Factory Operations Manager – Fruit & Tomato Concentrate Manufacturing

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Factory Operations Manager to lead our modern fruit and tomato concentrate manufacturing plant in Pazardzhik, Bulgaria. The role ensures safe, efficient, cost‑effective, and high‑quality operations while driving productivity and sustainable growth.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Lead production planning, scheduling, capacity utilization, yield improvement and OEE performance.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, waste reduction, automation and cost optimisation.
• Oversee procurement planning, raw and packaging material availability, inventory, warehousing and logistics.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality and regulatory standards such as IFS Food, HACCP and ISO 22000.
• Lead preventive and predictive maintenance, equipment reliability, capital projects and facility improvements.
• Promote a strong Health, Safety & Environmental culture and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Prepare and manage operational budgets, monitor costs and improve productivity and profitability.
• Establish operational KPIs, monitor performance and report results.
• Develop, coach and motivate operational teams, building a high‑performance culture.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Business Administration or related field (Master’s/MBA preferred).
• 8‑10+ years progressive manufacturing/operations experience, including at least 5 years in senior operational leadership.
• Strong experience in food processing, FMCG, consumer goods or manufacturing.

Required skills

• Lean Manufacturing
• Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
• HACCP
• IFS Food
• ISO 22000

What we offer

• EUR 2,000–2,500 net monthly salary plus company benefits.
• Opportunity to lead a modern food manufacturing operation and contribute to operational excellence and business growth.