BUSINESS UNIT LEADER JOB DESCRIPTION

Practical examples of Business Unit Leader job descriptions drawn from industries including medtech, HVAC retail, environmental services, and more.

Business Unit Leader Job Description Template

1. About the Role

A Business Unit Leader in manufacturing means owning the shift, not just the output. This role carries full accountability for a defined production area: its safety record, quality compliance, cost performance, and the daily leadership of teams ranging from 30 to 200 hourly operators and supervisors. Meeting OSHA and FDA regulations, sustaining food safety programs such as HACCP and GMP, or maintaining ISO quality systems are standing obligations, not occasional tasks. Organizations vary in scale, but the scope does not: this position owns both the immediate production floor and the longer-term capability of the people on it.

2. Position Summary

As the Business Unit Leader, you are accountable for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of an assigned manufacturing area, driving performance against safety, quality, cost, and delivery targets through direct leadership of frontline supervisors and hourly teams. You operate within a plant leadership structure, contributing to site-level goals while holding full people management and budget accountability for your unit across all active shifts.

3. Why Join Us

Career Impact: Demonstrated ownership of a $100M+ production budget and multi-shift teams of 100 or more builds the P&L credibility and operational track record that qualifies leaders for Plant Manager roles.

Business Impact: When production safety, quality yields, and on-time delivery metrics slip, customers and downstream supply chains absorb the consequences directly; this role is the operational authority that prevents that from happening.

Growth Opportunity: Proven performance as a Business Unit Leader routinely opens pathways into Supply Chain leadership, multi-site operations management, or continuous improvement director roles within larger manufacturing networks.

4. Key Responsibilities

  • Lead safety compliance and food safety programs within the assigned production area to meet OSHA, FDA, GMP, and HACCP requirements.
  • Manage production scheduling, labor allocation, and budget control across all shifts to achieve cost, quality, and delivery targets.
  • Coach and develop frontline supervisors, team leaders, and hourly operators through structured performance management and individual development plans.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives using lean manufacturing and root cause analysis to eliminate production losses and reduce scrap.
  • Monitor daily KPIs through structured management systems, escalating gaps and corrective actions to plant leadership in Tier review meetings.
  • Conduct regular GEMBA walks and floor-level observations to identify safety hazards, quality deviations, and operational inefficiencies before they escalate.
  • Collaborate with maintenance, quality, and engineering teams to resolve recurring equipment failures and sustain process reliability.
  • Oversee training program completion, ensuring all team members meet core competency and certified operator requirements for their work area.

5. Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, business, food science, or a related technical discipline, or equivalent work experience.
  • 5 or more years of progressive manufacturing operations and people management experience, with demonstrated accountability for multi-shift production teams.
  • Knowledge of regulatory compliance frameworks applicable to the production environment, including OSHA, GMP, HACCP, or ISO quality standards.
  • Proven ability to manage departmental budgets and analyze financial variances against P&L targets.
  • Experience implementing lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or structured continuous improvement methodologies in a production setting.
  • Demonstrated track record of leading employee performance management, including coaching plans, disciplinary processes, and succession identification.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present performance data and corrective action plans to plant leadership.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and working knowledge of ERP or manufacturing execution systems.

6. Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in a food, chemical, or regulated manufacturing environment with direct exposure to GFSI, BRC, SQF, or Process Safety Management requirements.
  • Formal certification or demonstrated application of lean tools such as 5S, RCFA, or Daily Direction Setting within a business unit context.
  • 3 or more years of experience managing other supervisors or team leaders, with documented outcomes in talent development and succession planning.
  • Master's degree in engineering, operations management, or business administration, or equivalent advanced coursework.

