Production Director (Can Tho)

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Planning & Production Management

• Develop and implement the annual Production OGSM (Objectives, Goals, Strategies, and Measures).
• Establish and optimize the production organization structure, workforce allocation, and production line layouts to maximize operational efficiency.
• Develop and execute production plans based on demand forecasts, ensuring achievement of production volume, quality, and delivery targets.
• Coordinate with Supply Chain, Procurement, QA/QC, and other relevant departments to align production schedules and resource requirements.
• Collaborate with HR to plan workforce recruitment and manpower allocation to support production needs.

Production Operations Management

• Lead and oversee all production activities to ensure compliance with established procedures, quality standards, food safety regulations, and production schedules.
• Monitor production performance through Production Managers and Supervisors, ensuring effective workforce deployment and operational efficiency.
• Balance production capacity across manufacturing lines and facilities to optimize productivity and resource utilization.
• Report production performance, challenges, and improvement initiatives to the COO/CEO.

Equipment, Maintenance & Asset Management

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of machinery and equipment.
• Coordinate with the Engineering/Maintenance team to ensure equipment reliability and minimize downtime.
• Ensure proper storage, handling, and control of raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods to prevent loss, damage, or quality issues.

Process Improvement & Quality Assurance

• Lead the development, review, and improvement of manufacturing processes and quality management systems.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to implement best manufacturing practices and advanced food processing technologies.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Ensure compliance with GMP, HACCP, BRC, BSCI, IFS, ISO, and other relevant food industry standards.

Team Leadership & Talent Development

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing production organization.
• Train, coach, and mentor Production Managers, Supervisors, and production employees.
• Develop succession plans and build leadership capabilities within the production team.
• Promote the adoption of production management software, digital tools, and automation technologies.

Technology & Facility Development

• Participate in technology and innovation initiatives to improve manufacturing capabilities.
• Lead equipment upgrades, automation projects, and investment in new manufacturing technologies.
• Design and optimize production layouts to improve efficiency and ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene requirements.

Health, Safety & Workplace Management

• Maintain a safe, hygienic, and productive manufacturing environment.
• Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations, food safety requirements, and fire prevention standards.
• Foster positive employee relations and promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Reporting & Other Duties

• Prepare and submit periodic production reports and performance analyses.
• Communicate company policies and operational updates to production teams through line management.
• Perform other duties and projects assigned by the COO/CEO.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree or above in Food Technology, Engineering, Industrial Management, Business Administration, or related fields.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of experience in manufacturing and production management.
• At least 3 years of experience in a Production Director or equivalent senior leadership role.
• Proven experience in food processing/manufacturing companies; experience in fruit processing is highly preferred.
• Strong track record in managing large-scale production operations and leading cross-functional teams.

Technical Knowledge

• Solid understanding of manufacturing operations, production planning, and supply chain coordination.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, 5S, Kaizen, Continuous Improvement, and Operational Excellence principles.
• In-depth understanding of food safety and quality standards, including GMP, HACCP, BRC, BSCI, IFS, ISO, and related certifications.
• Knowledge of modern food processing technologies, automation systems, and production management software.

Leadership & Management Skills

• Strategic planning and execution.
• Organizational leadership and people management.
• Change management and continuous improvement.
• Coaching, mentoring, and talent development.
• Performance management and team motivation.

Professional Skills

• Production planning and scheduling.
• Problem-solving and decision-making.
• Project management.
• Communication and stakeholder management.
• Negotiation and influencing skills.
• Presentation and reporting skills.
• Cross-functional collaboration and teamwork.

Personal Attributes

• Strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Innovative mindset with a passion for continuous improvement.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Positive attitude and strong collaboration skills.
• Eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies and business requirements.