Position Overview :nnWe are seeking an experienced Plant Manager with deep expertise in pulp and paper manufacturing operations to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) supporting an AI-driven process optimization engagement with a leading paper manufacturer. This is a fractional or project-based role focused on bridging operational expertise with advanced analytics and machine learning initiatives.nnKey ResponsibilitiesnnGuide AI/ML feature engineering and data collection strategy based on operational priorities and process physicsnnValidate model outputs and recommendations for operational feasibility and business impactnnTranslate business objectives (energy efficiency, chemical optimization, quality improvement) into measurable process parameters and KPIsnnSupport hypothesis development and testing around process improvement opportunitiesnnIdentify and explain process interdependencies that affect model accuracy and real-world implementationnnProvide domain context for model interpretationwhy certain patterns matter operationallynnAdvise on data quality issues, anomalies, and their root causesnnSupport pilot implementation, change management, and operational rollout planningnnParticipate in stakeholder discussions with plant operations teams and C-suitennRequired Qualificationsnn15+ years of hands-on experience in pulp and/or paper manufacturing operationsnnProven experience as a Plant Manager,



Operations Director, or equivalent leadership role at a paper/pulp millnnDeep knowledge of paper production processes: pulping (chemical/mechanical), paper machine operations, drying, coatingnnStrong understanding of energy management, chemical consumption optimization, and process control in paper millsnnFamiliarity with SCADA systems, DCS (Distributed Control Systems), and mill instrumentationnnTrack record of driving operational efficiency improvements (cost reduction, yield improvement, energy savings)nnExperience working with data analytics teams or process improvement initiatives (Six Sigma, Lean, etc.)nnAbility to communicate complex operational concepts to non-technical audiences (data scientists, executives)nnRobust analytical and problem-solving skills with comfort working in ambiguous, evolving situationsnnPreferred QualificationsnnExperience with AI/ML applications or data analytics projects in manufacturingnnBackground in kraft paper, specialty paper, or corrugating paper productionnnKnowledge of agro-waste based pulping (bagasse, straw) or sustainability-focused operationsnnExperience at paper mills in India or South AsiannPrior work with external consulting firms or technology partners on operational transformationnnBasic understanding of statistics, predictive modeling concepts, or optimization .

📌 Plant Manager (Surat)
🏢 SRS Business Solutions India Private
📍 Surat