Company Overview:

Wigmore Trading is a fast-growing trading and manufacturing company based in Lagos, Nigeria. We are expanding our manufacturing operations and are seeking an Operations Manager (Pallet Production) to lead and optimize our pallet manufacturing facility. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and technically skilled professional to take ownership of production processes, efficiency improvements, and quality assurance in a dynamic and high-growth environment.

Job Summary:

The Operations Manager (Pallet Production) will be responsible for overseeing the entire pallet manufacturing process, ensuring efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness. The ideal candidate will have an engineering background, strong leadership skills, and hands-on experience in manufacturing operations. This role requires a data-driven mindset, the ability to manage a team, and a problem-solving approach to optimize production output and reduce waste.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the entire pallet production process, ensuring efficient and high-quality output.
• Implement and optimize production systems, workflows, and machinery maintenance schedules.
• Lead and supervise production staff, ensuring adherence to safety, quality, and productivity standards.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to improve manufacturing efficiency.
• Develop strategies to reduce production costs while maintaining product quality.
• Ensure compliance with local and international manufacturing regulations and safety standards.
• Work closely with procurement and supply chain teams to ensure the availability of raw materials.
• Introduce continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing principles to enhance operations.
• Troubleshoot production issues and implement corrective actions in real-time.
• Maintain relationships with equipment suppliers, vendors, and regulatory bodies.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Production Engineering from a top engineering university in Nigeria or West Africa.
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing/production role, preferably in wood processing, packaging, or industrial manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, industrial automation, and lean production methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams and improve operational efficiency.
• Hands-on experience with production planning, quality control, and maintenance management.
• Proficiency in using ERP systems, manufacturing software, and data analytics tools for production optimization.
• Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills.

Preferred Background & Profile:

We are looking for a smart, ambitious, and hardworking professional who thrives in a high-performance manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate should be someone who enjoys solving complex challenges, optimizing production workflows, and leading teams to success.

This role is ideal for someone who has:

• A practical, hands-on approach to problem-solving and operations.
• The ability to work under pressure and make data-driven decisions in real-time.
• A background in engineering, manufacturing, or supply chain management.
• Experience working in fast-paced, industrial manufacturing settings.
• A passion for process improvement and driving operational excellence.

Top Universities for Engineering in Nigeria & West Africa:

Candidates from the following top engineering universities in Nigeria and West Africa are strongly encouraged to apply:

Nigeria:

• University of Lagos (UNILAG)
• Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
• Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
• Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMinna)
• Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
• University of Ibadan (UI)
• Covenant University

West Africa:

• Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) – Ghana
• University of Ghana, Legon
• Université Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD) – Senegal
• Université de Lomé – Togo
• Ashesi University – Ghana (for leadership in engineering management)

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses.
• Career growth opportunities in a rapidly expanding company.
• A dynamic and entrepreneurial work environment with exposure to international best practices.
• Hands-on leadership experience in manufacturing operations.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit their CV and cover letter highlighting relevant experience and achievements in manufacturing operations.

Join us at Wigmore Trading and be part of a team that is shaping the future of industrial manufacturing in Nigeria!