Lead - Refinery Plant at MSVL Group

About the Role

We invite applications from suitably qualified candidates for the position of Lead - Refinery Plant with MSVL Group in Nairobi, Kenya.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Operations Management

• Lead refinery production to meet output targets and ensure quality standards
• Apply best practices including 5S, Lean, TPM, and Six Sigma methodologies
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and coordinate with planning, logistics, and procurement teams for smooth operations

Stock Variance & Material Accountability

• Oversee raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods stock reconciliation
• Address variances and maintain accurate material balances
• Collaborate with inventory, warehouse, and finance teams

Efficiency, Performance & Optimization

• Improve yields, energy efficiency, OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), and productivity
• Identify and resolve operational bottlenecks
• Support automation and digitalization projects

Maintenance Coordination

• Coordinate preventive and breakdown maintenance activities
• Ensure equipment reliability and support scheduled shutdowns
• Uphold safety and technical standards

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Enforce quality, ISO, environmental, and safety requirements
• Conduct audits and promote a strong safety culture

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and mentor production teams
• Build team capability and drive continuous improvement

Performance Indicators

Success will be measured by:

• Meeting production volumes and quality standards
• Minimizing stock variance
• Improving OEE, yield, and recovery rates
• Enhancing energy efficiency
• Ensuring safety and quality compliance
• Reducing downtime
• Strengthening team capability

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering (Master's degree preferred)
• 8-15+ years of experience in edible oil refinery operations
• Strong knowledge of refinery processes, utilities, DCS/SCADA systems, and mass balance calculations
• Proven expertise in production planning, process optimization, and efficiency improvement
• Experience with maintenance systems (CMMS) and preventive maintenance programs

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Leadership and communication skills with high ownership and attention to detail
• Proficiency in Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, and OEE methodologies
• Experience with continuous improvement initiatives and data-driven operational decisions
• Ability to manage pressure and multiple priorities effectively