7. Success Metrics & Environment

  • Safety incident rate within the business unit, measured against OSHA recordable targets for the site.
  • Production yield and scrap rate as a percentage of total output, tracked weekly against unit budget.
  • On-time delivery performance for the assigned production area, reported as a percentage of scheduled customer commitments met.
  • Direct and indirect labor cost variance versus approved unit budget, reviewed monthly with plant management.
  • Employee engagement score for the assigned business unit, measured through annual survey results at the area level.
  • Training completion rate for core competency and certified operator programs, tracked against department matrix requirements.
  • Typical tools: ERP/manufacturing execution systems (commonly SAP or JDE); quality management systems (commonly ISO-aligned platforms); office productivity (commonly Excel, PowerPoint)

8. Compensation & Benefits (US Market Benchmark)

  • Base Salary Range: $85,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on industry and site scale
  • Bonus: Annual performance bonus, typically 8 to 15% of base salary
  • Equity: Uncommon at this level; larger manufacturers may offer RSU grants
  • Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, typically effective within 30 days
  • PTO: 15 to 20 days annually, plus company-observed holidays
  • Common Perks: Shift differentials, tuition reimbursement, safety incentive programs, relocation assistance for critical sites


Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

9. EEO & Legal

Work authorization in the United States is required; all offers are contingent on verification of eligibility to work. Employment is also subject to successful completion of a background check and, where applicable, a pre-employment drug screening consistent with site safety requirements. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process upon request.

Business Unit Leader Job Description Examples

1. Business Unit Leader (Pharmaceutical Sales & Marketing)

The Business Unit Leader owns a broad cross-functional remit spanning marketing, sales, and business planning within a pharmaceutical organisation, partnering with Medical Affairs, Government Affairs, and Public Affairs to advance brand performance and quality of care. Reporting to senior leadership and engaging directly with opinion leaders and key stakeholders, this role delivers measurable improvements in market position by aligning strategy with execution across a diverse, high-performing team.


Key Responsibilities

  • Drive operational excellence across marketing, sales, and business planning.
  • Track brand and market performance through dashboards and take corrective action as required.
  • Contribute to the identification of unmet customer needs and future product and service evolution using internal and external intelligence.
  • Lead the sales and marketing organisation to ensure alignment between strategy and execution through a bottom-up and top-down approach.
  • Develop talent, identify high-potential team members, and implement retention strategies.
  • Ensure appropriate development plans are in place for the entire team.
  • Create an inclusive environment that provides every team member with opportunities to develop and succeed.
  • Conduct regular performance reviews with direct reports to build a diverse, high-performing team.
  • Build alliances across functional and regional boundaries to drive value.
  • Partner with Medical Affairs to develop and implement effective strategies.
  • Partner with Government Affairs and Public Affairs to maintain a positive policy environment.
  • Support market access activities and future launches as relevant.
  • Lead customer strategy, value-added initiatives, and stakeholder engagement plans.
  • Establish effective working relationships with opinion leaders and key stakeholders to improve quality of care.


Required Qualifications

  • University or bachelor's degree or equivalent, preferably in a relevant business-related discipline.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in pharmaceutical sales, marketing, and people management.
  • Broad-based background in marketing and sales.
  • Ability to navigate and deliver results within a global, matrixed organisation with a cross-departmental and interdisciplinary approach.
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to structure, develop, and retain a motivated team.
  • Ability to challenge the status quo and act with courage in navigating internal and external market complexity.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, including oral communication, business writing, presenting, and listening.
  • Strong customer focus and service orientation with a proactive and goal-oriented mindset.
  • High level of ethical standards in business conduct.

2. Business Unit Leader (Manufacturing Operations)

Embedded within the production organisation, the Business Unit Leader directs scheduling, manpower planning, quality standards, and inventory control, and coordinates production activities across departments. Working closely with supervisors, managers, and employee teams, this role drives measurable gains in productivity, on-time delivery, and continuous quality improvement through lean production techniques and disciplined daily management.


Core Functions

  • Oversee production scheduling, manpower planning, quality standards, and inventory control, and coordinate production activities with other departments.
  • Hire employees, evaluate training progress, and assess employee performance, recommending promotions, transfers, and disciplinary actions where appropriate.
  • Conduct daily, weekly, and monthly manpower assessments to increase productivity, improve efficiency, reduce scrap, and meet on-time delivery targets.
  • Determine the workflow, overtime needs, extra shifts, and the production sequence.
  • Coordinate daily production meetings, complete statistical reporting, and analyse key performance indicators.
  • Manage the department safety programme and ensure compliance with company safety goals and objectives.
  • Work with production leads and employee teams to implement training programmes and maintain accurate training matrices.
  • Oversee completion of core competency, certified operator, and certified operator trainer programmes.
  • Collaborate with supervisors and managers across departments to define and develop solutions for department-specific requirements.
  • Apply lean production techniques and develop teams, workstations, or cells to support the process.
  • Implement continuous quality improvement techniques and react quickly to changes in customer demand.


