Plant Manager

Role Overview

This opportunity is for a Plant Manager to lead a food manufacturing operation in Baghdad, Iraq, specifically in the Abu Ghraib area. The role is focused on factory operations and overall plant management within the FMCG and snack food sector. Candidates should be prepared to relocate to Iraq, as the position will be based there.

Location and Relocation

The position is based in Baghdad, Iraq. Applicants should submit their interest only if they are open to relocating from their current location.

Education

• A bachelor’s qualification is required in Food Science, Food Technology, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Agricultural Engineering with relevance to potato processing.
• A postgraduate MBA or diploma in Operations Management or Industrial Management is considered an advantage.

Professional Background

The role calls for more than 10 years of experience in food manufacturing or FMCG, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership or operations capacity. Strong exposure to snack food or potato chips production for around 5 to 7 years is important. Prior involvement in establishing a plant or production line from the ground up is highly desirable. Experience in the Middle East or other developing markets is also valuable, particularly where it includes familiarity with local supply chains and workforce management.

Technical Knowledge

• Hands-on understanding of potato processing equipment such as washing, slicing, frying, and flavouring systems.
• Knowledge of packaging lines, including vertical form-fill-seal machines and nitrogen flushing setups.
• Familiarity with automation tools used in production, including SCADA and PLC-based systems.
• Working knowledge of raw material handling, oil control, seasoning processes, and potato storage requirements for chip production.

Quality, Safety, and Compliance

• Strong command of food safety frameworks such as HACCP, ISO 22000, and GMP.
• Awareness of Iraq-specific food safety and regulatory expectations, including those linked to the Iraqi Ministry of Health and Environment.
• Experience conducting audits, maintaining traceability, and handling product recall procedures.

Operations and Team Leadership

• Ability to design SOPs and create efficient production workflows.
• Experience recruiting, training, and leading factory teams.
• Capability to manage procurement, local supplier relationships, and logistics.
• Track record of reducing costs and improving operational efficiency through methods such as Lean Manufacturing and Kaizen.

Communication and Working Style

• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to build and motivate a local workforce.
• Arabic fluency is mandatory.
• English proficiency is highly preferred.
• Comfortable working under pressure and resolving operational challenges quickly.
• Must be culturally aware and able to operate effectively within the Iraqi business environment.

Additional Experience

• Exposure to factory construction, plant layout planning, and equipment installation is beneficial.
• Established relationships with regional vendors for potatoes, packaging materials, and flavouring ingredients are an advantage.
• Knowledge of environmental compliance and waste management practices is useful.

Application Note

This is a relocation-based role in Baghdad, Iraq. Only candidates who are willing to move to Iraq should consider applying.