About the role

Job Description – Plant Head (Machining & Special Processes Unit)

Location: Saudi Arabia

Position: Plant Head / Unit Head

Department: Operations – Machining & Special Processes

Reports To: Operations Director / COO

Role Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Plant Head to lead our Machining & Special Processes Unit. The role demands a strong technical background in machining of upstream and downstream oil & gas products, and special processes (such as heat treatment, surface treatment, NDT, coatings, and welding). The Plant Head will be responsible for ensuring operational excellence, driving productivity, maintaining world-class quality standards, and achieving delivery targets while ensuring a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership

Lead and manage the overall operations of the Machining & Special Processes unit, covering upstream and downstream products.
Ensure effective utilization of manpower, machinery, and resources to achieve production, quality, and delivery goals.
Drive Lean Manufacturing, 5S, Kaizen, and other operational excellence initiatives.

Technical & Process Expertise

Provide strong technical direction in CNC machining (milling, turning, grinding, etc.), precision machining, and special processes.
Oversee validation and qualification of special processes (e.g., heat treatment, plating, anodizing, various coatings, NDT, welding).
Collaborate with engineering and quality teams for process improvements and new product introduction.

People Management

Lead, mentor, and develop a multi-skilled workforce across production, quality, and maintenance.
Build a culture of accountability, discipline, teamwork, and continuous learning.
Ensure compliance with HR policies and local labour regulations.

Quality & Compliance

Ensure adherence to AS9100 / API / ISO standards and customer-specific requirements.
Maintain zero-defect culture with a focus on first-pass yield.
Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Business & Customer Focus

Lead P&L responsibilities and oversee achievement of overall business targets for the unit.
Meet On-Time Delivery (OTD), cost, and efficiency targets.
Support business development in customer visits, audits, and technical discussions.

Qualifications & Experience:

Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical / Manufacturing Engineering (Master’s preferred).
15+ years of experience in precision machining and special processes, preferably in oil & gas / aerospace / defense sector.
Minimum 5 years in a Plant Head / Unit Head / Managerial role.
Strong knowledge of CNC machining, process engineering, and special process qualifications (API knowledge).
Proven track record of managing upstream and downstream customers with successful delivery performance.
Proven ability in troubleshooting and problem-solving to resolve technical, operational, and process-related challenges effectively.
Experience in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, and automation.
Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Key Competencies:

Strong technical problem-solving skills.
Strategic thinker with operational execution capability.
Hands-on leadership style with ability to motivate teams.
Strong commercial and cost management acumen.
Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

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