Operations Director at Bles Dairies

Key responsibilities

• Own day-to-day execution across the full operational chain
• Act as the primary escalation point for operational issues
• Ensure continuity, reliability and service consistency as volumes grow
• Introduce structure, discipline and predictability through clear processes
• Define and enforce SOPs, KPIs and ownership across functions
• Drive planning rhythms linking sales, production, logistics and finance
• Oversee depot operations, inventory control and national distribution
• Optimize logistics flows, fleet utilization and last-mile delivery
• Balance service levels with cost control and operational efficiency
• Ensure alignment between production planning and market demand
• Oversee operational performance of field and contracting activities
• Own operational systems, reporting and data integrity
• Build operations that are process-driven rather than people-dependent
• Lead, manage and develop operational teams across multiple locations
• Set standards, hold teams accountable and create a strong execution culture

Candidate profile

We are looking for a senior operations leader with a proven track record running complex, growing businesses in an emerging market.

You combine practical judgment with structure and are comfortable in the field, at depots, or reviewing performance data. You understand how operations function in emerging markets and know how to scale without overcomplicating. You have experience managing depot-based supply models, wide SKU ranges, and route-to-market execution serving customers across multiple locations.

• Proven experience in operations leadership within agribusiness, FMCG, logistics or food value chains
• Strong understanding of production planning, logistics and service delivery
• Experience building structure and discipline in growing organizations
• A hands-on leadership style with the ability to manage and motivate teams
• Comfort operating in emerging markets; East Africa experience is a strong plus
• Ability to work closely with senior leadership as a trusted operational counterpart
• A pragmatic mindset with focus on execution, reliability and results
• A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent level of education)