Operation Director (Southern Thailand)

Job Description About Our Client Our client is a well-established, sustainability-led manufacturer with several decades of heritage and a strong international reputation. The business operates under a clearly defined sustainability philosophy built around zero-waste production, eco-efficiency, and genuine community impact making this a rare opportunity to lead operations where commercial performance and sustainability are equally weighted. Job Description • Lead and optimise all plant operations across production, engineering, maintenance, supply chain, and quality assurance • Develop and execute long-term operational strategy and annual budgets aligned to growth and profitability targets • Establish and govern KPIs across production yield, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness • Champion and advance the company's zero-waste manufacturing process, maximising utilisation of sustainable materials • Drive carbon-footprint reduction, energy optimisation, and sustainable waste management initiatives • Ensure full compliance with international environmental standards and eco-certifications • Maintain rigorous quality systems meeting relevant international product safety standards • Embed a Safety First culture in full compliance with Thai labour law and occupational health regulations • Lead, develop, and inspire the factory management team and wider workforce toward a high-performing, inclusive culture The Successful Applicant • Bachelor's degree or higher in Industrial / Mechanical Engineering, Factory Management, or a related discipline • 10–15 years in manufacturing plant operations, including a minimum of 5 years at Plant Director / Operations Director level • Experience within consumer goods or related manufacturing is highly advantageous • Strong expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, JIT, and continuous improvement methodologies • Demonstrable passion for sustainable manufacturing and circular-economy principles • Proven financial acumen across budgeting, P&L management, and CAPEX planning • Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and conflict-resolution capability across a large, diverse workforce • Fluent in Thai with an excellent command of English for international stakeholder engagement What's on Offer • A senior leadership mandate with full operational ownership and direct line to the Managing Director • The opportunity to lead a purpose-driven business where sustainability is core, not peripheral • A competitive executive remuneration package commensurate with experience