Production Supervisor (Packhouse) - Machakos

Position: Production Supervisor (Packhouse)

Location: Machakos

Company: Vert Limited

About Vert

Vert Limited is a Kenyan agribusiness specializing in fruit processing and fresh produce export, working closely with smallholder farmers to supply mango, pineapple and fresh vegetables to regional and international markets. We operate under rigorous food safety and social compliance standards, including FSSC 22000, BRCGS, GlobalG.A.P, Organic and leading ethical audit schemes.

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Production Supervisor (Packhouse) to join our team. The Production Supervisor (Packhouse) will be responsible for driving operational excellence, ensuring strict adherence to BRCGS food safety standards, and leading a culture of continuous improvement. The Production Supervisor will deputize the Packhouse Manager, making critical decisions to ensure seamless production continuity and business efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Operational Supervision

• Strategically manage end-to-end production processes including drying, holding, cutting, selection, and packing to meet volume and cost targets.
• Orchestrate shift handovers to ensure business continuity and seamless transition of operational priorities.
• Act as the primary point of contact for shift technicians, proactively coordinating maintenance to minimize downtime and optimize Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
• Serve as the deputy to the Packhouse Manager, making high-impact decisions on daily operations, resource allocation, and problem-solving in their absence. Quality, Compliance & Food Safety
• Serve as the custodian of Food Safety and Quality on shift, ensuring rigorous adherence to BRCGS, HACCP, and GMP requirements.
• Lead internal audit readiness and actively participate in external QA audits, driving corrective actions to closure.
• Champion a proactive "Right First Time" culture; immediately escalating and resolving nonconformances concerning raw materials, packaging, or finished products.
• Maintain meticulous traceability and metal detection documentation, ensuring full regulatory compliance.

Team Leadership & Culture

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Line Leaders, QC’s, and Operators.
• Drive labor productivity through strategic resource allocation, performance management, and targeted on-the-job training.
• Cultivate a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement, ensuring staff are engaged and motivated.
• Manage complex personnel matters, including performance reviews, disciplinary actions, and attendance management, in consultation with the Packhouse Manager.

Process Improvement & Reporting

• Drive waste reduction and efficiency initiatives by identifying bottlenecks and implementing immediate corrective actions.
• Act as the "Change Agent" for new procedures, leading trials and data collection for process optimization.
• Compile comprehensive shift performance reports, analyzing production volumes, yield, and downtime data for presentation to senior management.
• Support the Packhouse Manager in the development of departmental budgets and strategic planning.

Safety & Hygiene Enforcement

• Conduct rigorous daily safety and hygiene inspections, ensuring 100% adherence to PPE and safe work practices.
• Lead incident investigations and emergency response activities, promoting a zero-harm work environment.

Experience & Qualifications

• Diploma in Food Science, Food Technology, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of supervisory experience in a food manufacturing environment (experience in dried fruit or FMCG is highly advantageous).
• Deep knowledge of food safety standards (BRCGS, GMP, HACCP, FSSC)
• Horticultural sector experience is mandatory – you must have worked in fresh produce, packhouse, or related horticultural production.
• Strong analytical skills with a hands-on approach to troubleshooting production issues.
• Deep understanding of quality assurance and regulatory standards.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with all levels of the organization.
• Strong leadership and management skills with real command – you can direct section heads, hold people accountable, and maintain discipline on the floor.
• Familiarity with cold chain logistics and FIFO warehouse principles.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should send their CV and a cover letter, quoting “Production Supervisor (Packhouse)” in the subject line, to hr@vertltd.co.ke by 17th July 2026.