APAC Industrial Director – Manufacturing Operations

About the role

We are seeking a seasoned Industrial Operations Leader to serve as the APAC C&C Industrial Director, based in either Malaysia or the Philippines. The role oversees manufacturing operations across multiple Asia‑Pacific sites, driving operational excellence, transformation, and sustainable growth.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and govern manufacturing operations across APAC sites, aligning with regional and global strategies.
• Develop and execute demand‑capacity, productivity, and performance improvement plans.
• Oversee Production, Quality, HSE, Engineering, Logistics, and Project Management functions.
• Champion a safety‑first culture and ensure compliance with local regulations and global HSE standards.
• Drive cost optimisation, lean initiatives, and continuous‑improvement programmes.
• Lead high‑impact transformation projects, capital projects, and operational integration.
• Contribute to regional operations strategy and translate business plans into actionable roadmaps.
• Develop a diverse multi‑country operations team and manage OPEX/CAPEX budgets.

Required profile

• Degree in Chemical Engineering or a related technical field.
• Minimum 10 + years of experience in manufacturing or process industries, preferably in a multi‑site or regional role.
• Proven track record in plant management, industrial operations, and leading transformation initiatives.
• Experience working in Southeast Asia or APAC markets, with exposure to the Philippines and/or Malaysia.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder management, and decision‑making abilities.

Required skills

• Lean methodology and continuous‑improvement techniques.
• Process manufacturing and plant management.
• Project planning, execution, and governance.
• Budget (OPEX/CAPEX) management.
• Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) standards compliance.