Overview:
We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated General Manager to oversee the establishment and operation of a liquor plant in Sierra Leone and Liberia. The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of plant setup, commissioning, and ongoing operations, including regulatory compliance, government relations, licensing, production, quality control, and team management.

Responsibilities:

Plant Setup and Commissioning:
Lead the planning, setup, and commissioning of the liquor plant, ensuring adherence to project timelines and budget constraints.
Coordinate with contractors, suppliers, and regulatory agencies to facilitate the smooth establishment of plant operations.
Regulatory Compliance and Government Relations:
Develop a comprehensive understanding of local regulations governing the liquor industry in Sierra Leone and Liberia.
Liaise with government officials, regulatory bodies, and local authorities to obtain necessary licenses and permits for plant operation.
Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements, including taxation, import/export regulations, and environmental standards.
Production Management:
Oversee all aspects of production, including raw material sourcing, manufacturing processes, packaging, and quality control.
Implement efficient production schedules and workflows to maximize output while maintaining product quality and consistency.
Monitor inventory levels and procurement activities to ensure uninterrupted production operations.
Quality Control and Assurance:
Establish and maintain rigorous quality control procedures to uphold product quality and safety standards.
Implement quality assurance measures to monitor product consistency and compliance with specifications.
Investigate and address any quality issues or deviations from standards in a timely manner.
Team Leadership and Development:
Recruit, train, and supervise a skilled workforce to operate the liquor plant effectively.
Provide leadership and direction to plant staff, fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and support employee development initiatives.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field. Master's degree preferred.
Proven experience (X+ years) in a senior management role within the beverage industry, with specific expertise in setting up and operating liquor plants.
Extensive knowledge of liquor production processes, equipment, and technologies.
Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and government relations in Sierra Leone and Liberia.
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and adapt to local customs and practices.
Fluent in English; proficiency in local languages is a plus.
Willingness to travel and relocate as required.