Our client is an international manufacturing company operating in the food processing and specialty ingredients industry. As part of its expansion in Romania, the company is investing in the modernization and development of a production facility located in Prahova County.
We are looking for an experienced Plant Manager to lead the transformation of the site and, once the modernization phase is completed, ensure its safe, efficient and profitable operation.
This is a senior leadership role with broad responsibility for the overall performance of the facility. The Plant Manager will oversee all key plant functions, including production, quality, maintenance, engineering, logistics, financial performance, people management, health & safety and regulatory compliance.
The successful candidate will play a central role in developing and continuously improving the site's manufacturing operations while building a strong, engaged and high-performing local organization.
The position reports to the company's international management team and involves regular collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders across the wider organization.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead the modernization and operational development of the production facility.
• Take overall responsibility for the safe, efficient and cost-effective day-to-day operation of the plant.
• Develop and implement production plans to ensure efficient, reliable and on-time manufacturing.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, cost efficiency and operational performance.
Manage the procurement of production materials, spare parts and consumables.
• Establish and maintain high standards of product quality, food safety and operational discipline.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP requirements, applicable legislation, health & safety regulations and internal company standards.
• Prepare, monitor and manage the plant's operating budget and costs.
• Identify and implement cost optimization and process improvement opportunities.
• Provide regular operational and financial reporting to the international management team.
• Lead, motivate and develop the local plant team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Maintain constructive relationships with local authorities, service providers, suppliers and other external business partners.
Candidate Profile
• University degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Food Technology or another relevant technical discipline.
• Several years of leadership experience in food processing, food ingredients, biotechnology, animal nutrition, beverages or another relevant process-manufacturing environment.
• Previous experience as a Plant Manager, Production Manager, Operations Manager or in a comparable manufacturing leadership role.
• Proven experience in production planning, plant operations and people management.
• Experience working with HACCP and quality management systems.
• Strong financial and commercial awareness, including experience with budgeting, cost control and operational performance management.
• Experience in KPI-driven manufacturing management.
• Strong leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Fluency in English is essential.