Manufacturing Manager

A specialist in the development and sale of Asian food is looking for a Manufacturing Manager with strong manufacturing management experience to lead product development, manage technology implementation in food manufacturing, and oversee the acquisition and operations of manufacturing companies across the EMEA region.

The role involves building a network within the food manufacturing sector, fostering relationships, and ensuring the successful integration of acquired companies to enhance the company's presence in niche markets. The role will also heavily involve new product development and R&D.

TYPE: Full-time, initially 1 year contract

WORKING HOURS: 9:00-17:30 from Monday to Friday, travel to France and Eastern Europe regularly is also necessary

SALARY: €100,000 – €125,000, plus good benefits

START: ASAP

LOCATION: Amsterdam

Manufacturing Manager Main Responsibilities

Lead The Product Development Activities

• Establish and lead the product development function as a new company initiative
• Build strong relationships with departments like marketing, sales, and food safety to ensure smooth collaboration on new product initiatives.

Build Network of Manufacturers

• Actively develop a network including the small manufacturing sector, focusing on identifying potential partners for OEM collaborations
• Manage contract manufacturing and subsidiary MFG company
• Lead implementation of developed product into contract manufacturer
• Ensure subsidiary manufacturing operations comply with industry regulations and company standards while pursuing continuous improvement initiatives to boost competitiveness
• Support business units in advising on new builds for Manufacturing and Warehousing

M&A Activities

• Develop pipeline of potential new acquisitions and joint ventures
• Direct the acquisition process of manufacturing companies, from scouting potential targets to negotiating deals and overseeing the integration of these entities into the company’s structurel>
• Ensure that M&A activities align with the company’s strategic goals and contribute to the strengthening of its market position in niche segments

Manufacturing Manager Ideal Candidate

• Degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Food Science or related field
• At least 5 years of experience in product development and manufacturing management in small to medium size businesses
• Business level of fluency in English
• Demonstrated ability in leading innovative projects and product introductions in specialized market segments
• Experience managing complex manufacturing operations and a thorough understanding of the regulatory landscape specific to food production
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with a proven ability to inspire and direct diverse teams.
• Exceptional negotiation and communication abilities, adept at fostering relationships with key stakeholders to develop a network and advance business goals
• Strategic and analytical thinker, capable of identifying niche opportunities and executing plans with precision
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Creative thinking and problem‑solving skills
• Excellent time management skills
• Some understanding of Japanese culture and Japanese language would be advantageous
• Knowledge of European manufacturing in multiple countries, and understanding of Global business and SME approaches
• Food Manufacturing experience
• All applicants for the Manufacturing Manager must have the right to work in the Netherlands without any restrictions as the Company is not able to offer visa support.