Deputy Plant Manager

Job Description

A. Main Responsibilities

The Deputy Plant Manager is responsible for assisting the Plant Manager in overseeing all plant operations (technical & non-technical), ensuring continuity of leadership, and driving operational excellence across departments.
He/She acts as the second-in-command of the factory and represents the Plant Manager during his/her absence.

Key objectives:

• Ensure operational performance in terms of productivity, cost, quality, safety, and delivery.
• Support strategy development and execution to meet growth and profitability goals.
• Develop strong workforce capability and high-performing teams.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001, BRC, and relevant regulations.
• Coordinate continuous improvement initiatives and operational innovations.

B. Detailed Responsibilities

1. Quality & Management System Leadership

• Support the Plant Manager in ensuring the effectiveness of the Quality Management System (QMS).
• Ensure quality policies, objectives and procedures are implemented and maintained across departments.
• Promote risk-based thinking, process approach, and continuous improvement culture.
• Ensure resources, tools, and training required for QMS are available and effectively utilized.
• Lead or supervise internal audits, corrective actions, and compliance improvement programs.

2. Customer Focus

• Ensure customer requirements are understood and met consistently.
• Support handling critical customer complaints, audits and improvement requests.
• Monitor operational risks/opportunities that may impact customer satisfaction and propose solutions.
• Sustain a strong customer-centric mindset across teams.

3. Manpower & People Development

• Build and maintain a high-caliber workforce through training, performance management, and recruitment.
• Develop manpower planning aligned with production demand and organizational structure.
• Motivate, coach, and guide team members to achieve operational goals.
• Foster a positive working environment and team spirit throughout the factory.

4. Planning & Decision Making

• Support the Plant Manager in developing strategic operational plans.
• Lead improvement initiatives related to technology, production process, systems, and efficiency.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to implement innovations aligned with company mission & vision.
• Assist in preparing annual operational budgets and cost-saving plans.

5. Plant Operations Management

• Coordinate daily factory operations ensuring output, productivity, and quality targets are achieved.
• Drive cost efficiency, inventory control and working capital optimization.
• Review production efficiency reports, analyze variances, and lead action plans for improvement.
• Ensure operational KPI achievement (OEE, scrap rate, manpower efficiency, machine utilization, etc.).
• Lead problem-solving for operational issues and support continuous improvement projects (Kaizen, Lean, 5S).

6. Administration & Compliance

• Ensure all documentation and administrative activities comply with ISO 9001, BRC standards, and company requirements.
• Ensure timely reporting of quality objectives, KPI achievements and operational performance.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental and legal regulations within the factory.

Job Requirement

C. Job Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Management or related fields.

Experience:

• Minimum 6–8 years experience in manufacturing operations, including 5+ years in supervisory/managerial roles.
• Experience in plastics/packaging/FMCG manufacturing (preferred).

Skills Required:

• Strong leadership & team management skills.
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing processes and production systems.
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making and strategic planning skills.
• Good communication skills with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in English and MS Office; knowledge of ERP/MRP is an advantage.
• Strong customer service mindset and continuous improvement orientation.

D. Communication / Job Relationships

Internal:

• Coordinate with Production, QA/QC, Maintenance, HR, Planning, Warehouse and all related departments.
• Report operational performance to Plant Manager and General Director.

External:

• Maintain good relationships with customers, suppliers, machine makers and mold makers.
• Coordinate with authorities and third-party auditors when needed.

E. Authorization

• Act on behalf of Plant Manager during his/her absence.
• Authorization level follows BUP (Business Unit Policy) and company delegation matrix.