Operations Manager

Bwibere B Cell, Uganda

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Are you passionate about Managing teams, operations and technology? Pearl Chips is building a state-of-the-art food facility, and as Operations Manager you will run the heart of our production.

About Us

Pearl Chips is the first Ugandan company offering premium, pre-fried potato chips and wedges. We supply Uganda and the region with high-quality, consistent potato products, helping businesses save time and costs while delivering a superior customer experience.

Responsibilities

Run day-to-day operations of automated production lines, cold storage, and utilities.
Translate company targets into clear production plans and KPIs
Ensure safe, efficient, and reliable manufacturing in line with demand and customer orders.
Monitor performance data and drive actions to improve uptime, productivity, and waste.
Lead and develop supervisors, operators, and technicians; manage shifts and staffing.
Work with QHSE to secure product quality, food safety, and full regulatory compliance.
Coordinate with Maintenance to plan preventive maintenance and minimise downtime.
Collaborate with Supply Chain to secure materials and optimise usage, labour, and utilities.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives and standardise SOPs and best practices

Requirements

Preferred Operations/production management experience in food manufacturing or FMCG.
Demonstrated ability to manage a plant or production area against KPIs
Experience leading shift-based teams
Good understanding of food safety, quality systems, and HSE requirements.
Experience working closely with maintenance and supply chain
Proven problem-solving skills and familiarity with continuous improvement/lean concepts.
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, including experience engaging with government and regulatory bodies.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Food Science, Operations Management, Industrial Management, or related field.
5+ years of manufacturing/operations experience, including team leadership.
Experience in food processing or FMCG is a strong plus.
Strong data skills and comfort with production KPIs and basic digital tools.
Fluency in English; additional regional languages are a plus.

What's great in the job?

Lead operations of a brand‑new, fully automated potato processing facility in a high‑growth segment.
Direct, measurable impact on productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Opportunity to build and shape the factory culture, standards, and systems from early stages.
Work in a collaborative, hands‑on environment where your leadership and expertise are visible and valued.
Long‑term growth opportunities in a stable, essential industry (food production).