Director of Operations – Jamaica

Location: Jamaica, Kingston
Industry: Food Processing & Distribution – Beef, Poultry, Fish/Seafood
Reports To: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Salary: $120,000 to $160,000 USD dependant on experience
Type: On-site Full-time
Requirements: Open to Jamaican and Caricom candidates only

Job Summary:
The Operations Director will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the food manufacturing company, ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and compliance with industry regulations. This role involves managing production, supply chain, quality control, and logistics while driving operational excellence and cost-effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance efficiency, profitability, and sustainability.
• Oversee seafood processing, packaging, and distribution operations to ensure compliance with health, safety, and quality standards.
• Manage supply chain logistics, including procurement, inventory control, and vendor relationships.
• Ensure compliance with local and international seafood industry regulations, including HACCP, FDA, and other relevant guidelines.
• Optimize production workflows and implement best practices to reduce waste and increase yield.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of operations and production staff to achieve performance targets.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing teams to align operational capabilities with market demand.
• Monitor financial performance, manage budgets, and control operational costs.
• Implement sustainability initiatives, including responsible sourcing and waste management.
• Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers, government agencies, and key stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities for technological improvements and automation to enhance operational efficiency.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in operations management, preferably in the cold / frozen food processing industry.
• Strong understanding of cold food processing techniques, cold chain logistics, and quality assurance protocols.
• Proven track record in managing large teams and driving operational improvements.
• Knowledge of Jamaican and international food regulations and industry standards.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership skills.
• Ability to analyze data and use metrics to drive operational success.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in relevant software tools for operations and supply chain management.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and ability to implement long-term operational plans.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Adaptability to a dynamic and fast-paced industry environment.
• Commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Performance-based incentives.
• Health and wellness benefits.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Relocation support (if applicable).