Group Head Primary & Secondary Production

A leading force in the Middle East’s gas manufacturing industry, Gulf Cryo draws on a 70-year legacy as the region’s foremost manufacturer and provider of atmospheric gas solutions.

With extensive air separation units, advanced production capabilities, and an integrated pipeline network, Gulf Cryo supplies a broad portfolio of gases, including oxygen, nitrogen, acetylene, carbon dioxide, dry ice, hydrogen, and nitrous oxide, to meet diverse industry needs.

As the region’s largest provider of sustainable CO₂ solutions for the merchant market, Gulf Cryo champions a circular carbon economy by capturing and utilizing CO₂.

The company is also advancing hydrogen applications in mobility and clean energy.

The Group Head Primary & Secondary Production will be responsible for driving, setting up standards, and ensuring operational excellence/competitiveness across

all primary and secondary production activities (ASU, CO2, Hydrogen, Packaged gases including cylinder filling and Distribution operations etc.),

meeting or surpassing global standards.

The role ensures compliance with internal standards and regulatory requirements, while building a high-performing team focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement to support business growth and customer satisfaction.

Reporting to:

CEO with a dotted line to VP Technical & Engineering

· Oversee bulk gas production and packaged gas (PG) operations, across Gulf Cryo facilities, ensuring

optimal plant utilization and cost efficiency.

· Ensure production reliability and equipment uptime in line with KPI/PPA targets.

· Support automation & digitalization.

· Drive continuous improvement to reduce filling losses, cylinder turnaround time and enhance overall

equipment effectiveness (OEE).

· Ensure effective facility management, housekeeping, and strict adherence to safety protocols.

· Ensure standardization and efficiency across filling plants, cylinder handling, testing, and distribution

interfaces.

· Lead and manage all aspects of plant operations, ensuring safety, quality, and performance.

· Drive Safety initiatives (e.g., Golden Rules, Eagle Eye).

· Analyse lead-times and cycle-times to establish and track operational goals.

· Lead the development and improvement of production methods and processes.

· Stay updated on technological advancements and regulatory changes affecting operations.

· Oversee preventive maintenance, equipment repairs, and capital investment planning.

· Lead budgeting, asset planning, and strategic operations planning.

· Support the VP Technical with new Bulk projects starting from diligence audits, Operational/Safety

reviews during construction phase, pre-commissioning and commissioning activities.

· Monitor and optimize cylinder fleet management, refurbishment, and asset utilization.

· Directly mentor site operations managers and prepare them for future leadership roles.

· Set clear performance objectives, conduct regular reviews, and lead capability development initiatives.

· Foster a strong safety-first culture in all operational teams.

· Support HAZOP reviews, Synergi case investigations, and customer complaint resolution.

· Ensure compliance with HSE procedures, legal requirements, and regulatory approvals.

· Implement risk mitigation strategies to enhance business continuity and operational resilience.

· Ensure safe handling, storage, and transportation of cylinders and packaged gases in line with HSE and

regulatory standards.

Work with Sales & Distribution teams to align bulk, packaged gases, and cylinder distribution with demand.

Partner with Procurement to secure key spare parts cylinders, valves, and filling equipment and supplies for ASU and CO₂ plants.

Engage with customers across bulk, pipeline, and packaged gases segments, ensuring high service levels.

Interface with Management and Commercial teams regarding production and quality issues.