Production Lab and Glaze Manager EXA Ceramics

About the Role

Alfanar is seeking a Production Lab and Glaze Manager for EXA Ceramics in Riyadh. This full-time role requires 2-5 years of experience and is responsible for leading and managing the Production Laboratory and Glaze Preparation sections. The manager will ensure consistent quality, process efficiency, and production innovation through raw material testing, glaze formulation, process optimization, and team development to meet production targets and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise lab activities, including raw material analysis, chemical testing, and providing advice for quality issue correction.
• Develop and implement testing protocols for new materials and formulations.
• Maintain calibration and upkeep of lab equipment.
• Manage glaze formulation, mixing, and application processes.
• Collaborate with R&D and design teams to develop new glaze effects and finishes.
• Monitor glaze performance during production and troubleshoot issues.
• Ensure accurate documentation of glazing recipes and process parameters.
• Monitor shade variation and take corrective action when deviations are identified.
• Obtain approval from the R&D Manager for product changes and adjustments before commercial production start-up.
• Communicate required information to related departments from body preparation to kiln regarding developed bodies, glazes, and pilot run production.
• Ensure specified parameters are communicated, included, and maintained in the concerned departments.
• Control pigments and raw materials related to glazes and regularly check related inventory.
• Analyze production data to identify areas for improvement.
• Support trials and pilot runs for new products and processes.
• Prepare regular reports on lab results, glaze performance, and production KPIs.
• Maintain accurate records of tests, formulations, and process changes.
• Participate in audits and contribute to quality assurance documentation.

Role Accountabilities

• Recruit, recognize, and cultivate high performers to create a robust second line of management.
• Recognize low performers and guide them to improve or release them.
• Treat subordinates equally without discrimination, with performance as the primary assessment criterion.
• Ensure the availability of a delegation of authority matrix as per company policy.
• Take full responsibility for operations as per the job description and deliverables, adhering to company guidelines.
• Anticipate problems and take proactive steps to prevent them, making timely decisions.
• Deliver required results in a timely manner with specified quality and cost.
• Make a tangible difference in the area of operation and exceed business expectations.
• Transform corporate goals into business plans, then plan, follow up, and execute these plans.
• Monitor plan performance, initiate actions to strengthen results, and take corrective actions.
• Provide periodic work progress reports and control budgets and expenses for optimum cost efficiency.
• Develop the organizational structure according to current and future requirements.
• Ensure availability and deployment of job descriptions for all roles.
• Develop and coordinate well-defined written systems, policies, procedures, and seek automation opportunities.
• Be conversant with and able to navigate IT solutions relevant to the job and business, promoting their full use.
• Uphold quality as Alfanar's prime competitive advantage.
• Adapt to new and alternative techniques, technologies, management structures, and business models.
• Ensure a safe, secure, and legal work environment as per standard regulations.

Qualifications and Experience

• 2-5 years of relevant experience.

Work Type

This is a full-time position based in Riyadh.