Operations Manager

Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protecting in the building sector and motor vehicle industry. Sika has subsidiaries in 102 countries around the world and, in over 400 factories, produces innovative technologies for customers worldwide. In doing so, it plays a crucial role in the transformation of the construction and transportation sector toward greater environmental compatibility. With more than 34,000 employees, the company generated sales of CHF 11.76 billion in 2024.

Lead and guide the development and execution of operational strategies across Production, Quality Management, HSE, Sustainability, Procurement, Warehouse & Logistics, and Maintenance functions to ensure a high-performing, motivated, and technically skilled workforce. Drive continuous improvement and operational excellence across factories and supply chain infrastructure to meet business needs and enhance Customer service experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Safety Leadership:
• Attain annual safety goals through a solid understanding of safety management as well as the ability to convey and enforce safety rules and procedures. Ensure implemented Sika EHS guidelines and standards are always met
• Operational Leadership:
  
  Direct and support company operations to maintain a best-in-class workforce, fostering motivation and development of both technical and social competencies.
• Factory, Maintenance & Supply Chain Management:
  
  Oversee performance, development, and continuous improvement of factories, maintenance systems, and supply chain infrastructure to ensure reliable, safe, and efficient delivery of goods and services. Oversee the maintenance of the site by working with the landlord.
• Efficiency & Effectiveness Optimization:
  
  Ensure operations deliver market-fit products at optimal efficiency and effectiveness across the country, minimizing downtime and maximizing asset utilization. Analyze data to identify optimization projects in processes.
• Performance Monitoring & Reporting:
  
  Define and monitor KPIs using appropriate controlling tools. Report operational metrics to higher management and develop monetary, quality, and structural targets.
• Strategic Change Management:
  
  Identify, adopt, and implement strategic, tactical, and operational changes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, including site expansions and infrastructure development.
• Local & Regional Collaboration:
  
  Facilitate and support operations activities at country and regional levels, contributing to Corporate Strategic Operations and Operations Leadership Teams. Implement and drive sales and operational planning process. Coordinate with R&D and other expert teams
• Capital Investment Strategy:
  
  Represent the company in regional operations and develop capital investment strategies aligned with Group objectives, including maintenance and asset renewal planning.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Planning:
  
  Collaborate with business units to analyze current and future needs, developing short- and long-term strategies for goods, services, and operational capabilities.

• Experience: Minimum of 10 years in Operations and Manufacturing.
• Education: Chemical Engineering or related engineering field
• Languages:  English, Arabic & Kurdish
• Skills:
  • Proven knowledge of product quality demands of manufacturers; problem-solving, error-proofing, and mentoring.
  • Demonstrated ability to push forward the necessary strategies and programs to increase quality, productivity, and customer service.
  • Ability to map processes and identify non-value-added activities to streamline activities.
  • Strong interpersonal skills reflecting leadership, sensitivity, and the demonstrated desire and ability to foster teamwork focusing on positive cooperative communication within and between departments
  • Strong leader who manages consistently when applying rules, policies, and procedures; leads from a strong position and nurtures a culture of listening and respect for all.

What we offer

• A strong, entrepreneurial corporate culture with flat hierarchies and a cooperative spirit.
• To work in a successful, growing company which is the global leader in construction chemicals and an important enabler for the sustainable transformation of the construction and vehicle industries.

Building Trust Every Day

• Trust is the most important thing for us. We trust in the capabilities of all our Sika team members and reward them with above average freedom and empowerment – every day
• For a large company we have a surprisingly flat hierarchy with direct decision making processes
• We offer a fair employment package with good social benefits
• The chance to bring new ideas, interesting areas for development, and taking responsibility early on are some of the key factors that drive Sika's pioneering spirit.

Sika's global presence and proximity to customers makes it extremely important to understand diverse cultures and share experience across national boundaries. A diverse and inclusive workforce enables a wider talent pool, drives innovation, and enhances profitability and competitiveness.