We are seeking a highly capable, hands-on Project Lead to design, implement, and operationalize a cocopeat production facility in Kilifi County. This is not an advisory or strategy role. We are looking for someone who can build, commission, and stabilize operations within 12 months. Kentaste was established to provide smallholder farmers with a reliable, fair income from the millions of coconut trees growing along Kenya’s coast. This project aims to expand that impact through value-add processing of coconut husks.
Duties and Responsibilities
Facility & Operations Setup
Oversee equipment procurement, installation, and commissioning.
Design production workflow and plant layout.
Develop SOPs and quality assurance systems.
Recruit and train the initial operations team.
Product & Market Development
Define product specifications for Kenyan greenhouse operators.
Conduct product trials with horticulture clients.
Support early customer onboarding and commercial agreements.
Develop cost structure and pricing model.
Establish packaging and logistics processes.
Financial & Performance Management
Develop operating budgets and working capital model.
Implement KPI tracking (yield, throughput, cost per m3, rejection rates).
Drive production economics to commercial viability.
Raw Material & Supply Chain Optimization
Design efficient husk collection and internal transport systems.
Ensure consistent raw material quality.
Optimize waste utilization.
Qualifications and Experience
7–10+ years’ experience in agro-processing, light manufacturing, or horticultural input production.
Demonstrated experience setting up, commissioning, or scaling a production facility.
Strong operational execution capability.
Commercial mindset with the ability to engage sophisticated B2B customers.
Willingness to be physically present in Kilifi during implementation.
Minimum of a BA/BSc/HND.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should email their applications to jobs@kentaste.com with the subject line "Cocopeat Project Lead" before the deadline on 27th February 2026.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, send an email to jobs@kentaste.com. Ensure the subject of the email is Cocopeat Project Lead. The application deadline is 27th February 2026.
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