Qualifications & Experience

  • Associate's degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school.
  • Five years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software applications.
  • Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and JDE system experience preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as blueprints, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and policy and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to apply mathematical concepts, including probability, statistical inference, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions, to practical situations.
  • Ability to solve practical problems and interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.

3. Business Unit Leader (Medical Device Sales)

Reporting to senior leadership, the Business Unit Leader shapes the full commercial agenda for a medical device or medtech organisation, overseeing forecasts, financial commitments, pricing policy, and new market research. Partnering with sales managers and field teams, this role advances sustainable revenue growth by aligning investment priorities, product launch readiness, and sales force productivity with global strategy.


Primary Duties

  • Review the global product pipeline and provide local market insights on business potential, driving a balanced approach between established and new products.
  • Ensure forecasts, financial commitments, and demand plans are aligned to support new product launches.
  • Prioritise and propose investment opportunities to advance business growth.
  • Communicate and track short- and long-range sales and marketing plans.
  • Research new markets and applications for volume growth.
  • Manage discount and pricing policy.
  • Negotiate contract renewals with government and private enterprises.
  • Conduct regular coaching conversations with sales managers to drive sales force productivity and achieve business objectives.
  • Ensure the field sales organisation is supported with training aligned to business strategy and global standards.
  • Develop and monitor departmental budgets.


Skills & Qualifications

  • University or bachelor's degree or equivalent.
  • At least 8 to 10 years of experience in medical device or medtech sales.
  • Prior people management experience required.
  • Product management experience preferred.
  • Strategic mindset with the ability to develop vision and strategy to drive business outcomes.
  • Strong leadership qualities driven by a passion to excel in a customer-centric and innovative environment.
  • Strong team player with excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.

4. Business Unit Leader (Call Centre Operations)

Sitting at the intersection of client relationship management and operational leadership, the Business Unit Leader drives unit profitability and KPI achievement across quality, employee retention, and contractual compliance within a call centre environment. Operating across cross-functional teams of direct and indirect reports, this role sustains and grows client revenue by serving as the primary point of contact for all assigned client partnerships and ensuring consistent adherence to contractual agreements.


Duties

  • Lead cross-functional teams, including both direct and indirect reports, to achieve company goals and drive overall efficiency.
  • Establish and execute plans to drive unit profitability.
  • Ensure consistent achievement of company and client KPIs, including profitability, quality, and employee retention.
  • Serve as the main point of contact for all assigned clients and partners.
  • Build effective relationships with clients to sustain or increase revenue.
  • Maintain a clear understanding of the statement of work for all assigned client relationships and ensure compliance with all contractual agreements.
  • Manage business unit resources and provide leadership to ensure production and quality standards are met.
  • Develop staff through goal-setting meetings and mentoring.
  • Communicate regularly with upper management regarding performance and areas of non-compliance with contractual agreements.
  • Assist in identifying and controlling risks that threaten the achievement of service commitments and objectives across the organisation.


Position Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree preferred.
  • 5 or more years of experience in call centre operations management.
  • Previous profit and loss management experience preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects.
  • Familiarity with call centre technologies, including CRM, WFM software, and telephony systems.
  • Proficiency in Word, Excel, Windows, and Outlook.
  • Excellent written and verbal interpersonal and communication skills.

5. Business Unit Leader (Continuous Operation Manufacturing)

A key member of the plant leadership team, the Business Unit Leader leads production activities within a continuous operation manufacturing facility, with accountability spanning safety, quality, customer service, cost, and employee engagement across one to three shifts. Collaborating across maintenance, quality, and continuous improvement teams, this role builds workforce capability and drives daily and annual productivity goals through coaching, performance management, and structured progress planning.


