Job Description

Location:

Lusaka, Zambia

Start Date:

January 2026

About Us

Our client is setting up a state-of-the-art greenfield printing and packaging facility in Lusaka, Zambia. We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated

Plant Operations Manager

to lead the setup, commissioning, and initial operations of this landmark project.

This role requires a dynamic professional with both technical expertise and commercial acumen, ideally with experience in

gravure, CI flexo, or UV flexo technologies

.

The Company is part of a conglomerate that has been operating in Africa for over 40 years, and currently employs over 1,500 employees across 5 African countries.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management & Facility Setup

Oversee planning, factory layout, equipment procurement, installation, and testing. Manage project timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.

Government & Regulatory Liaison

Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements (investment authority, environmental agencies, local council, etc).

Construction & Machinery Installation

Monitor construction progress with contractors and subcontractors. Supervise machinery installation with OEM teams and local engineers.

Supplier Sourcing & Importation

Identify and negotiate with suppliers for capex, raw material, and consumables. Manage import logistics with freight forwarders and suppliers.

Recruitment & Team Building

Lead hiring and onboarding of production and operations staff (local and expat).

Sales & Market Development

Engage with clients to identify requirements and expand on existing market studies.

Operations Support (from Q3/Q4 2026 onward)

Support Sales Team in achieving annual sales targets. Oversee production, quality control, and maintenance to ensure smooth operations

Qualifications

Degree in

Printing Technology

(preferred). Or, Bachelor's degree in

Operations, Industrial Engineering, or Business Administration

. Proven experience in

printing & packaging operations

, ideally in gravure, CI flexo, or UV flexo. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Required Experience

At least 10 years of working experience The candidate must have managerial experience in the printing & packaging sector, ideally with experience of gravure or UV flexo or CI flexo technologies, as a production manager Ideally the candidate will have had experience in sales Ideally the candidate will have experience in the labelling industry (Paper, BOPP, PVC, Self Adhesive, etc) Ideally the candidate will have worked in Africa in a managerial capacity

Advantage

ISO certification

HAACP or Food Safety

Kaizen or Six Sigma

Exposure to packaging sector ERP

Experience with SAP S4Hana or similar

What We Offer

Opportunity to lead a

greenfield project

from the ground up. A key leadership role (at least 5 direct reports once operations has begun) in one of Zambia's most exciting new industrial ventures. Competitive compensation package.
Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person