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Operations / Plant Manager

Location: Riyadh
Salary: Up to SAR 30,000
Job Code: 230/001/031
Industry: Closed Cell Insulation Manufacturing
Reports To: Group Sales Director  (UAE HQ)

Job Brief:
Our client, a leading UAE-based manufacturing company, is expanding into Saudi Arabia with a new closed-cell insulation manufacturing unit. We are seeking an experienced Operations/Plant Manager who has successfully managed greenfield manufacturing projects within the last three years. This role requires a hands-on leader capable of setting up the factory from the ground up, coordinating with local authorities, finalizing the facility, and eventually leading full-scale operations.

Job Responsibilities:
1. Project Setup & Facility Development
  • Work with local authorities to evaluate and secure suitable factory options (land lease for construction, ready-built factory for rent, or purchase).
  • Lead negotiations and ensure compliance with local legal, regulatory, and environmental requirements.
  • Collaborate with consultants, contractors, and government bodies during factory establishment.
  • Coordinate with the UAE production team to transfer layouts, workflows, and technical know-how.
2. Manufacturing Operations
  • Oversee installation, commissioning, and maintenance of machinery and production lines.
  • Establish production processes, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and safety protocols.
  • Ensure quality assurance systems are aligned with company standards.
  • Develop and implement cost-efficient production and supply chain strategies.
3. Leadership & Team Development
  • Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing local operations team.
  • Drive a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
  • Liaise with the UAE headquarters to align strategic goals and performance metrics.
4. Growth & Expansion
  • Monitor market demand, capacity utilization, and identify opportunities for future expansion.
  • Ensure sustainable operations, balancing cost, productivity, and quality.
  • Drive operational excellence to support sales growth in Saudi Arabia and the wider region.
Job Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical/Industrial/Chemical preferred). A master’s degree is an advantage.
  • 10+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 3 years in greenfield project setup in Saudi Arabia or the GCC.
  • Proven track record of working with Saudi government authorities for industrial permits, land/facility acquisition, and compliance.
  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment installation, and plant commissioning.
  • Experience in insulation, construction materials, or related manufacturing industries preferred.
  • Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Fluency in English required; Arabic proficiency strongly preferred.
Key Competencies
  • Strong project management and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
  • Excellent stakeholder management and cross-cultural communication.
  • Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to execution.

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