running commercial manufacturing plants

- Hands-on experience in setting up large-scale greenfield projects

- Strong exposure to process scale-up and engineering-driven manufacturing environments

Key Skills

- Deep understanding of process engineering and industrial equipment

- Expertise in plant commissioning and capacity planning

- Strong commercial acumen and operational leadership

- Experience managing third-party manufacturing (3P)

- Ability to drive independent decision-making and scale operations