President / General Manager (Manufacturing & Operations) - #34988

The company is an established manufacturing and export-oriented organization in the Philippines, operating within a high-volume, cost-sensitive production environment. It serves a diverse international customer base through business-to-business channels, supplying products across multiple global markets. The business manages an end-to-end operational model, including sourcing, production, and distribution, with exposure to complex supply chain conditions, fluctuating input costs, and foreign exchange considerations.

It is part of a larger investment group with a diversified portfolio across multiple industries in the Philippines and the broader ASEAN region. The group takes an active ownership approach, working closely with its portfolio companies to strengthen operations, improve financial performance, and support long-term growth.

Overall purpose and responsibilities of the role

The ideal candidate is a hands-on, “nuts & bolts” leader with strong experience in food manufacturing, capable of operating effectively at both the plant and executive level. They are comfortable working in a low-margin, high-volume environment and can drive a shift from volume-focused to margin-focused operations.

They bring a minimum of 10 years of experience in manufacturing, including at least 3 years in a senior leadership role, ideally within seafood processing, tuna canning, or perishable food manufacturing, with exposure to related industries such as FMCG, poultry, meat, or frozen food.

The candidate is able to “speak the language” of both plant managers and finance teams, bridging operational execution with financial strategy.

From a leadership standpoint, they are a team builder who promotes collaboration, communication, and accountability, and is able to address leadership gaps by encouraging input from teams rather than operating with a self-centered approach.

Must-have Skills / Qualification

Minimum 10 years in manufacturing, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role

Experience in seafood processing, tuna canning, or food manufacturing, with flexibility for FMCG, poultry, meat, or frozen food industries

Experience in low-margin, high-volume environments

Proven P&L ownership experience

Strong financial acumen, with the ability to work closely with finance teams and CFOs

Ability to operate at both plant and executive level (“speak the language of the plant manager and the CFO”)

Experience in turnaround situations is preferred

Exposure to international exports, particularly in Asia, Japan, and Europe, is important; however, candidates with general export experience or strong leadership in manufacturing may also be considered.

Experience managing supply chain complexities, including shipping rates, tariffs, and currency fluctuations

Familiarity with listed company regulations is a plus

Responsibilities

Transition operations from volume-focused to margin-focused by optimizing product mix and reducing wastage
Improve manufacturing efficiencies through lean practices, yield optimization, and cost control amid volatile material prices
Oversee global fish procurement, international shipping, and overall supply chain management
Closely monitor input costs, selling prices, and COGS alignment to protect gross margins
Manage forex risks and other financial factors impacting profitability
Work closely with the CFO to analyze financial data, reconcile inventory valuations, and optimize the balance sheet
Re-establish and enforce budget and expense controls across all departments
Ensure accurate, timely, and transparent reporting to management and the Board
Oversee export operations across Europe, Japan, Asia, and emerging markets
Ensure quality control compliance and prevent unauthorized process changes
Stop talent attrition and ensure knowledge transfer across teams
Build a collaborative leadership culture, promoting teamwork, communication, and accountability
Inspire teams to contribute ideas and improve coordination and overall operational performance
Adopt governance practices consistent with that of publicly listed companies

Hybrid

Location: Metro Manila based with scheduled travel to provincial operations (Mindanao-based plant)

Employment: Full-time Employment

Client Direct Hiring

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