BAT is undergoing a dynamic transformation as it evolves into a global multi-category business. Guided by the vision of creating A Better Tomorrow™ through a smokeless world, the company continues to strengthen its operations and attract professionals who can help shape this journey.
As part of its Operations Leaf function, BAT is seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional for the role of GLT Engineering & Maintenance Manager. This position is critical in ensuring the seamless operation of facilities, utilities, and equipment within the Green Leaf Threshing Plant (GLT) and the Leaf Center. The role encompasses leadership, project management, operational excellence, and relationship-building to drive both current productivity and future growth.
The position reports to the GLT Manager, is classified at Grade 34, and will be based at all designated GLT and Leaf Center locations.
Purpose of the Role
The GLT Engineering & Maintenance Manager is responsible for overseeing capital expenditure projects, maintenance of buildings, utilities, and engineering assets. The role ensures cost-effective management of engineering operations, uninterrupted production, compliance with safety and legal standards, and the achievement of productivity targets.
A key focus of this role is to guarantee continuous utility supply, including power, steam, air, water, and vacuum, to support both production and administration. Additionally, the position involves managing GLT and leaf machine maintenance, spare parts planning, and technical training, all aimed at maintaining optimum productivity, quality, and cost efficiency.
Performance Expectations
The performance of the GLT Engineering & Maintenance Manager will be assessed against the ability to deliver Co-plan targets, readiness for site growth, uninterrupted utility provision, and adherence to project schedules and budgets. Success in this role is measured by operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, employee development, and contribution to long-term strategic objectives.
Principal Accountabilities
The responsibilities of the GLT Engineering & Maintenance Manager are categorized into several key areas of accountability:
Business Responsibilities
- Drive continuous improvement in equipment availability and efficiency, ensuring optimal Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
- Manage all engineering-related areas, including utilities, environmental health and safety (EHS), and facilities, in close collaboration with procurement and other departments to meet Co-plan objectives.
- Oversee plant maintenance programs, machinery overhauls, and modifications to guarantee smooth production operations.
- Ensure 100 percent availability of utilities such as electricity, steam, water, vacuum, and compressed air.
- Monitor and manage energy consumption across operations, identifying opportunities for cost savings and efficiency.
- Deliver capital and operational projects on time, within approved budgets, and aligned with BAT’s global technical and operational standards.
- Ensure full compliance with technical requirements, local laws, regulatory standards, and internal safety frameworks.
Leadership Responsibilities
- Develop, lead, and maintain a motivated engineering team through coaching, mentoring, and succession planning.
- Promote an organizational culture of servant leadership and change readiness.
- Conduct performance evaluations regularly, identifying training needs and addressing performance gaps.
- Ensure continuous professional development of team members, encouraging talent retention and career growth.
- Support the adoption of lean manufacturing methodologies and integrated work systems within the department.
Management Responsibilities
- Establish and monitor maintenance and service cost targets, ensuring compliance with Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and driving operational cost savings.
- Oversee the efficient management of operational expenditure (Opex) and capital expenditure (Capex) budgets.
- Ensure optimal control of spare parts, machinery registers, and related engineering resources.
- Guarantee adherence to BAT standards, policies, and procedures, as well as compliance with local statutory requirements.
Relationship Responsibilities
- Build and sustain strong working relationships with internal departments, suppliers, contractors, and local authorities.
- Collaborate across all levels of the organization, including HR, Finance, Procurement, and EHS, to achieve operational synergy.
- Ensure safe and productive working conditions by reducing the risk of unplanned downtime in production.
- Foster constructive engagement with union staff and external regulatory agencies.
Innovation Responsibilities
- Lead initiatives for continuous improvement in engineering and utilities management.
- Promote the adoption of best practices and encourage knowledge-sharing across BAT facilities.
- Drive innovative solutions to enhance efficiency, productivity, and sustainability in engineering operations.
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience Required
- A degree or equivalent experience in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering with at least five years of plant or engineering experience.
- Practical experience in project management, with Project Management Professional (PMP) certification considered an advantage.
- Strong proficiency in IT systems, including Microsoft Office and SAP.
- Broad knowledge of factory operations and engineering processes.
- Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to communicate effectively, manage contracts, and inspire teams.
- Proven experience in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, Integrated Work Systems (IWS), and Daily Management Systems (DMS).
- Membership with a recognized professional engineering body.
- High level of self-motivation, discipline, and decision-making skills.
- Capacity to innovate and adapt in complex and challenging environments.
Key Success Factors
The role will be considered successful if the following outcomes are achieved:
- Timely delivery of capital and operational projects within set budgets.
- Achievement of high OEE levels, throughput, product yield, and quality standards.
- Maintenance of zero safety and environmental incidents across the GLT operations.
- Full compliance with statutory requirements and BAT’s internal standards.
- Effective management of utilities to ensure efficiency and continuity.
- Strengthening of staff capabilities and implementation of IWS in alignment with Co-plan objectives.
Working Relationships
The GLT Engineering & Maintenance Manager will collaborate with both internal and external stakeholders:
- Internal stakeholders include Leaf Operations departments, the GLT Plant Manager, HR, Finance, Procurement, EHS teams, and union representatives.
- External stakeholders include suppliers, contractors, utility providers, statutory authorities, and local government representatives.
Career Development Opportunities
This position offers exposure to complex engineering and operational challenges within a global business framework. The GLT Engineering & Maintenance Manager will be responsible for shaping strategies, implementing innovative engineering practices, and building strong technical teams. This role is designed for professionals seeking long-term growth and a career path that emphasizes leadership in manufacturing, engineering, and operations.
Conclusion
The GLT Engineering & Maintenance Manager is a pivotal role that ensures operational excellence, project delivery, and long-term sustainability within BAT’s GLT and Leaf operations. The position demands strong technical expertise, proven leadership, and the ability to balance strategic goals with day-to-day operational needs.
Applicants with the required experience and proven capabilities are invited to submit their applications through the prescribed channels.
