Kumeshan Naidoo

Results-driven Senior Factory Manager with 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in FMCG and high volume manufacturing environments. Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams, optimise plant performance, reduce operational costs, and drive continuous improvement across production, quality, engineering, and SHE functions. Strong commercial acumen with full accountability for production strategy, cost control, compliance, workforce management, and operational excellence.

Experienced in ISO systems, TPM implementation, SAP governance, union engagement, and OHS Act (Section 16.2) accountability.

Senior Factory Manager – Serviette, Slitter & Ink Division - Universal Paper and Plastics

(2023-07)

Full operational leadership of the Serviette, Slitter & Ink Factory with accountability for production performance, safety, quality, engineering coordination, and financial control.

• Lead and execute manufacturing strategy aligned to business objectives.
• Direct production planning, scheduling, and output optimisation.
• Manage departmental budgets and cost containment initiatives.
• Ensure ISO9001 compliance and QMS implementation.
• Oversee plant safety, housekeeping, and regulatory compliance.
• Liaise with Engineering on planned and breakdown maintenance.
• Lead performance management, disciplinary processes, and workforce planning.
• Provide KPI reporting and operational analysis to executive leadership.

Unit Production Manager - Ola Ice Cream | Unilever South Africa

(2020-03 - 2023-07)

• Delivered production plans aligned to plant demand and commercial targets.
• Reduced MUC and conversion cost losses against budget.
• Applied mass balance principles to optimise raw material utilisation.
• Led daily performance reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensured SAP compliance and accurate stock governance.
• Managed audit readiness (quarterly & annual).
• Developed structured Personal Development Plans (PDPs).
• Acted as Section 16.2 appointee ensuring full OHS compliance.
• Managed union relationships and facilitated conflict resolution.

Shift Coordinator - Unilever South Africa

(2018 - 2020)

• Managed factory start-up/shutdown, production performance, quality compliance and team leadership
• Drove 5S implementation and cost-of-waste reduction initiatives

Machine Operator/ Team leader - Unilever South Africa

(2006 - 2018)

• Progressed from Operator to Team Leader to Autonomous Operator, demonstrating consistent performance, leadership growth, and technical capability within high-volume FMCG environments.

Matric (Grade 12) - Stanmore Secondary School

Computer Training - Hi-Tech Computer Training Centre

Ongoing development - Lean Manufacturing, TPM, SHE Compliance, and SAP Systems