Production Manager - Steel Drums - Kenya

We have an exciting opportunity of Production Manager for our Steel Drums Manufacturing Client based in Nairobi, Kenya.Job Title: Production Manager Location: Nairobi, Kenya Job Purpose:The Production Manager will be responsible for overseeing end-to-end production operations at the steel drum manufacturing plant. The role ensures safe, efficient, and cost-effective production of high-quality steel drums (tight head, open head, conical drums, etc.) in compliance with customer specifications and applicable industry standards. The position drives operational excellence, workforce performance, and continuous process improvement.Key ResponsibilitiesProduction & Operations ManagementPlan, schedule, and supervise daily steel drum manufacturing activities.Ensure production targets are met in terms of volume, quality, cost, and delivery timelines.Monitor and optimize machine utilization including presses, seam welders, corrugators, expanders, flangers, leak testers, and painting lines.Reduce downtime through effective coordination with maintenance.Implement lean manufacturing initiatives to improve efficiency and reduce waste.Quality Assurance & ComplianceEnsure compliance with UN packaging standards and relevant ISO requirements.Oversee quality control processes including seam integrity, leak testing, coating thickness, and dimensional accuracy.Lead root cause analysis and corrective action for defects and customer complaints.Maintain documentation related to quality inspections and audits.Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)Enforce strict safety standards across the production floor.Conduct regular risk assessments and safety audits.Ensure safe handling of steel coils, chemicals, coatings, and machinery.Promote a strong safety-first culture within the plant.Team Leadership & Workforce ManagementLead and supervise production supervisors, engineers, and operators.Manage manpower planning, shift scheduling, and workforce productivity.Conduct performance appraisals and training programs.Develop a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.Cost Control & Performance MonitoringMonitor production costs and implement cost-reduction strategies.Track KPIs such as OEE, scrap rate, downtime, productivity, and rejection rate.Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly operational reports.Improve manufacturing margins through process optimization.Supply Chain & CoordinationCoordinate with procurement for steel coils, components, lacquers, and consumables.Work closely with quality, maintenance, logistics, and sales teams to ensure timely delivery.Support new drum designs, product trials, and customer requirements.Requirement:Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical / Production / Industrial Engineering.MBA or operations certification is an added advantage.8+ years of manufacturing experience.Minimum 4–6 years in steel drum manufacturing or metal packaging industry.Strong exposure to press forming, seam welding, die & fixture handling, coating, and finishing processes.

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