MNC - Interim Country Manager India - Aquaculture

A leading international aquaculture company is seeking an experienced and dynamic Interim Country Manager to lead the operational launch and scale-up of its India business, headquartered in Chennai. This is a mission-critical leadership role focused on ensuring efficient, transparent, and high-integrity operations as production ramps up at the end of this month.

Company Overview:

A global leader in sustainable aquaculture, specialising in shrimp genetics, breeding, and nutrition. With a strong international footprint and a mission to transform aquaculture through innovation, the company is expanding rapidly in India. Backed by cutting-edge R&D and world-class broodstock operations, it offers a dynamic, purpose-driven environment for experienced leaders looking to make a tangible impact in a fast-growing sector.

Key Responsibilities

- Oversee daily operations of the production facility and ensure smooth startup and ongoing efficiency.

- Manage and motivate teams (directly manage 5 staff, indirectly oversee 40+ employees) to achieve operational targets.

- Implement and monitor best practices in production, quality, and safety.

- Drive operational efficiency and identify areas for process improvement.

- Uphold company values of integrity, transparency, and sustainability.

- Report regularly to the CEO and collaborate with global teams.

- Navigate local business culture and ensure compliance with company policies, especially regarding financial transactions and employee conduct.

Key Requirements

1. Industry Experience:

- Proven experience in aquaculture or animal health, preferably within the shrimp industry.

- Prior leadership roles in multinational or international agribusiness/aquaculture firm

- Bachelor's degree in Aquaculture, Animal Science, Fisheries, Marine Biology, Business, or related fields (preferred)

2. Operational Leadership: Proven ability to manage production operations and teams in a multinational environment.

3. Experience in strategic planning and execution.

4. Availability to start immediately and commit full-time for the duration of the assignment.

5. Based in South India (Chennai or nearby areas preferred).

Preferred Attributes

- Self-driven, proactive, and able to work with minimal supervision.

- Experience in turnaround or launch-phase environments.

- Demonstrated high ethical standards and ability to maintain strict controls over cash and business processes.

- Sensitivity to cross-cultural management, especially navigating regional challenges and aligning teams with global standards.

- Strong communication and reporting skills for coordination with international leadership.

Opportunity

This interim position offers the potential to transition into a full-time, permanent Country Manager role for the right candidate.