Technical Operations Manager

Role Overview

A Hay processing company in Kenya, seeks an accomplished, self-driven technical operations manager to
ensure optimal operation of the hay processing factory.

Role objective

To oversee and manage the end-to-end technical and operational functions of a hay processing and export facility — ensuring consistent quality, high throughput, equipment reliability, and adherence to export specifications required by international buyers (particularly in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region). The Technical Operations Manager ensures that harvesting, drying, baling, and packaging processes are carried out efficiently and in compliance with phytosanitary, moisture, and nutritional standards for animal feed export

Key Responsibilities

1. Production & Processing Management

Ø Plan, coordinate, and supervise hay intake, sorting, drying, chopping, compacting, and baling operations.

Ø Ensure optimal moisture content, texture, and nutrient retention as per export specifications.

Ø Develop and implement daily/weekly production schedules aligned with export orders.

Ø Monitor yield, quality, and throughput efficiency across processing lines.

Ø Oversee loading and containerization of hay bales for export.

2. Technical & Process Optimization

Ø Ensure proper functioning of processing machinery such as mowers, rakes, tedders, balers, conveyors, and compaction units.

Ø Implement preventive maintenance and reliability programs for all mechanical and electrical equipment.

Ø Optimize drying and storage conditions to prevent mold, contamination, and nutrient loss.

Ø Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce waste.

3. Quality Assurance & Compliance

Ø Enforce strict quality control at all stages — from field intake to final bale.

Ø Ensure compliance with export requirements: moisture %, bale density, weight, and cleanliness.

Ø Liaise with KEBS, KEPHIS, and other regulatory agencies for inspection and certification.

Ø Maintain documentation for traceability, batch records, and phytosanitary certificates.

Ø Conduct regular audits to maintain consistency with Saudi import standards and client requirements.

4. Logistics & Export Coordination

Ø Oversee logistics planning for transport of hay from farms to the processing site and then to port.

Ø Coordinate with freight forwarders, clearing agents, and shipping lines for export schedules.

Ø Monitor container loading and fumigation activities as per export standards.

Ø Optimize storage, inventory, and dispatch to reduce demurrage and wastage.

5. Safety, Health & Environment (SHE)

Ø Ensure safe operations of all plant equipment and vehicles.

Ø Implement dust control, fire prevention, and occupational safety programs.

Ø Promote a safety-first culture among all staff and operators.

Ø Ensure compliance with NEMA and county environmental regulations.

6. Team Leadership & Performance Management

Ø Lead and develop teams of operators, maintenance staff, and quality controllers.

Ø Set operational targets and evaluate performance based on KPIs.

Ø Conduct technical training on equipment handling, bale quality, and safety.

Ø Promote teamwork and accountability across departments.

7. Data, Reporting & Budget Control

Ø Track key operational metrics such as daily tonnage processed, downtime, moisture variance, and bale rejection rate.

Ø Prepare periodic reports for management and export clients.

Ø Manage operational budgets and control costs related to fuel, maintenance, and logistics.

Qualifications & Experience

Education

Ø Bachelor's Degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.

Ø Diploma in Agriculture, Agribusiness, or Plant Operations will be an added advantage.

Ø Experience

Ø 5+ years of experience in agro-processing, feed manufacturing, or post-harvest operations.

Ø Strong knowledge of hay or forage handling, drying, and baling technology.

Ø Experience with export-oriented production or ISO 22000 / HACCP systems preferred.

Ø Familiarity with export compliance (KEPHIS, KEBS, NEMA, and customs procedures).

Key Competencies

Ø Leadership and people management.

Ø Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Ø Excellent planning and coordination skills.

Ø Attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Ø Effective communication and stakeholder management.

Ø Integrity, reliability, and adaptability to field and factory conditions.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Ø Tonnes of hay processed per day/week.

Ø Percentage of export-grade bales produced.

Ø Quality parameters consistency within specified limits.

Ø Downtime vs uptime ratio.

Ø Cost per tonne processed.

Ø Safety and compliance records.

Ø On-time delivery and shipment accuracy.

If you meet the qualifications,Send your CV,Cover Letter Certificates & Testimonials to
by 17th October 2025.