Functions

  • Provide leadership, support, and direction to production operators.
  • Manage effective production planning and budget oversight.
  • Identify and implement process improvements.
  • Work with maintenance, quality, and continuous improvement teams to meet daily production and annual productivity goals.
  • Participate in creating and fulfilling the annual progress plan by developing and leading towards key performance indicators.
  • Develop and implement employee coaching plans and work alongside the team to enhance capabilities through effective performance management.
  • Monitor short- and long-term facility needs to ensure succession requirements are met, and employees are given development opportunities.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or technical diploma.
  • 5 or more years of progressive production and people management experience.
  • Demonstrated experience in effective production and maintenance planning.
  • Knowledge and practice of Lean methodology as applied to manufacturing.
  • Demonstrated success in employee performance management, including attendance, productivity, skill development, and talent management.
  • Demonstrated success in production management, including quality, cost, scheduling, and budgeting.

6. Business Unit Leader (Maintenance & Manufacturing)

Sustaining equipment durability, process reliability, and a safe working environment depends on the Business Unit Leader, who leads a multidisciplinary maintenance team to implement the maintenance strategy, manage budgets, and execute corrective actions across a manufacturing site. Based within the plant leadership structure, this role develops and empowers team members while building succession plans that ensure operational continuity and long-term organisational resilience.


Accountabilities

  • Provide a safe working environment for all employees and ensure safe operating conditions of equipment.
  • Implement the maintenance strategy, analyse results, and execute necessary corrective actions.
  • Lead a multidisciplinary maintenance team to ensure equipment durability and resolve obsolescence issues.
  • Contribute to process reliability by implementing and maintaining the effectiveness of maintenance plans.
  • Manage the maintenance budget, covering personnel, supplies, and services.
  • Develop and empower team members and build and update the succession plan.


Experience & Qualifications

  • Technical college diploma, bachelor's or graduate degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 5 or more years of experience as a maintenance manager or supervisor in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience in a coaching or employee development role.
  • Demonstrated experience in successful resource planning.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and resolve issues.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to build positive relationships with internal customers.
  • Proven teamwork, leadership, and planning skills with the ability to set and achieve goals with minimal supervision.

7. Business Unit Leader (Environmental & Water Consulting)

As the Business Unit Leader for the Eastern Business Unit, this role delivers profitable regional growth across water, wastewater, environmental services, and water resources markets, leading a regional leadership team of experienced managers across 43 offices east of the Mississippi River. The Eastern Business Unit relies on this work to advance the company's strategic goals, sustaining strong client relationships, sound financial performance, and a collaborative environment that positions the organisation as the preferred partner for clients and employees alike.


Leadership Responsibilities

  • Lead the regional market and drive growth in alignment with the company's core strategic goals, standards, and operational model.
  • Leverage enterprise teams to deliver projects and outcomes that advance both regional and company-wide success.
  • Prioritise the health, safety, and wellness of all employees.
  • Deliver mutually agreed-upon operating results.
  • Build and sustain strong relationships with clients to ensure continued preference.
  • Communicate confidently and clearly with strong self- and social awareness to ensure employees understand objectives, timelines, and methods.
  • Drive performance and accountability, making necessary decisions to address performance gaps.
  • Execute work with passion and pursue continuous improvement.
  • Demonstrate sound judgement and ethical decision-making.
  • Lead and manage the regional leadership team to deliver agreed-upon goals across financial performance, sales, staff development, safety, risk, project performance, and enterprise collaboration.
  • Ensure adherence to risk management policies and practices, and reduce project breakage across the region.
  • Participate actively in the operations leadership team responsible for delivering the overall financial plan.
  • Acquire, develop, and engage talent as a top priority, recognising talent development as a core business driver.


Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, geology, hydrogeology, or a related field required.
  • Professional registration preferred.
  • MBA or similar advanced business coursework preferred.
  • Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible experience in the environmental services and consulting industry.
  • Experience managing a large portfolio of projects with substantial business impact.
  • Experience managing successfully within a matrixed or enterprise business model.
  • Experience managing at the executive level, including developing other leaders.
  • Ability to develop, sell, and deliver complex integrated projects across a diverse geographic region.
  • Demonstrated financial acumen, including profit and loss responsibility.
  • Excellent knowledge of and presence in key regional markets.
  • Knowledge of market competitors and experience developing teaming partnerships to enhance business growth.
  • Deep understanding of state and local government political processes and experience winning and delivering work in that environment.

