We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Operations to lead our operational strategies and ensure the seamless functioning of our organization in Dubai, UAE. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in operational management, with a strong focus on optimizing processes, enhancing productivity, and driving growth. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and implementing operational policies, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to align operational objectives with the overall business strategy, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

JOB DESCRIPTION

1. Production Management:

• Directly manage the production processes of polyurethane systems at three manufacturing sites in the UAE and indirectly abroad, ensuring production goals and timelines are met.

• Lead the plant managers at all Pearl production sites outside the UAE. The role includes a relevant amount of travel to all existing and new production sites.

• Supervise and optimize production workflows for polyol blending, pre-polymer, and polyester reaction processes.

• Ensure all production activities comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

• Develop and execute production plans for polyurethane systems to meet customer requirements and delivery schedules.

• Implement inventory management practices to maintain optimal stock levels and reduce inventory costs.

2. Team Leadership and Development:

• Lead, motivate, and manage a diverse team of production personnel, fostering a culture of collaboration, high performance, and continuous improvement.

• Develop new talent across production sites and functions within Operations.

• Ensure adequate staffing and retention across production teams, using various retention methods.

• Oversee training and development programs to ensure team members have the necessary skills to meet evolving operational needs.

• Drive a culture of accountability and performance within the team.

3. Process Optimization:

• Lead initiatives to continuously improve production efficiency, reduce waste, and minimize operational costs while maintaining high quality.

• Identify opportunities for automation, process improvements, and equipment upgrades to enhance production performance.

4. Quality Management:

• Implement and maintain strict quality control processes to ensure consistency and quality in polyurethane production.

• Collaborate with the quality assurance team to perform regular audits and ensure compliance with industry and company standards.

• Conduct regular quality inspections and audits to identify and address any deviations or non-conformities.

• Collaborate with the Quality Control department to implement corrective and preventive actions as needed.

• Support in the development and maintenance of a global Quality Management System.

5. Strategic Planning and Execution

• Develop and implement strategies to improve operational efficiency and profitability.

• Work with the CEO and other executives to set operational goals and align them with the company's strategic direction.

• Work with the CEO and CFO to set up the 5-year Strategy as well as the annual budgets.

6. Global Expansion

• Implement and lead production footprint expansion projects across the world within ambitious timeframes and within defined cost budgets.

• Implement and lead tolling projects – tollers for Pearl as well as Pearl tolling for other parties.

• Develop global asset strategy for Polyester, prepolymer, and Polyol-formulations.

7. Financial Management

• Oversee operational budgeting and cost management.

• Collaborate with the finance department to analyze operational performance and identify cost-saving opportunities and productivity improvements.

• Collaborate with finance department to set up business cases for new production sites and expansion projects.

8. Change Management and Continuous Improvement:

• Drive a culture of innovation, seeking new opportunities for improvement, and effectively managing change across the operations.

• Develop and execute a roadmap for operational excellence, implementing key process changes to meet evolving business needs.

9. Global Lead for Production and Equipment Standards:

• Serve as the global lead for defining, setting, and maintaining production standards, best practices, and equipment protocols for all production sites.

• Work closely with the corporate leadership team to align production and equipment standards with overall business objectives.

10. Health Safety, and Environmental Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations and standards.

• Ensure a safe working environment by enforcing the highest safety standards, conducting regular safety audits.

• Stay updated with regulatory requirements and ensure all production facilities comply with local, regional, and global regulations.

• Promote a culture of safety awareness and adherence to safety protocols among production personnel.

11. Reporting & Data Analytics:

• Monitor, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) for production efficiency, quality control, and operational costs.

• Provide detailed reports on production performance, capacity utilization, and resource management to senior leadership. 

Skills

• Leadership: Ability to lead teams effectively, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and accountability.
• Strategic Planning: Expertise in developing long-term operational strategies that align with organizational goals and drive growth.
• Financial Acumen: Proficiency in budget management, financial forecasting, and resource allocation to ensure operational efficiency.
• Analytical Skills: Strong capability to analyze data and KPIs to identify trends, make informed decisions, and implement improvements.
• Project Management: Experience in managing multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to quality standards.