COO/ Head of Operations

Key Responsibilities

•Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with the Group’s vision and growth targets.

•Translate business goals into actionable operational plans for manufacturing, trading, and distribution.

•Establish and track KPIs for production, logistics, sales distribution, and customer service.

•Ensure optimal production planning to meet sales demand while controlling costs.

•Maintain high-quality standards in line with UAE regulatory requirements (ESMA, Dubai Municipality, etc.).

•Oversee preventive maintenance schedules and plant efficiency improvement initiatives.

•Implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement processes.

•Manage the Group’s distribution network across the UAE, including van sales, wholesale delivery, and key account servicing.

•Oversee procurement of raw materials, packaging, and trading goods at optimal cost and quality.

•Optimize warehouse and inventory control systems to reduce wastage and improve order fulfillment.

•Ensure efficient route planning, fleet management, and last-mile delivery performance.

•Prepare and manage operational budgets, cost controls, and profitability targets.

•Conduct regular performance reviews to identify inefficiencies and implement corrective measures.

•Negotiate vendor and service provider contracts to achieve cost savings.

•Ensure compliance with UAE health & safety, environmental, and food safety regulations (HACCP, ISO, ESMA).

•Lead quality control processes across manufacturing and distribution operations.

•Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing operations team across manufacturing,logistics, and distribution.

•Implement training and development programs for staff at all levels.

•Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

•Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Supply Chain, or related field (Master’s preferred).

•Minimum 10–15 years’ experience in FMCG operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role in the UAE or GCC.

•Proven track record in water manufacturing operations and product distribution networks.

•Strong knowledge of UAE regulations for food & beverage manufacturing and trading.

•Expertise in supply chain optimization, cost control, and team leadership.

•Excellent negotiation, analytical, and decision-making skills.

•Fluency in English (Arabic is an advantage).

⸻Key Competencies

•Strategic thinking with operational detail orientation.

•Strong leadership and people management.

•Process improvement mindset (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen).

•Financial acumen and P&L responsibility.

•Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.