8. Business Unit Leader (Food & Consumer Goods Manufacturing)

Business Unit Leader owns full accountability for safety, food safety, quality, cost, service, and people leadership across one to three shifts in a seven-day manufacturing environment at The Hershey Company, managing approximately 100 to 200 employees and an annual budget of $100M to $200M. The work directly supports plant-wide and company goals by developing supervisors, leading cross-functional teams, and driving continuous improvement to sustain a world-class production operation within the broader Supply Chain network.


Day-to-Day Responsibilities

  • Coach, direct, facilitate, train, and develop supervisors to work efficiently in support of the manufacturing mission.
  • Work as part of or lead cross-functional teams to deliver against business objectives.
  • Oversee annual budget preparation, direct implementation, and maintain strong budgetary control of direct, indirect, and unit costs.
  • Assess departments, identify problems, develop solutions, and articulate improvement plans to the plant manager, peers, and direct reports.
  • Ensure effective employee relations through significant floor time and consistent application of work rules.
  • Coordinate, organise, and deliver communication activities concerning objectives, results, and plans within and between the department and all other plant functions.
  • Lead performance management of salaried staff and ensure appropriate employment decisions and issue resolution through proper investigation.
  • Manage, develop, and assess training plans to ensure all department members are aligned with company, plant, and department objectives.
  • Lead and maintain the team as a world-class organisation and serve as the primary owner of the continuous improvement process within the business unit.
  • Determine appropriate delegation of assignments, ensure follow-up, and take ownership of delegated work.


Background & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline preferred.
  • 5 years of experience in manufacturing or equivalent work experience preferred.
  • 3 years in a leadership role preferred.
  • Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points, and OSHA standards.
  • Proficiency in SAP, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and other computer tools.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to inspire and lead diverse workforce teams.
  • Ability to overcome resistance to change, adapt to change, and lead change effectively.
  • Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

9. Business Unit Leader (Food Manufacturing Operations)

The Business Unit Leader delivers safe, reliable, and efficient production line operations within a food manufacturing facility by providing empowered leadership to team leaders, supervisors, and production staff across daily GEMBA walks, Tier III meetings, and continuous improvement activities. Reporting to and interfacing with department heads across maintenance, quality control, and sanitation, this role shapes a culture of safety, quality, and accountability that supports organisational growth and regulatory compliance.


Scope of Work

  • Ensure unit compliance with all safety standards, quality regulations, policies, and training requirements.
  • Inspect areas for safety hazards and observe employees for safe work habits, reporting issues to the appropriate personnel.
  • Develop and implement operating methods and procedures to eliminate operating problems and improve product quality.
  • Communicate the company's expectation levels and vision to unit members.
  • Coordinate with other department heads to integrate objectives and ideas for organisational growth.
  • Conduct daily GEMBA walks and provide feedback to the management team in Tier III meetings.
  • Provide training to team leaders and supervisors in proper procedures, standards, policies, and equipment operation.
  • Mentor and motivate team members to support effective performance and company growth.
  • Review performance reviews for accuracy, fairness, and consistency before distribution, and recommend or initiate promotions, transfers, and disciplinary actions.
  • Review personnel actions with the HR department to ensure consistency with policy and conduct timely management meetings.
  • Track key performance indicators, revise production schedules and priorities in response to equipment failure or operating problems, and coordinate production activities with maintenance, quality control, and sanitation to optimise resource utilisation.
  • Participate actively in safety, quality, and 6S audits and maintain good communication flow within unit shifts.


Technical Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in business management, food science, or equivalent education or experience in the food industry.
  • 5 years of experience in manufacturing management or supervision preferred.
  • Knowledge of GFSI, BRC, SQF, GMP, and other food safety standards, including HACCP.
  • Experience in a continuous improvement environment, including Lean Manufacturing, 6S, and Six Sigma.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office and other computer-based applications.
  • Strong leadership, interpersonal, and analytical skills with strong accountability and follow-through.
  • Decision-making skills with the ability to analyse information and evaluate results to reach sound conclusions.
  • Ability to work under pressure and to tight schedules.
  • Ability to identify new opportunities and develop specific plans and goals.
  • Ability to motivate team members and build team spirit, fostering mutual respect and cooperation.
  • Flexible schedule availability, including some weekends and holidays as needed.

