General Manager, Technical and Operations

GM, Technical/Operations

GM Technical/Production is responsible for leading all technical and operational functions of DSR Apapa, including refinery operations, sugar production, yield improvement, cost optimization, process innovation, and resource utilization. The role ensures operational excellence, strong team leadership, and strict compliance with regulatory, quality, and safety standards.

Job Classification

Senior Management / Executive Level

Job Summary

The General Manager, Technical/Production provides strategic leadership and oversight of all technical and operational activities at the DSR Apapa Refinery. The role ensures seamless refinery operations, continuous improvement in productivity and yield, cost-effective resource management, and alignment of operational processes with corporate goals. The role drives technological advancement, process optimization, and operational sustainability across the refinery.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement production and operational strategies aligned with business objectives and approved budgets.
• Lead yield improvement initiatives and enforce cost‑reduction measures.
• Oversee refinery operations to ensure compliance with product quality, technical specifications, and safety standards.
• Supervise maintenance, engineering, and technical functions to ensure equipment reliability and plant efficiency.
• Drive the introduction of new technologies, automation, and continuous improvement programs.
• Maintain a cohesive work environment built on teamwork, collaboration, and accountability.
• Manage relationships with stakeholders including regulatory bodies, host communities, vendors, and technical partners.
• Prepare and manage operational budgets, ensuring fiscal discipline and optimal resource utilization.
• Lead refinery modernization programs and process automation initiatives.
• Mentor and develop functional managers, building a strong leadership pipeline for the refinery.
• Ensure strict compliance with HSSE, environmental, and sustainability standards.

Educational Qualifications

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, or a related technical field.

Work Experience

Minimum of 20 years relevant experience, including at least 5 years in a senior management position within a manufacturing or refinery environment.

Skills and Behaviours

• Strong leadership and organizational management skills.
• Excellent analytical, decision‑making, and problem‑solving capability.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead cross‑functional teams.
• High adaptability and openness to technological innovation.
• Strong commitment to teamwork and continuous process improvement.

Professional Qualifications

• Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent certification preferred.
• Membership in a recognized engineering body (e.g., COREN, NSE) is an added advantage.

Years of Experience

Minimum of 20 years, including 5 years in an executive capacity.

Internal Stakeholder Interaction

Group Managing Director, Chief Engineers, Finance, Human Resources, Quality Assurance, HSSE, and Supply Chain.

External Stakeholder Interaction

Equipment vendors, regulatory authorities, technical partners, consultants, and host community representatives.

Level of Authority

High authority over refinery operations, capital expenditure within approved limits, and strategic decisions related to production, technology, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all refinery and technical operations.
• Achieve production targets and optimize yield.
• Implement cost‑reduction and efficiency improvement measures.
• Ensure strict adherence to quality, safety, and environmental standards.
• Drive innovation and technology adoption.
• Sustain stakeholder and community relations.
• Build internal capacity and strengthen succession pipelines.

Competency Level Required

Level 4 – Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Leadership Competencies

Strategic Thinking, Decision Making, People Management, Change Leadership, Business Acumen.

Technical/Functional Competencies

Production Planning, Process Optimization, Maintenance Management, Cost Control, HSSE Management, Technology Implementation.

Behavioural Competencies

Integrity, Accountability, Teamwork, Initiative, Adaptability, Communication.

Core Competencies

Excellence, Customer Focus, Innovation, Safety Awareness, Continuous Improvement.

Key Performance Areas (KPAs)

• Production Efficiency & Cost Control
• Quality & Safety Compliance
• Technology & Process Innovation

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Sugar Production Volume per Ton
• Variable and Fixed Cost per Ton
• Product Quality Parameters (Colour, Granule Size)
• Plant Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) Ranking