Operation Director(Shandong)

We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Director of Operations to lead and optimize a major fermentation facility specializing in enzyme production using Aspergillus, Trichoderma and Bacillus. This role has end-to-end oversight of fermentation, downstream processing, drying, packaging, and broader operational functions, including production planning, supply chain, logistics, workplace safety, and implantation of quality systems. A key focus will be on continuous improvement, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence, aligning with the company’s corporate objectives for growth, profitability, and cost efficiency.

In addition, the Director of Operations will guide the integration of a newly acquired site into the company’s global supply chain and operational framework, ensuring seamless alignment with internal standards and external regulatory requirements, and smooth scale up from pilot to industrial scale manufacture. This position requires a strong technical background in industrial fermentation, demonstrated leadership in large-scale manufacturing, and an ability to drive strategic initiatives such as digital transformation and sustainability.

1. Operational Leadership & Strategy

• Oversee Daily Operations of fermentation, recovery, drying, packaging, and related support functions to ensure consistent, high-yield enzyme production.
• Develop Production Schedules and resource allocation plans to meet customer demands, ensuring alignment with S&OP and S&OE processes.
• Drive Operational Excellence by implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, and other continuous improvement methodologies to maximize efficiency and reduce costs.
• Lead Post-Acquisition Integration, aligning newly acquired operations with corporate processes, safety protocols, and compliance standards.

2. Technical & Process Management

• Optimize Fermentation Conditions (with Aspergillus, Trichoderma and Bacillus) to achieve targeted enzyme yields and quality specifications.
• Manage Downstream Processing steps, including separation, semi-purification, drying, and packaging, ensuring robust process control.
• Collaborate with R&D and Engineering teams to implement process improvements, scale-up projects, and introduce new products or technologies (e.g., Industry 4.0, PAT, IoT-based monitoring).
• Maintain and Upgrade Equipment to minimize downtime, enhance efficiency, and support product innovation.

3. Quality, Compliance & Safety

• Ensure Regulatory Compliance with relevant food safety (GMP, HACCP, FSSC 22000, FSMA), environmental/chemical safety (REACH, EPA, FDA), and industry-specific norms (textile, feed, or other as applicable).
• Champion a Zero-Incident Safety Culture, enforcing environmental, occupational health, and risk management best practices.
• Partner with QA/QC Teams to uphold product quality and consistency, supporting audits and external inspections.
• Implement Unified Compliance Measures across newly integrated facilities to meet national and international regulatory standards.

4. Supply Chain, Logistics & Cost Management

• Oversee End-to-End Supply Chain including procurement, materials management, warehousing, and distribution to ensure timely and cost-effective operations.
• Coordinate Sourcing Strategies for raw materials and manage supplier relationships in alignment with production forecasts and inventory control.
• Develop and Manage Budgets for industrial areas, controlling operational expenses and capital expenditures.
• Define KPIs to monitor efficiency, productivity, and cost targets, implementing corrective actions for continuous improvement.

5. Leadership & Organizational Development

• Build and Lead High-Performing Teams in fermentation engineering, production, supply chain, and technical support.
• Foster a Culture of Accountability and innovation, creating ongoing training and development programs to enhance technical competencies and leadership skills.
• Promote Cross-Functional Synergy, working closely with Quality, R&D, Regulatory, and other departments to ensure seamless operations.
• Guide Integration Efforts for employees from acquired entities, aligning them with corporate culture, performance expectations, and safety standards.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. MBA or postgraduate degree in Industrial Management, Supply Chain, or Business Management is a plus.
• 10+ years of experience in large-scale industrial fermentation and enzyme manufacturing, with 5+ years in a leadership or director-level role.
• Solid expertise in downstream processing, drying technologies, enzyme stabilization, and industrial operations management (preferably in feed & food processing, enzyme production, or similar industries).
• Regulatory Knowledge in food safety (GMP, HACCP, FSSC 22000), chemical safety (REACH, EPA, FDA), and environmental sustainability (OEKO-TEX, ZDHC, Bluesign) is highly desired.
• Proven Track Record in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other CI methodologies; experience with digital transformation (Industry 4.0, IoT, AI-driven monitoring) is preferred.
• Excellent Communication & Leadership Skills, with the ability to drive change, collaborate cross-functionally, and inspire high performance.
• Experience with M&A Integration and/or managing complex supply chain transitions is highly advantageous.
• Fluency in English and Chinese required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated success in scaling up fermentation processes and implementing new bioprocessing technologies.
• Familiarity with digital manufacturing, process analytical technologies (PAT), and predictive maintenance tools.
• Strategic Financial Management skills, including cost optimization and capital project justification.

Competencies & Skills

• Strategic Leadership: Ability to set vision, manage teams, and drive alignment with corporate goals.
• Systemic Vision: Holistic understanding of business operations, anticipating impacts and delivering integrated solutions.
• Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Proactively identifies opportunities for improvement and implements value-adding solutions.
• Excellence in Communication: Clear, assertive communication for strategic alignment and team motivation. English and Chinese fluency are a requirement.
• Culture & Engagement: Champions a collaborative, inclusive, and results-driven environment.

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