10. Business Unit Leader (Interior Construction)

Embedded within the construction organisation, the Business Unit Leader manages teams, people, and processes across all aspects of an interiors business unit to drive profitability, self-sustaining growth, and compliance with corporate budget and employee development objectives. Working closely with preconstruction, strategy, acquisition, and project teams, this role builds client relationships, leads tender bid activity, and oversees contractual performance to deliver consistent financial outcomes and talent development across the business unit.


Project Responsibilities

  • Promote and ensure compliance with subcontractor default insurance, bonding, professional liability, general liability, and builder's risk policies, and manage associated claims.
  • Research, analyse, and maintain working knowledge of current market conditions, including pricing and trends.
  • Develop and track leads for upcoming and pre-development projects, and work with strategy and acquisition teams to bring in new and repeat work.
  • Make Go/No-Go decisions on projects under consideration and oversee the overall strategic direction of the business unit.
  • Review, negotiate, and execute all prime owner and subcontractor contracts in a manner consistent with company policies.
  • Participate actively in industry organisations at the board level and represent the company at networking functions and trade shows.
  • Lead the preconstruction and bidding process, providing constructability, schedule, and process input in partnership with the preconstruction group.
  • Interface with owners and construction managers during preconstruction to sell work and close contracts.
  • Work in partnership with the strategy and acquisition team in preparing responses to RFPs, including narratives, logistics plans, and schedule input.
  • Lead project teams in preparing for and participating in interviews and presentations.
  • Oversee contractual performance of all projects to ensure compliance with scope, schedule, and quality.
  • Lead project teams in monthly company project reviews, confirming proper presentation of project risks and financial management.
  • Mentor and train project team members to support growth and development within the organisation, and collaborate with talent acquisition to source new talent for the business unit.
  • Coach direct reports using the company coaching programme to develop talent and grow the business unit.


Professional Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in construction management, business, engineering, or a related field.
  • OSHA 30-hour, First Aid, and CPR certifications.
  • Commensurate experience managing complex construction projects, multiple project teams, and financial reporting.
  • Demonstrated experience in risk management and positive project financial results.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Procore, Bluebeam, Pvault, Primavera scheduling, and BIM.
  • Proven track record of client satisfaction and profitability.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to assess and prioritise multiple tasks, projects, and demands.
  • Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills.

11. Business Unit Leader (Warehouse & Logistics Operations)

Reporting to line management, the Business Unit Leader leads a warehouse operations team to deliver reliable, high-quality service and productivity by coaching operators, tracking productivity indicators, and ensuring alignment with daily production plans and site objectives. Partnering with shift process leaders, peer business unit leaders, and the workforce team, this role advances continuous process improvement and compliance with quality assurance policies across inventory, distribution, and documentation control functions.


Work Activities

  • Analyse data and track operator productivity indicators and behaviours to provide feedback and recommendations to management.
  • Develop the team by providing coaching, training, and guidance, and ensure each worker has received appropriate and up-to-date training.
  • Collaborate with peers, including other business unit leaders, shift process leaders, and the workforce team, to deliver high and stable service and productivity.
  • Ensure alignment and consistency with peers from the second shift in business unit management.
  • Inform line management and relevant departments of all incidents and provide end-of-shift feedback.
  • Ensure the quality assurance policy is applied and respected within the business unit, including housekeeping, procedures, deviations, and compliance.
  • Ensure processes related to business unit activities are documented and updated in the quality management system in accordance with documentation control requirements.
  • Investigate and analyse problems and performance issues, and implement relevant corrective actions.


Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree, preferably in management or logistics, or equivalent experience.
  • At least 3 years of experience in a logistics environment.
  • Knowledge of inventory and distribution management and the flow of goods within a warehouse.
  • Knowledge of a warehouse management system and an ERP system.
  • Good knowledge of MS Office.
  • People-oriented with strong communication skills, proactivity, and a willingness to learn.
  • Leadership ability with respect for others, accountability, and flexibility.

12. Business Unit Leader (Antifouling & Microbial Control)

Sitting at the intersection of global strategy and commercial execution, the Business Unit Leader plans, develops, and directs all aspects of the Antifouling and Microbial Control business unit under the General Manager of Janssen PMP, formulating strategic plans and objectives aligned to divisional goals. Operating across existing customer accounts and new business development opportunities worldwide, this role maximises performance by setting clear goals, negotiating legal agreements, and contributing to divisional strategic direction as a member of the Leadership Team.


