Juan Gabriel Varela
Industrial Engineering
Panama City
Summary
Dynamic and results-oriented leader with 15 years of expertise in managing large-scale manufacturing facilities and driving operational excellence across diverse industries. Demonstrated ability to lead high-performing teams, optimize production systems, and implement sustainable strategies that align with long-term organizational goals. Committed to fostering innovation, integrity, and empathy to create lasting value and achieve business growth.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
2025
2025
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Director of Operations for Pascual and La Suprema
Empresa Panameña De Alimentos
Panama City
06.2023 - Current
- Ensure efficient administration of the production process, aligned with strategic plans, guaranteeing quality and food safety
- Develop strategies to optimize costs, improve yields and efficiencies, ensuring product profitability
- Maintain infrastructure and equipment in optimal conditions, complying with safety, sanitation, and environmental control standards
- Implement management and continuous improvement systems and Industry 4.0 technologies to optimize operations and support decision-making
- Integrate operations with the company's strategy, fostering a positive work environment and developing staff competencies
- Oversee daily operations across multiple departments, ensuring seamless coordination and efficient execution of tasks.
- Mentor and coach team members to foster productive and engaging work environment.
Production Manager for Pascual and La Suprema
Empresa Panameña de Alimentos
Panama City
04.2016 - 05.2023
- Directed operations for industrial facilities with over 400 employees, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and adherence to global standards
- Achieved a 58% reduction in production waste through the implementation of a waste measurement system within 18 months
- Increased production planning accuracy by 26% via synchronized planning cycles and integrated maintenance schedules
- Led the team to secure the first-ever FSSC 22000 certification for food manufacturing facilities, enhancing product quality and safety standards
- Eliminated disposable plastic usage in ingredient weighing operations, pioneering sustainable practices
- Strengthened union relations, fostering a collaborative work environment aligned with operational goals
Production Manager for Cafe Duran
Empresa Panameña de Alimentos
Panama City
07.2010 - 03.2016
- Optimized production efficiencies by devising and implementing targeted strategies tailored to facility needs
- Developed a productivity bonus plan, reducing roasting waste by 21% and overtime costs by 12%
- Served as a key member of the coffee cupping panel, ensuring exceptional product quality
- Effectively managed a $200,000+ monthly operations budget, maintaining resource efficiency and operational continuity
Education
Circular Economy and Sustainability Strategies -
University of Cambridge
01-2021
Master of Engineering in Engineering Management (MEEM) - undefined
University of Louisville
Bachelor’s Degree - Industrial Engineering and Management
Universidad Santa María La Antigua
Panama City 01.2004 - 12.2007
Skills
- Strategic Leadership
- Visionary Thinking
- Operational Efficiency
- Cost Optimization
- Team Building
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- Problem Solving
- Continuous Improvement
- Circular Economy Initiatives
Hobbies
- Photography: I enjoy taking photos of nature, especially outdoors. It allows me to explore my creativity and practice observation and patience.
Timeline
Director of Operations for Pascual and La Suprema
Empresa Panameña De Alimentos
06.2023 - Current
Production Manager for Pascual and La Suprema
Empresa Panameña de Alimentos
04.2016 - 05.2023
Production Manager for Cafe Duran
Empresa Panameña de Alimentos
07.2010 - 03.2016
Bachelor’s Degree - Industrial Engineering and Management
Universidad Santa María La Antigua
01.2004 - 12.2007
Master of Engineering in Engineering Management (MEEM) - undefined
University of Louisville
Circular Economy and Sustainability Strategies -
University of Cambridge
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