Cashew Processing Plant Manager (M/F)

About the role

A fast-growing international agro-industrial group is looking for an experienced, bilingual (French and English) Cashew Processing Plant Manager to report directly to the Managing Director. The role covers overall site operations, operational performance, workplace safety and the strategic development of the processing plant, including the construction and commissioning of a new Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL) extraction line.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end kernel processing (shelling, peeling, grading, colour sorting, packaging) to meet production volume and yield targets.
• Lead the construction, equipment installation, dry testing, commissioning and ramp-up of the new CNSL line, meeting deadlines, budgets and safety standards for oil extraction and refining.
• Ensure compliance with international food safety standards (BRC, IFS, HACCP, ISO 22000) and implement EHS policies, with special attention to chemical risks, heat hazards and effluent treatment in the CNSL unit.
• Lead and mentor cross-functional teams (production, maintenance, QA, EHS, HR, supply chain), drive change management and train staff on new CNSL technologies.
• Manage the annual plant budget, control unit production costs and maximise kernel yields and byproduct value; run Lean/Six Sigma initiatives to improve energy efficiency and OEE.
• Oversee material flow and inventory of raw cashews, finished kernels, crude and refined CNSL oil and expeller cake with procurement and logistics.

Required profile

• Engineering degree or Master's in Food Technology, Industrial, Chemical/Process or Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years in plant or senior production management in the agro-industrial sector.
• Direct cashew processing experience and hands-on exposure to oil extraction or biomass valorisation (CNSL) or industrial expansion projects strongly preferred.
• Fluent written and spoken English and French.

Required skills

• Solid understanding of mechanical/thermal processing equipment and CNSL extraction safety protocols.
• Proficiency in food safety management systems, industrial EHS regulations and ERP/project management software.
• Industrial project management (capex, scheduling, vendor oversight).

What we offer

• Permanent full-time position (CDI) in Côte d'Ivoire.
• Salary package tailored to experience: fixed salary plus project/performance bonus and group benefits.