Strategic Responsibilities

  • Plan, develop, and direct all aspects of the business unit based on sales, profitability, and other agreed objectives.
  • Formulate and communicate overall business objectives, policies, and strategic plans for the business unit.
  • Ensure effective implementation and execution of policies and plans to maintain business growth and achieve long- and short-term objectives.
  • Develop and execute the short-, mid-, and long-term strategy for the business unit to grow the antifouling and microbial control business globally in line with divisional strategy.
  • Lead the business unit team to maximise performance and productivity by setting clear goals and communicating expectations consistently.
  • Manage and support the existing customer base, and identify and realise new business opportunities.
  • Identify key development projects in the context of long-term business strategy to maintain and grow sales and market share.
  • Supervise and develop business unit team members through empowerment and coaching to ensure successful operation.
  • Negotiate legal agreements with existing and future customers and business partners.
  • Contribute to the definition of strategic direction for the division through participation in the leadership team.


Qualifications & Experience

  • University degree in a relevant scientific or business discipline.
  • 5 to 10 years of experience in a technical or commercial function.
  • Advanced business acumen and strategic thinking mindset.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships.
  • Strong communication and influencing skills.
  • Fluency in English, both spoken and written.

13. Business Unit Leader (Plant Operations & Continuous Improvement)

A key member of the plant leadership structure, the Business Unit Leader leads the people, equipment, and processes of an assigned production area across all three shifts, with 24-hour accountability for safety, quality, and budget results. Collaborating across engineering, process safety, product development, reliability, and network teams, this role builds team leader capability and drives continuous improvement through daily management systems, strategic planning, and capital forecasting to produce extraordinary results.


Ownership Areas

  • Ensure clear direction and priorities for the business unit and align these with the overall site across all three shifts.
  • Develop and maintain the team work plan and budget.
  • Manage direct and indirect labour efficiently.
  • Develop team leaders, service leaders, and other leadership personnel through training, coaching, and facilitation.
  • Manage the safety system within the assigned area.
  • Lead the development of key daily management systems in the business unit, including DDS, CL, RCFA, and operational standards documentation.
  • Communicate business unit results and needs to senior management.
  • Provide organisational leadership to foster positive employee relations and meet the evolving needs of the business.
  • Track and address gaps in results versus the work plan and budget across all KPIs, including safety and quality.
  • Engage in all activities including daily management, budgeting, strategic planning, enabler planning and execution, and the capital forecasting process.
  • Interface with multiple functions within the plant, as well as engineering, process safety, product development, reliability, and network teams.


Knowledge Skills & Abilities

  • Bachelor's degree in a business or technical field.
  • Master's degree preferred.
  • 3 to 5 years of experience in operations or a related field.
  • Industrial engineering, continuous improvement, or cross-functional operations experience preferred.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Above-average knowledge of computer database tools, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Strong initiative to drive improvements across a variety of areas with minimal supervision.
  • Strong commitment to personal development and growth.
  • Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Good planning, prioritisation, and multiple-priority management skills.

14. Business Unit Leader (HVAC Retail Operations)

Sustained maximum sales, profitability, and exceptional customer service in an HVAC retail environment depend on the Business Unit Leader, who oversees store operations, merchandise, inventory, expense control, and team member relations while embodying the organisation's Guiding Principles. Serving as the communication liaison between the store and central services, this role enables continuous improvement in store procedures, staff development, and product-specific training to grow a high-performing team.


Key Deliverables

  • Lead and mentor business unit team members.
  • Facilitate continuing education and product-specific training.
  • Ensure appropriate staff levels at store locations.
  • Serve as a communication liaison between the store and central services.
  • Assist in marketing and new product team communications.
  • Train team members in the use of relevant tools, including scheduling and communication software.
  • Facilitate new team member onboarding and mentoring.
  • Participate in and communicate strategic planning.
  • Facilitate the store of excellence programme.
  • Ensure continuous improvement in store procedures.
  • Communicate profit and loss statements with team members to support continuous improvement.
  • Ensure exceptional customer service levels and maintain store cleanliness and appearance.


