Director of Manufacturing Operations - Edinburgh, United Kingdom - Abercorn Sinclair

Description

Job Description

Manufacturing Director (Central Belt)

Abercorn Sinclair is delighted to present this exciting opportunity with our industry partner MiAlgae.

Founded in 2016, MiAlgae applies leading advances in science and technology to improve food security and reduce the impact of humanity on the planet. The company aims to eliminate reliance on wild-caught fish as a source of omega-3 by harnessing the potential of microalgae as a sustainable and rich alternative source. MiAlgae's zero-waste solution recycles co-products from food and drink production to grow Omega-3-rich micro-algae, returning clean water in the process.

The next few years will see significant investment and growth for the business, we are seeking to appoint an experienced Manufacturing Director to lead the growth of the team, drive production output and deliver process improvements to meet their ambitious goals.

The role:

You will oversee the entire manufacturing process, including raw material sourcing, production, and maintenance, ensuring all quality standards are achieved. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will take a holistic view, considering resource allocation, long-term efficiency, and strategic planning for current and future production sites.

Responsibilities:

· Define long-term objectives for the production department, aligning them with overall business goals.

· Oversee the production and engineering departments, providing full operational oversight of manufacturing personnel including selecting, hiring, and training of employees whilst ensuring routine employee evaluations are carried out and standards are met within the departments.

· Drive operational excellence to minimize downtime and optimize efficiency.

· Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and excellence, whilst driving initiatives to enhance the production process, reduce waste, and maintain product quality.

· Direct all production operations, including raw material procurement, production output, and production-related P&L.

· Plan and manage budgets related to manufacturing operations.

· Efficiently allocate resources (personnel, materials, and equipment) to meet production targets.

· Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality regulations with the production facilities.

· Manage vendor relationships by negotiating with suppliers and vendors to secure favourable terms for equipment, materials, and services.

· Keep abreast of technological advancements, integrating relevant tools and methodologies into manufacturing operations.

· Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, Tech Transfer, Commercial, and Supply Chain, to support product development and commercialisation efforts.

· Analyse production data and performance metrics to identify opportunities for process improvement and cost optimization.

· Manage Change Controls originating from technical teams, ensuring there is a systematic approach to proposing, evaluating, approving, implementing, and reviewing changes within the manufacturing process.

· Lead the strategic expansion of future MiAlgae production sites.

Skills & Experience:

· Proven track record of success in senior leadership roles within manufacturing or production operations.

· Extensive experience overseeing production processes, including raw material procurement, production scheduling, quality control and technology transfer from development to manufacturing.

· Strong understanding of engineering principles, equipment maintenance, and troubleshooting.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across functional areas.

· Previous experience in biotechnology, food production, or related industries is advantageous.

· Familiarity and understanding of regulatory requirements within manufacturing is desirable.

· Working understanding of budgets, cost control and financial implications is desirable.

The Candidate:

The successful candidate will ideally be educated to a degree/master's level in a relevant technical discipline and possess significant, technical expertise, leadership, and strategic thinking to optimise production and drive business growth. They should be results-driven, adaptable, and capable of driving change in a fast-paced production environment.

As a young, early-stage company we are looking for driven individuals with a flexible approach to work, who are natural problem solvers and thrive in a dynamic high-growth environment.

The opportunity:

For the right individual, this is an amazing opportunity to join an exciting, early-stage biotech where you will play a pivotal role in developing their manufacturing/production capability and securing their future success.

In return, you can expect a competitive salary + benefits including options, and the opportunity to work and lead a team truly committed to developing scalable, sustainable solutions.

For a confidential discussion please contact our retained partner, Keith Tocher at Abercorn Sinclair.

About Abercorn Sinclair

Abercorn Sinclair is a specialist, technical recruitment consultancy based in Edinburgh. We provide bespoke talent solutions across the science & technology sectors.