NATIONAL FOODS LTD UNIT MANAGER – PASTA BUSINESS UNIT National Foods prides itself in developing and growing its people. We are looking for an operationally strong, commercially minded and people-centred leader to take up the role of Unit Manager – Pasta Business Unit. This is a key leadership opportunity for a high-potential manufacturing professional who can deliver safe, efficient and cost-effective operations while building a capable, engaged team.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Operations Management
- Closing Date: 2026-08-28
Key Responsibilities
- Leading the Pasta Business Unit to deliver agreed production volumes, product quality, food safety, safety and cost targets.
- Driving disciplined day-to-day operations, ensuring plant reliability, effective shift performance, sound planning and strong execution on the factory floor.
- Managing budgets, yields, waste, labour productivity and other key cost drivers to improve unit profitability and operational discipline.
- Identifying and implementing continuous improvement initiatives that improve efficiency, throughput, quality, safety and customer service.
- Building a strong, accountable team through visible leadership, coaching, performance management and capability development.
- Ensuring full compliance with food safety, quality, health, safety, environmental, statutory and internal governance requirements.
Requirements
- A relevant Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Industrial Engineering, Production Management, Operations, Business Management or a related discipline.
- A professional qualification in Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Operations, Lean/Continuous Improvement or Leadership Management will be an added advantage.
- 5 plus years’ experience in manufacturing or FMCG, preferably in a high-volume production environment.
- At least 3 years’ experience leading teams in a production, operations or plant management environment.
- A track record of improving production performance, managing costs, leading cross-functional teams and delivering results through people.
- Strong leadership, commercial awareness, analytical ability, financial discipline and decision-making skills, with a clear commitment to safety, quality and continuous improvement.
How to Apply
Apply by email: [email protected]
About the Company
National Foods Ltd is a leading food manufacturing company with substantial operations throughout Zimbabwe. The company effectively manages and operates manufacturing sites situated in the key cities of Harare and Bulawayo, ensuring widespread product distribution. A significant employer, National Foods Ltd recognises its workforce, with its non-managerial employees being beneficiaries of a dedicated Trust. This entity plays a crucial role in the national food supply chain, contributing to both the economy and local livelihoods. It operates as a core component of the broader National Foods Holdings Limited group.
Nourishing Zimbabwe with quality food products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Unit Manager in a pasta business unit in Zimbabwe?
A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Food Science, Operations Management, or a related field is commonly expected. Professional certifications such as those from the Institute of Operations Management (IOM) or local short courses in food safety (e.g., HACCP or Zimbabwe Bureau of Standards – ZIMSEC-certified training) are highly valued. Relevant experience in FMCG manufacturing or food production within Zimbabwean regulatory frameworks strengthens applications.
What does a typical day look like for a Unit Manager in a pasta business unit in Zimbabwe?
Daily responsibilities include overseeing production scheduling, quality control checks aligned with ZIMSEC and ZBC standards, managing shift teams, and coordinating with procurement and logistics to ensure raw material availability amid local supply chain constraints. The role also involves daily safety briefings, equipment downtime tracking, and reporting to senior management using locally adapted KPI dashboards common in Zimbabwean FMCG firms.
How does Zimbabwean work culture influence expectations for this role?
Respect for hierarchy and formal communication with senior leadership is customary, though collaborative problem-solving with shop-floor staff is increasingly expected. Punctuality, reliability, and adaptability to infrastructure challenges—such as intermittent power or transport delays—are routinely assessed during performance reviews. Relationship-building across departments and adherence to local labour laws (e.g., Labour Act Chapter 28:01) are essential for effective team leadership.
What realistic career progression paths exist for a Unit Manager in Zimbabwe’s FMCG sector?
Successful Unit Managers often progress to Plant Manager or Operations Head roles within the same company or move laterally to similar positions at other major FMCG employers like Innscor or Olivine Foods. Some pursue regional roles with multinationals operating in SADC markets, while others transition into technical consulting or food industry compliance advisory—especially after gaining exposure to ZIMRA, ZBC, and WHO-aligned food safety systems.
What benefits can I realistically expect in this role at a Zimbabwean FMCG company?
Standard benefits typically include 30 days’ annual leave, medical aid through local providers like NEL or MAMU, and pension contributions under the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) framework. Some employers offer housing or transport allowances, and meal vouchers are common; however, comprehensive private medical cover or international insurance is rare unless part of an expatriate package.
How should I apply, and what do Zimbabwean employers specifically look for in candidates for this role?
Applications are usually submitted via email or LinkedIn, often requiring a CV, certified academic transcripts, and proof of ZIMRA tax clearance. Employers prioritise demonstrable experience in high-volume food production, familiarity with Zimbabwean food labelling regulations and SPS measures, and evidence of leading multi-skilled teams through operational disruptions like forex shortages or utility instability.