Production Manager – Flexo UV Printing

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Production Manager to build and lead a brand‑new Flexo UV Printing department for a greenfield printing and packaging company entering the Zambian market. This senior leadership position combines strategic department setup with hands‑on production oversight in a fast‑growing start‑up environment.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement production systems, SOPs, KPIs and workflow processes.
• Lead the installation and commissioning of Flexo UV printing machinery.
• Recruit, train and manage teams across production, pre‑press, quality control, maintenance and dispatch.
• Oversee daily production planning, quality assurance and on‑time delivery.
• Implement colour management, preventive maintenance and safety programmes.
• Drive continuous‑improvement initiatives using Lean, 5S and Kaizen.
• Collaborate with sales, finance, logistics and senior management on expansion plans and new line development.

Required profile

• Degree in Printing Technology or related field.
• 10+ years hands‑on experience in Flexographic UV printing, preferably in labeling.
• 5+ years in a leadership or managerial role.
• Strong technical knowledge of pre‑press, press, inks, substrates, plates and colour control.
• Experience in start‑up or transformation projects is highly desirable.

Required skills

• Flexographic UV printing
• Pre‑press operations
• Press operation and maintenance
• Ink and substrate handling
• Plate technology and colour control
• Colour management systems
• Preventive maintenance
• Safety systems
• Lean, 5S, Kaizen methodologies
• ISO standards
• HACCP and food‑safety knowledge
• Six Sigma principles
• ERP exposure (SAP S/4HANA or similar)