Operations Manager / Plant Manager - Singapore River

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Operations Manager / Plant Manager to lead the full setup, establishment, and management of a new manufacturing factory in Singapore. The successful candidate will be responsible for COO application, supervise plant operations, including production, quality, logistics, compliance, while ensuring compliance with Singapore’s trade and export regulations, including Certificate of Origin (COO) requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the application process for Singapore’s Certificate of Origin (COO), ensuring compliance with export regulations.
• Lead the end-to-end process of factory setup, including site selection, facility layout, equipment installation, recruitment, and operational readiness.
• Manage day-to-day plant operations, covering production, quality assurance, inventory, logistics, and maintenance.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Quality Management Systems (QMS), and health & safety protocols in line with ISO and local standards.
• Monitor and control operational budgets, costs, and KPIs to drive efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing operations team to achieve productivity, quality, and safety goals.
• Collaborate with supply chain, procurement, sales, and other departments to ensure seamless coordination across functions.
• Establish and monitor continuous improvement initiatives to optimize workflows, reduce waste, and improve production yields.
• Ensure full compliance with regulatory, environmental, and labour laws applicable to the manufacturing sector in Singapore.
• Report regularly to senior management on plant performance, challenges, and improvement plans.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or related field.
• Proven experience managing the Certificate of Origin (COO) application process in Singapore.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in plant operations management or factory setup.
• Strong knowledge of Singapore’s export, trade compliance, and manufacturing regulations.
• Demonstrated success in setting up and leading a new plant or production facility.
• Excellent leadership, team building, and communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and analytical abilities.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on, startup-like environment.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken); Mandarin proficiency is an advantage.