Plant Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Ibadan, Nigeria – Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Job Description

Position: Plant Operations Manager

Company: Nestlé Nigeria Plc

Location: Ibadan, Nigeria

Experience: 5-8 years in manufacturing operations, preferably in food & beverage

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Food Science, or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Department: Operations

Salary: NGN 2,500,000 – NGN 3,500,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Nestlé Nigeria Plc is a leading multinational food and beverage company with a strong heritage of delivering quality nutrition, health, and wellness solutions across the African continent. With state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing facilities, a commitment to sustainable practices, and a focus on local talent development, Nestlé Nigeria plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic growth and food security. The Ibadan plant, strategically located in the heart of Oyo State, serves as a hub for the production of iconic brands ranging from dairy products to powdered beverages, reaching millions of consumers daily. As part of Nestlé’s global network, the company offers unparalleled career pathways, continuous learning, and a culture that values diversity, innovation, and community impact. This is a prime opportunity for professionals seeking to contribute to a world‑class operation while advancing their career in Nigeria Jobs and enjoying the benefits of working for a globally recognized brand.

Job Overview

The Plant Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing the end‑to‑end manufacturing processes at the Ibadan facility, ensuring that production targets are met while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. Reporting directly to the Regional Operations Director, the role involves strategic planning, resource optimization, and cross‑functional collaboration with engineering, quality assurance, supply chain, and human resources teams. The successful candidate will drive continuous improvement initiatives, implement lean manufacturing principles, and champion a culture of operational excellence. This position is central to Nestlé’s mission of delivering safe, nutritious products to the Nigerian market and supports the broader goal of creating sustainable employment and growth in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily plant operations, ensuring production schedules are achieved with minimal downtime.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for productivity, quality, safety, and cost.
• Drive lean manufacturing and Six Sigma projects to improve process efficiency and reduce waste.
• Ensure compliance with local and international food safety standards, including HACCP, ISO 22000, and Nestlé Global Food Safety policies.
• Manage a multidisciplinary team of supervisors, technicians, and operators, fostering a high‑performance culture.
• Coordinate with Maintenance to schedule preventive maintenance and rapid response to equipment failures.
• Oversee inventory control, raw material handling, and finished goods logistics to optimize supply chain flow.
• Develop and manage the plant’s annual operating budget, monitoring expenditures against targets.
• Collaborate with HR on talent acquisition, training, and performance appraisal processes.
• Lead emergency response and crisis management activities, ensuring business continuity.

Required Skills

• Strong leadership and people‑management capabilities with a track record of building high‑performing teams.
• In‑depth knowledge of food & beverage manufacturing processes and equipment.
• Proficiency in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to make data‑driven decisions.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management across multiple functions.
• Familiarity with regulatory compliance, safety standards, and quality management systems.
• Ability to manage budgets, forecast production costs, and drive cost‑saving initiatives.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and production monitoring tools.

Education

The candidate must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Food Science, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline. A Master’s degree or professional certifications such as PMP, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, or Certified Food Safety Professional (CFSP) are highly desirable and will be considered an advantage during the selection process.

Experience

Applicants should possess a minimum of five to eight years of progressive experience in plant operations within the food & beverage sector, with at least three years in a supervisory or managerial role. Experience in large‑scale manufacturing environments, exposure to international standards, and a proven record of delivering operational excellence are essential.

Salary

Competitive monthly remuneration ranging from NGN 2,500,000 to NGN 3,500,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, pension contributions, and other employee benefits.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and medical insurance for employee and dependents.
• Pension scheme (Contributory Pension Scheme – CPS).
• Annual performance bonus linked to plant KPIs.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Generous paid leave, including annual, sick, and maternity/paternity leave.
• Company‑sponsored transportation or travel allowance.
• Discounts on Nestlé products and partner services.

Training

• Onboarding program covering Nestlé’s global standards, safety protocols, and operational procedures.
• Continuous professional development through internal academies, external certifications, and leadership workshops.
• Access to Nestlé University online learning platform for skill enhancement.
• Mentorship opportunities with senior executives across the region.

Working Environment

The Ibadan plant offers a modern, well‑equipped manufacturing environment that adheres to stringent safety and hygiene standards. Employees work in collaborative spaces, with access to advanced machinery, automated production lines, and real‑time monitoring systems. Nestlé promotes a culture of inclusivity, respect, and empowerment, encouraging employees to voice ideas and contribute to sustainable initiatives that benefit the community and the environment.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the Nestlé Careers portal. Applications will be screened by the Talent Acquisition team, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment at the Ibadan facility. The recruitment process aims to be transparent, efficient, and fair, ensuring the best fit for both the candidate and Nestlé.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Nestlé Nigeria Plc is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are valued, respected, and given equal chances to thrive. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Join us and be part of a team that drives positive change across Nigeria Jobs, contributing to the nation’s growth and prosperity.