Operations Manager

* Location: Marrakech, Morocco
* Type: Full-time
* Reports to: CEO

Company Overview:

ABL Botanicals is a Morocco-based producer of premium natural ingredients for the cosmetics, fragrance, and wellness industries. With two 100% organic farms spanning over 300 hectares and a portfolio of more than 25 aromatic plants, we are committed to sustainable agriculture, ethical sourcing, and the highest quality essential oil production.

We are currently building a state-of-the-art distillation unit on-site to vertically integrate our supply chain and enhance quality control from farm to oil.

Role Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and versatile Operations Manager with deep knowledge of aromatic plant farming and essential oil production. This leadership role will oversee the complete operational workflow of our farms, distillation facility, raw material sourcing, and quality control department. The successful candidate will absorb and manage the responsibilities previously handled by both the Sourcing Manager and Quality Control Manager, and play a critical role in the development of our new distillation unit.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Farm and Distillation Operations

* Oversee and coordinate daily operations on our 300-hectare organic farms.
* Supervise the construction and future operation of the distillation unit for essential oil production.
* Develop SOPs for harvesting, handling, and processing aromatic plants in alignment with organic and GMP standards.
* Manage post-harvest logistics to ensure timely and quality input to the distillation unit.

2. Sourcing & Supplier Network

* Manage local sourcing of raw materials from partner farmers and wild harvesters.
* Build and maintain strong, ethical, and transparent relationships with suppliers.
* Conduct market research to identify new sourcing opportunities and pricing trends.
* Develop strategies to ensure consistent, high-quality, and cost-effective supply of raw materials.

3. Quality Control & Compliance

* Implement and oversee quality control protocols from raw material intake through finished product testing.
* Ensure products meet international quality standards (ISO, ORANIC, etc.).
* Collaborate with laboratory staff to interpret test results and improve batch quality.
* Prepare and maintain documentation for audits, certifications, and client specifications.

4. Team Leadership & Process Management

* Lead, mentor, and manage a cross-functional team (field staff, QC technicians, procurement officers).
* Monitor operational performance and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
* Foster collaboration across departments, including production, logistics, and sales.

Candidate Profile:

Required Experience & Skills

* Minimum 5–7 years experience in operations, farm management, essential oil production, or related fields.
* Proven track record in managing agricultural production and processing units (especially aromatic plants).
* Strong experience in sourcing, quality control, and compliance in the natural ingredients sector.
* Familiarity with organic certification standards and distillation technologies.
* Fluent in French and English.
* Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.
* Ability to work autonomously, adapt quickly, and manage multiple priorities.

Education

* Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Chemical Engineering, Operations Management, or related fields.
* Advanced degree or certifications in Quality Management or Supply Chain are a plus.

What We Offer:

* Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
* The opportunity to lead a growing and impactful operation
* A values-driven, collaborative work environment
* Career growth in a rapidly expanding industry