Operational Officer- Agrochemicals, Nairobi at Emerge Egress Consulting

Competitive Remuneration Offered

Role Objective

Our client in the Agrochemicals space is seeking an Operations Officer.  You are essentially the engine room of the business overseeing the operational activities at every level of the organization to ensure they run smoothly.

You sit at the intersection of supply chain logistics, field operations, marketing, finance and customer service, ensuring that clients’ needs are met and satisfaction is attained while meeting production and sales demands in a cost-optimized, safe and environmentally responsible manner. This role requires a blend of high-level planning and problem-solving.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee all company operations, facilities and operations staff
• Define direction and goals of plant activities and create alignment with and among teams
• Find opportunities to increase efficiency and reduce costs
• Improve operational systems, processes and policies
• Coordinate the purchasing of inputs, or machinery from global and local suppliers.
• Monitor stock levels across various regional hubs to prevent \"stock-outs\" during peak seasons.
• Ensure that all products (especially perishables or chemicals) are stored according to safety and regulatory standards.
• Oversee the transport of goods from warehouses to remote areas.
• Minimize delivery costs and time through strategic planning of distribution paths.
• Oversee the maintenance schedules for vehicles, machinery and other equipment.
• Track KPIs such as delivery lead times, order fulfillment rates, and operational costs.
• Ensure all operations comply with agricultural laws, environmental regulations, and safety protocols (OSHA).
• Communicate and build relationships with external and internal teams
• Monitor processes to see if they are on track to complete goals
• Manage, coach and mentor operations staff by growth plans
• Apply a strong understanding of people and performance management processes
• In liaison with sales departments manage delivery logistic – a vital operation.
• Be in-charge of local purchases and creditors balances for settlement at the end of the month.
• In consultation with sales team and warehouse supervisor ensure there are adequate supplies of re-packed stocks and re-packaging materials.
• Act as a liaison with state and local government agencies and the company
• Recruit, train and supervise staff
• Ensure that good housekeeping and safe operating procedures and practices are followed throughout the facilities.
• In-charge of repairs and purchases of spare parts for the Company automobiles, equipments and machines.
• Ensure that the warehouse and office premises area are in good condition, utilities are functional and there are adequate supplies.
• Ensure smooth facilitation of fortnight expense budget based on staff requisition and operational requirements.
• Assist in managing casual staff.
• Any other duties as assigned.

Job Specifications and Qualifications 

• Bachelors Degree in Agribusiness, Business Administration, or Supply Chain Management.
• Basic accounting/procurement knowledge is an advantage.
• At least 5 years relevant experience in a busy SME on automobile maintenance, logistics and/or procurement management.
• Possession of a clean motor vehicle driving license.

Key Competencies

• Strong Supervisory Skills
• Crisis Management and Problem Solving Skills, 
• Negotiation Skills 
• High Emotional Intelligence skills
• Excellent Interpersonal Communication skills.