Qualifications & Experience

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • At least 5 years of experience in the HVAC industry, including 6 to 10 years preferred.
  • At least 5 years of experience working in a retail store.
  • 1 to 3 years of experience in a warehouse environment within the HVAC industry.
  • At least 2 years of experience in a supervisory, lead, or management position.
  • At least 1 year of experience managing a budget for a division, store, or department.
  • 1 to 3 years of experience using inventory or ERP tracking software and a point-of-sale system.
  • 5 or more years of experience in a customer-facing, phone, or internet-based customer service role.
  • 2 or more years in a customer service management position.

15. Business Unit Leader (Data Centre & Facilities Management)

As the Business Unit Leader, this role oversees day-to-day delivery of the business unit with full operational responsibility for rapid, sustainable growth, statutory compliance, staff management, and high-level customer relationship development across the data centre or facilities management industry. The data centre and facilities management organisation relies on this work to sustain profitability, lead tender bid activity, and drive health, safety, and environment improvements while managing and developing direct reports across potentially multiple countries or regions.


Performance Expectations

  • Oversee the day-to-day delivery of the business unit, driving rapid sustainable growth, statutory compliance and governance, and staff management and development.
  • Develop the customer base continually and maintain full operational responsibility for the business unit.
  • Formulate business and sales plans in response to anticipated economic, technological, and market trends.
  • Identify, track, and influence key KPIs and financial performance metrics to deliver required performance levels.
  • Lead quality, health, safety, and environment improvements as a matter of course.
  • Create a culture of exceptional quality and innovation.
  • Build and develop high-level customer relationships with existing and potential customers by fully understanding their needs and demands.
  • Lead tender bid activity, including sales and operational resourcing, sign-offs, document and commercial reviews, and presentation standards.
  • Ensure all sales pipeline activity is as accurate as possible for projects and contract opportunities.
  • Identify and target suitable quality and volume of work, in partnership with the business development team, to enhance growth and value in the business unit and overall company.
  • Manage and develop direct reports, including creating training plans, coaching for improvement, addressing performance concerns, and succession planning.


Background & Experience

  • Experience in reliable management of relevant profit and loss levels.
  • Proven experience leading large teams, including in multiple countries or regions where required.
  • Managerial experience at country, account director level, or above within technical or hard services.
  • Proven track record within the data centre or facilities management industry.
  • Excellent motivational and influencing skills.
  • Excellent understanding of health and safety legislation.
  • Ability to manage conflict and crises effectively.

16. Business Unit Leader (Chemical Manufacturing)

Business Unit Leader leads cross-functional teams to promote safety awareness, drive continuous improvement, and deliver against profit and loss targets within a chemical manufacturing environment, with accountability spanning ISO quality programmes, process safety management, and production records. The work directly supports plant-wide performance by analysing product line results, implementing root cause corrective actions, and developing production personnel to sustain customer satisfaction and regulatory compliance.


Engineering Responsibilities

  • Promote and maintain a high level of safety awareness and regulatory compliance across the product line.
  • Lead cross-functional teams to identify root causes and implement corrective actions for repetitive issues impacting plant safety, quality, and productivity.
  • Set and establish priorities and expectations for the product line.
  • Analyse product line performance and develop safe, sustainable solutions to ensure customer needs are met.
  • Drive continuous improvement efforts and maintain and implement process control.
  • Teach and coach production personnel.
  • Maintain production records and ensure product traceability.
  • Lead group risk management activities and maintain the ISO quality programme for the product line.
  • Control budget spend to match profit and loss targets and analyse production financial variances.


Skills & Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or business preferred.
  • Previous management or supervisory experience, including demonstrated leadership of a cross-functional team.
  • Manufacturing experience within the chemical industry.
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, continuous improvement, root cause analysis, and change management.
  • Experience working with process safety management.
  • Experience using the Microsoft Office suite.
  • Ability to manage time and work assignments for self and others.
  • Demonstrated team-building skills and the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of management and technical staff.

Editorial Process and Content Quality

This content is developed by the Lamwork Editorial Team using structured analysis of real-world job data, skill requirements, and hiring patterns.

Research framework by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead.

Reviewed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor.

Learn more about our editorial standards.