Production Head Operations

Production Operations Head Fermentation (Biotech / Microbiology)

Location: Coimbatore

Company: Leading Agri-Science Organization (Part of a reputed business group)

Industry: Biotechnology / Agricultural Inputs / Fermentation-Based Manufacturing

Role Overview

We are seeking a seasoned Production Head to lead fermentation-based manufacturing operations at our Coimbatore facility.

This role will be responsible for end-to-end production management, including upstream and downstream fermentation processes, scale-up operations, process optimisation, and compliance with quality and regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise combined with strong leadership to drive operational excellence in a high-growth, research-driven agri-biotech environment.

Key Responsibilities

Production Leadership

• Lead and manage fermentation-based production operations.
• Ensure achievement of production targets with optimal efficiency and cost control.
• Oversee day-to-day plant operations and workforce management.

Fermentation & Process Expertise

• Manage upstream (culture development, inoculum preparation) and downstream processing.
• Drive process optimization, yield improvement, and consistency.
• Lead scale-up of fermentation processes from lab to commercial production.

Plant Operations & Equipment Management

• Ensure smooth functioning and maintenance of fermentation equipment and utilities.
• Collaborate with engineering teams for preventive and breakdown maintenance.
• Optimize plant utilization and reduce downtime.

Quality & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure adherence to GMP, quality standards, and regulatory guidelines.
• Work closely with QA/QC teams to maintain product quality and documentation.
• Support audits and ensure compliance with internal and external standards.

Process Improvement & Innovation

• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and efficiency.
• Introduce new technologies and best practices in fermentation processes.
• Drive cost optimization and waste reduction initiatives.

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop production teams.
• Build a culture of discipline, safety, and performance excellence.
• Ensure training and capability development of technical staff.

Candidate Profile

• Bachelors / Master’s degree in Biotechnology / Microbiology.
• 15–20 years of experience in fermentation-based manufacturing.

Strong expertise in: Upstream & downstream fermentation processes, Production scaling & process optimisation, Equipment handling & plant operations GMP and regulatory compliance.

Preferred Profile

• Age: 45–50 years, Fluent in English & Tamil, Candidates from Tamil Nadu / South India preferred
• Experience in agri-biotech / bio-inputs / microbial products will be an advantage.

Key Competencies

• Strong technical depth in fermentation science
• Leadership and team management
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Process excellence mindset
• Operational and cost control orientation