Section Manager, Production Lab & Glaze Preparation

Job Purpose

To lead and manage the Production Laboratory and Glaze Preparation sections, ensuring consistent quality, process efficiency, and innovation in production. The role involves overseeing raw material testing, glaze formulation, process optimization, and team development to meet production targets and quality standards.

Key Accountability Areas

Laboratory Management
•    Supervise all lab activities including raw material analysis, chemical testing, and quality control procedures.
•    Ensure compliance with internal standards and external regulations.
•    Develop and implement testing protocols for new materials and formulations.
•    Maintain calibration and upkeep of lab equipment.

Glaze Preparation management
•    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.

Quality Control & Production Monitoring
•    Ensure that shade variation is under control and keep continuous monitoring on the same. If any deviation is found, adjust accordingly.
•    Take approval from R&D manager for any changes and adjustments in the product before start-up of the commercial production.
•    To communicate necessary information to departments from body preparation to kiln regarding new developed bodies/glazes, pilot run production and ensure the

 specified parameters are included & maintained in those departments.
•    To keep control over the pigments/raw materials related to glazes and frequently check the inventory related to the same.

Team Leadership
•    Lead, train, and mentor lab technicians and glaze preparation staff.
•    To develop leadership qualities and team work in the staff.
•    Plan and allocate resources effectively to meet production schedules.
•    Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Technology, Process Optimization & Innovation
•    To keep control over the pigments/raw materials related to glazes and frequently check the inventory related to the same.
•    Analyze production data to identify areas for improvement.
•    Implement lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles where applicable.
•    Support trials and pilot runs for new products and processes.
•    To keep control over the pigments/raw materials related to glazes and frequently check the inventory related to the same.

Reporting & Documentation
•    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.

Safety & Housekeeping
•    To ensure safety procedures are followed and implemented in the section.
•    To ensure the housekeeping in the department.

Role Accountability

HR Proficiency:

• Training of sub-ordinates and forming a team to get the work effectively.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and direction to subordinates in all aspects of their work.
• Delegate sub-ordinates in each respective assignment.
• Ensures fair distribution of tasks to maintain morale, motivation of subordinates.

Delivery:

• Perform the planned activities to meet the operational and development targets as per delivery schedules.
• Utilize resources effectively to achieve objectives within efficient cost and time.
• Provide a periodic report formatted by detailing the deviation and execution of planned tasks.

Problem-Solving:

• Resolve any related problems arise and escalate any complex operational issues.

Quality:

• Ensure quality requirements to develop effective quality control and processes including specifications for products or processes or related activities.

Business Process Improvements:

• Coordinate well-defined written systems, policies, procedures, and seeking automations opportunities as much as possible.

Compliance:

• Comply to related policy and procedures and work instructions.

Safety:

• Ensure compliance of relevant safety, quality, and environmental management procedures and controls within defined area of work activity to guarantee safety, legislative compliance, and delivery of high-quality products/services.

Academic Qualification

Work Experience

Technical / Functional Competencies