Chief Operating Officer jobs in Malaysia

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Position: Chief Operating Officer, COO.
Employment Status: Full Time.
Location: Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.

About SEADLING
SEADLING is at the forefront of revolutionizing the tropical seaweed industry. As the world’s first company to manufacture fermented seaweed on a commercial scale, we are pioneering the use of innovative technology to enhance seaweed’s functional and nutritional value for animal feed, plant fertilizers, and human nutraceuticals.

With a dedicated team of 16 professionals from diverse fields, SEADLING combines deep scientific expertise in tropical seaweed with entrepreneurial drive and operational excellence. Together, we’re unlocking the potential of seaweed to transform industries and improve livelihoods.

We are actively optimizing the seaweed value chain—from developing proprietary seaweed varieties, improving farming techniques, and developing novel processing methods. Based in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, our vision for sustainability involves creating nutritious natural ingredients, empowering local seaweed farming communities, and regenerating our oceans.

To accelerate our growth and expand our vision, we are seeking a dynamic and visionary Chief Operating Officer. Join us in leading this transformative journey, where innovation meets purpose, and make your mark on a truly groundbreaking industry.

Why Join SEADLING?
At SEADLING, we are transforming marine agriculture with a vision for sustainable seaweed cultivation that is poised to make a real difference to food and agriculture. As our Chief Operating Officer, you will be the driving force behind our manufacturing operations and seaweed procurement, ensuring we not only achieve but exceed the highest standards of efficiency and sustainability.

This is more than just a leadership role; it is an opportunity to shape the future of our industry while fostering innovative practices that benefit our planet and local communities. If you are passionate about operational excellence and ready to take the helm of a vital function in a forward-thinking and fast-growing company, join us in making a lasting impact and be part of an exciting journey towards a more sustainable future!

Your Role & Impact
1) Lead Manufacturing Operations
Oversee all aspects of SEADLING’s production, supply chain, and logistics to ensure smooth, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible operations.

2) Lead Seaweed Procurement
Oversee all aspects of SEADLING’s procurement of raw seaweed contract-grown by small-holder seaweed farmers located in Semporna, Malaysia to ensure optimal quality, supply, and cost.

3) Optimize Efficiency
Implement strategies to streamline processes, reduce costs, and improve product quality across multiple locations.

4) Scale Production
Lead the expansion from the current pilot-scale manufacturing to a full commercial facility. Leading the expansion of our manufacturing operations as we grow from Malaysia to global markets, ensuring scalability and sustainability.

5) Drive Performance
Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for production teams, ensuring goals are met while maintaining compliance with industry standards and sustainability initiatives.

6) Team Leadership
Manage and inspire manufacturing teams, cultivating a high-performance culture that values collaboration and operational excellence.

7) Collaborate Strategically
Work closely with other key departments, including R&D, Sales, and Marketing, to ensure seamless integration and support for overall business objectives.
(Note: This role excludes direct oversight of R&D, Sales, and Marketing.)

8) Risk Management
Identify, assess, and mitigate operational risks, ensuring robust contingency plans are in place to address potential challenges in manufacturing and supply chain processes. Foster a culture of risk awareness within the team, promoting proactive measures to minimize disruptions and safeguard the company's assets and reputation.

What you bring.
1) Manufacturing Expertise
Proven experience as a COO or senior leader in food/feed manufacturing operations, with the ability to manage complex, multi-site production environments.

2) Industry Knowledge
Experience in marine, aquaculture, or agricultural industries is a strong asset, particularly in seaweed or natural product manufacturing.

3) Efficiency Champion
Strong background in process optimization, lean manufacturing, and operational scaling.

4) Leadership Skills
A natural leader with the ability to inspire teams, foster collaboration, and drive results.

5) Sustainability Focus
A deep commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, with a proven ability to integrate these values into operational practices.

6) Strategic Thinker
Ability to balance day-to-day operations with long-term business planning, ensuring production aligns with company growth strategies.

What We Offer.
1) A Leadership Role with Purpose
Take charge of a crucial function in a company committed to sustainability and innovation.

2) Competitive Compensation
We offer an attractive salary package, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

3) Global Impact
Play a key role in scaling SEADLING’s manufacturing operations for international growth with expansion planned to Indonesia.

4) Career Growth
Opportunity to work in a fast-growing, innovative company with ample room for professional development.

5) Dynamic Work Environment
Flexibility and opportunities for travel as you manage and oversee operations across multiple sites.

Qualifications & Skills for COO

1) Educational Background
A bachelor’s degree in business administration, operations management, agricultural science, or a related field is essential. A master’s degree (MBA or equivalent) is highly preferred.

2) Experience
(a) Proven experience in a senior operational role, preferably as a COO, Operations Manager, or similar position within the manufacturing or agricultural sectors.
(b) Demonstrated success in overseeing manufacturing operations, with a track record of optimizing processes and driving operational efficiency.
(c) Experience in starting up new operations in Asia, including establishing facilities, navigating regulatory requirements, and building effective local teams.

3) Industry Knowledge
(a) Strong understanding of hazard analysis, risk assessment, and compliance with both quality and safety standards, including HACCP principles, GMP guidelines, and relevant regulations within the food/feed, pet/livestock, agricultural, or marine-related industries.
(b) Familiarity with supply chain management, production planning, and quality control processes, with a focus on maintaining safety, quality, and adherence to GMP standards throughout the manufacturing process.

4) Leadership Skills
(a) Exceptional leadership capabilities, with experience in managing cross-functional teams and fostering a high-performance culture.
(b) Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage and inspire teams.

5) Strategic Thinking
(a) Ability to develop and implement strategic plans that align with the company's goals and drive growth in manufacturing operations.
(b) Data-driven mindset with the ability to analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) and make informed decisions.

6) Problem-Solving Abilities
Proven problem-solving skills, with the ability to think critically and navigate complex operational challenges.

7) Sustainability Focus
A deep commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability, with a history of integrating these values into operational practices.

8) Financial Acumen
Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting relevant to manufacturing operations.

9) Adaptability
Comfortable working in a fast-paced and evolving environment, with a willingness to embrace change and drive innovation.

10) Cultural Competence
Candidates with experience working in diverse cultural settings or international contexts are highly desirable, to bring diverse perspectives and enhance our global approach.