Pack House Manager at Bollard Consulting Limited

• We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Pack House Manager for our client, an exporter of premium Avocados, cold-pressed Avocado Oil, Macadamia, and Mangoes. This will be the overall head of the factory operations. This pivotal role involves overseeing all pack house operations while driving the strategic vision of the company. Based in Embu County, the Pack House Manager will be responsible for managing day-to-day operations, optimizing production efficiency, enforcing compliance with quality, food safety and customer specifications, and leading a high-performing operations team to maintain our position as an industry leader.

Reporting to: Managing Director

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership and Management:

• Provide strategic leadership to ensure functional excellence across all operational departments.
• Take lead in the recruitment, training, and performance management of pack house staff.
• Develop and implement policies and Standard Operating Procedures to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Represent the company in meetings with stakeholders, partners, and regulatory bodies.

Operational Oversight:

• Supervise all pack house activities, including sorting, grading, packing, and storage of all products.
• Ensure efficient management of supply chains from farm gate to export.
• Maintain inventory accuracy and monitor stock levels to meet market demand and customer specifications
• Coordinate the use and maintenance of pack house machinery and infrastructure.

Quality Assurance and Compliance:

• Enforce adherence to international quality and food safety standards, including phytosanitary requirements.
• Monitor product quality and safety at every stage of the production line ensuring regulatory compliance and customer satisfaction.
• Oversee compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.

Business Development:

• Identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction.
• Support marketing and sales initiatives to strengthen relationships with international buyers.
• Collaborate with farmers and suppliers to maintain a consistent supply of premium products.
• Develop and manage the annual operations budget, ensuring profitability.

Sustainability and Innovation:

• Champion sustainable practices in line with the company’s environmental objectives.
• Explore and advice on technological innovations to enhance production efficiency and reduce waste.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or related field. A Master’s degree is an added advantage.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in pack house management, food processing, or agribusiness, preferably in horticulture.
• Proven experience in leading diverse teams and managing large-scale operations.
• Strong understanding of global product requirements, particularly in Europe, and relevant sustainability, quality and safety standards (e.g., GLOBAL G.A.P., FSSC 22000, BRC).
• Knowledge of sustainability practices and emerging trends in the food industry including the avocado, macadamia and dried fruits industries.

Key Competencies:

• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety.
• Effective communication and people management skills.
• Proficiency in project management and budgeting
• High levels of integrity and accountability.