Deputy General Manager(Plant Operations & Technique) – Yekatit Paper Converting PLC

Job Description

Position Overview / Scope of Role:
The Deputy General Manager – Plant Operations is responsible for ensuring the full operational, technical, and process integrity of the manufacturing plant, overseeing end-to-end production activities within the paper converting and packaging value chain.

The role provides executive-level leadership across all plant functions including production, technical operations, maintenance, pre-press, printing, and finishing. The position ensures operational continuity, efficiency, and cost competitiveness while driving modernization and performance improvement initiatives.

The incumbent is accountable for strengthening operational discipline, optimizing production processes, safeguarding critical resources, and ensuring the plant operates at high levels of reliability, quality, and productivity.

Top Roles and Responsibilities:
End-to-End Production and Value Chain Management
• Oversee the full production value chain from order intake, technical costing, pre-press, and design to printing and finishing processes.
• Ensure seamless coordination across all stages of production to achieve efficiency and quality targets.
• Optimize workflow, reduce bottlenecks, and ensure smooth production flow.

Operational Leadership and Plant Performance Management
• Lead all plant operations to ensure high productivity, efficiency, and output quality.
• Monitor and control key production KPIs including output, efficiency, scrap rates, and downtime.
• Ensure continuous plant operation and production reliability.
• Drive performance improvement initiatives across all operational areas.

Technical Oversight and Asset Management
• Oversee all plant machinery, equipment, and technical systems.
• Lead transition from reactive maintenance to structured, performance-based maintenance systems.
• Ensure maximum equipment uptime and operational reliability.
• Manage spare parts planning and technical resource allocation.

Process Optimization and Cost Efficiency
• Drive continuous improvement in production processes and material utilization.
• Reduce waste, scrap, and inefficiencies across production lines.
• Optimize raw material conversion ratios and cost structures.
• Support cost leadership through efficient operations.

Industrial Discipline and Resource Control
• Establish strong operational controls to safeguard critical resources including fuel, materials, and technical labor.
• Ensure disciplined usage and monitoring of operational inputs.
• Maintain strict operational standards to support uninterrupted production.

Quality Assurance and Production Standards
• Ensure all production outputs meet required quality standards and customer specifications.
• Coordinate with quality teams to maintain consistency and reduce defects.
• Support implementation of quality control systems and procedures.

Cross-Functional Coordination
• Ensure strong coordination between production, technical, commercial, and support functions.
• Align production plans with customer demand and order requirements.
• Support timely delivery and customer satisfaction.

Health, Safety, and Compliance Management
• Ensure adherence to safety standards, operational procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Promote a safe working environment and enforce safety discipline.

Operational Risk Management and Continuity
• Identify operational risks and implement mitigation measures.
• Ensure continuity of operations through proactive planning and control systems.

Reporting and Executive Support
• Provide regular reports on plant performance, operational challenges, and improvement initiatives.
• Support the General Manager with operational insights and recommendations.

Leadership and Team Management
• Lead, manage, and develop plant management and technical teams.
• Establish performance expectations, accountability, and discipline.
• Build a high-performing operational team.

Performs other related duties as directed
About You
Educational Qualification:
• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Print/Packaging Engineering, or related field

Experience:
• Minimum 8-10 years of relevant experience in paper converting, flexible packaging, or related manufacturing industries

• At least 4-5 years in managerial or senior leadership roles, directly overseeing production, technical, or plant operations
• Proven experience in managing complex plant operations and technical functions
• Experience in high-performance industrial environments is highly desirable

Critical Criteria / Skills to be Successful in this Role:

• Strong technical expertise in paper packaging and printing technologies
• Deep understanding of industrial production processes and machinery
• Strong operational leadership and problem-solving capability
• Ability to drive efficiency, cost control, and performance improvement
• Strong decision-making and execution capability
• Ability to manage high-pressure operational environments
• Strong coordination and team leadership skills