Factory Manager

Eastern Tropical Fruit Company Limited (ETF) is jointly owned by Zambia Fruit Company and Vitaplus Foods Limited, under the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). The Company operates a hybrid fruit and vegetable processing plant located in Katete District, Eastern Province of Zambia.

Role Overview:

The Factory Manager will oversee all factory operations related to fruit and vegetable processing, packaging, and storage. The role includes managing production, maintenance, and warehouse functions to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality operations. Reporting to the General Manager, the Factory Manager shall ensure production schedules are met, quality assurance is enforced, and inventory levels are effectively managed.

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

Production and Operations Management:

• Oversee daily production schedules, ensuring timely and efficient processing of fruits and vegetables.
• Monitor and manage the entire production line, from raw material intake to final product packaging.
• Implement and maintain operational best practices to optimize production capacity and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues to minimize downtime and maintain a continuous workflow.

Quality Control and Food Safety:

• Ensure all products meet the company’s quality standards and comply with food safety regulations.
• Implement and enforce Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and other quality assurance protocols.
• Work closely with the Laboratory Technician and Food Technologist to monitor product quality and resolve any issues.

Team Leadership and Staff Management:

• Supervise, train, and mentor all factory staff, including Production Supervisors, Operators, and Technicians.
• Conduct performance reviews, manage employee schedules, and address any personnel issues.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement among the factory staff.

Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE):

• Ensure all factory operations adhere to safety and health regulations and company policies.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and drills to maintain a safe working environment.
• Manage and report on all safety incidents and implement corrective actions.

Resource Management:

• Oversee the maintenance and repair of all factory equipment and machinery.
• Manage inventory of raw materials, packaging, and other supplies to prevent shortages.
• Control operational costs and manage the factory budget efficiently.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Grade 12 Certificate with five (5) O Levels.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Engineering, Production Management, Food Technology or a related field.
• Professional membership to a relevant body.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, with at least 3 years in a managerial or supervisory role.
• Proven experience in managing a production team and implementing operational strategies.
• Strong knowledge of food safety standards and quality control systems.

Key Skills and Competencies:

• Strong leadership and strategic management skills.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Solid understanding of business operations, governance, and industry processes.
• High-level interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong numerical and financial acumen.
• Ability to translate information into actionable strategies and initiatives.
• Capacity to adapt to legislative and policy changes affecting the industry.

Application Process:

Qualified candidates who are eager to contribute to the success of Eastern Tropical Fruit Company Limited and are willing to be based in Katete District, Eastern Province, should submit their application.

All applications are online by clicking or typing in the web browser and completing the online form below:

www.idc.co.zm/careers/job-vacancies

The deadline for receiving applications shall be 30th September, 2025.

Eastern Tropical Fruits Limited is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.