Job Summary:

The Deputy Plant Manager will support the Plant Manager in overseeing day-to-day operations, ensuring production efficiency, quality control, and compliance with industry standards. This role includes managing personnel, maintaining equipment, optimizing workflows, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to achieve production targets and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Management:
- Assist in planning, organizing, and overseeing daily plant operations to meet production targets.
- Ensure efficient use of resources (raw materials, labor, equipment) to maximize productivity.
- Monitor and troubleshoot production issues to minimize downtime and waste.
- Oversee inventory management, ensuring raw materials and supplies are available as needed.

- Quality Control & Compliance:

- Ensure all dairy products meet quality and safety standards (e.g., HACCP, GMP, FSMA).
- Implement and enforce SOPs for quality and safety.
- Conduct regular audits, inspections, and equipment maintenance checks to maintain quality.
- Collaborate with quality control teams to address any quality or compliance issues.

- Team Leadership:

- Supervise and support production staff, fostering a culture of safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
- Conduct training sessions for staff on production processes, safety practices, and quality standards.
- Motivate team members and participate in performance evaluations with HR.

- Process Improvement:

- Identify and implement process improvements to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve quality.




- Work with cross-functional teams to streamline processes and optimize plant efficiency.
- Stay up-to-date on dairy industry trends and implement relevant best practices.

- Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE):

- Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and company policies.
- Promote a safe working environment and conduct safety training sessions.
- Address potential hazards and ensure all equipment is safe and well-maintained.

- Reporting and Communication:

- Prepare and present daily, weekly, and monthly production and quality reports to the Plant Manager.
- Coordinate with departments like maintenance, procurement, and logistics to support seamless operations.
- Serve as acting Plant Manager in their absence, ensuring continuous operations.

Qualifications:

- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Dairy Science, Food Technology, Engineering, or related field preferred.
- Experience: 5+ years in dairy or food processing industry, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
- Technical Skills: Knowledge of dairy processing equipment, HACCP, GMP, and other quality standards; familiarity with ERP systems and production software.
- Soft Skills: Solid leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills; ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Preferred Certifications:

- HACCP certification
- Six Sigma or Lean certification (preferred but not required)

Key Competencies:

- Strong analytical and organizational skills
- High attention to detail and quality assurance
- Proactive and results-oriented
- Collaborative and able to work in a team-oriented environment

📌 Deputy Plant Manager (Melmaruvathur)
🏢 Lactalis
📍 Melmaruvathur