Production Manager (Plastic Bag Manufacturing)

Key Responsibilities 1. Production Planning and Management Develop and implement production plans in line with customer demand and business objectives. Monitor daily, weekly, and monthly production schedules to ensure on-time delivery. Optimize production capacity and resource utilization to maximize efficiency. Ensure production targets are achieved while maintaining quality, cost, and delivery requirements. Resolve production issues promptly to minimize disruptions. 2. Quality Management Ensure all products meet company quality standards and customer specifications. Collaborate with QA/QC teams to maintain and improve product quality. Monitor and reduce defect rates, scrap, and production waste. Lead root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA). Promote continuous quality improvement through PDCA, Kaizen, and Lean initiatives. 3. Productivity and Continuous Improvement Drive productivity improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing efficiency. Implement Lean Manufacturing, TPM (Total Productive Maintenance), OEE, and Continuous Improvement programs. Analyze production performance data and identify opportunities for process optimization. Improve machine utilization while reducing downtime and operational costs. 4. Equipment and Maintenance Management Coordinate with the Engineering and Maintenance teams to ensure maximum machine availability. Oversee preventive and predictive maintenance programs. Monitor the performance of key production equipment, including: Blown Film Extrusion Machines Flexographic Printing Machines Slitting Machines Bag Making Machines Minimize production losses caused by equipment breakdowns. 5. People Management Plan and manage manpower according to production requirements. Lead, coach, and develop supervisors, engineers, and production employees. Conduct performance evaluations and identify training and development needs. Foster teamwork, employee engagement, and a high-performance culture. Promote effective communication across all production teams. 6. Cost Management Control manufacturing costs, including labor, raw materials, utilities, and overhead expenses. Monitor production budgets and identify cost-saving opportunities. Improve operational efficiency while maintaining product quality and safety standards. Analyze manufacturing cost reports and implement corrective actions. 7. Safety, Health, Environment, and Compliance Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety regulations. Promote a strong safety culture and achieve zero lost-time accidents. Ensure compliance with company policies and international standards such as: ISO 9001 ISO 14001 ISO 45001 GMP BRCGS (where applicable) Support environmental sustainability initiatives and waste reduction programs. 8. Performance Reporting Prepare and present production performance reports to senior management. Monitor departmental KPIs and implement improvement action plans. Participate in management meetings and provide recommendations for operational excellence. Support investment projects involving new equipment, automation, and production technology. Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree or higher in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field. Experience Minimum 8–10 years of experience in manufacturing operations within the plastic or flexible packaging industry. At least 3–5 years of managerial experience leading production teams. Experience in plastic bag manufacturing, blown film extrusion, flexible packaging, or food packaging industries is highly preferred. Technical Knowledge Strong knowledge of plastic bag manufacturing processes, including: Blown Film Extrusion Flexographic Printing Lamination (preferred) Slitting Bag Making Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, TPM, OEE, Kaizen, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement methodologies. Strong understanding of manufacturing cost control and productivity improvement. Familiarity with quality management tools such as 7 QC Tools, Fishbone Diagram, 5 Why Analysis, and FMEA. Experience with ERP or SAP systems is an advantage. Knowledge of food packaging standards and regulatory requirements is preferred. Skills Strong leadership and people management skills. Excellent production planning and organizational abilities. Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Decision-making under pressure. Project management and continuous improvement capabilities. Effective communication and cross-functional coordination. Change management and team development. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and ERP/SAP systems. Core Competencies Leadership Strategic Thinking Results Orientation Continuous Improvement Mindset Problem Solving and Decision Making Team Development and Coaching Customer Focus Accountability Collaboration Safety and Quality Mindset Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Production Plan Achievement ≥ 98% Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) Machine Downtime Scrap/Waste Rate Defect Rate (PPM or %) On-Time Delivery (OTD) Manufacturing Cost per Unit Labor Productivity Safety Performance (Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate) Continuous Improvement Projects Completed Employee Engagement and Team Development