Warehouse and Production Operative in Ashford

Chapel Down, England's leading and most recognised English wine producer, is recruiting a Warehouse & Production Operative with confident, safety-focused forklift skills and a valid licence to support our production and logistics operations. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys practical work, operating machinery and being part of a fast-paced production environment. The position is based across several areas of the production department and will support warehouse movements, goods inwards and outwards and picking and packing of stock. The role will also assist across key production activities including riddling, transfers, disgorging, and labelling, working closely with colleagues to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.

We are looking for a confident communicator who works well with colleagues at all levels. A positive, can-do attitude and a willingness to "get stuck in" are essential along with a practical mindset and an interest in understanding and improving processes. You will be a flexible team player who responds well to changing production demands, while also being self-motivated and capable of working independently and using initiative.

• Warehouse & Forklift Operations:
• Safe and efficient forklift truck operation, ensuring all movements are carried out in line with site procedures and health and safety standards;
• Responsibility for loading and unloading deliveries, including dry goods, packaging materials, and finished wine;
• Ensuring safe loading, unloading and movement of stock within the warehouse;
• Support riddling operations including the set-up and completion of stock transfers and assist with maintaining accurate stock movements through the use of internal systems and documentation;
• Regular stock checks will form part of the role, alongside a responsibility to keep the warehouse and cellar areas clean, organised and compliant with health and safety requirements at all times.
• Production Support:
• Assist on disgorging and labelling lines as required, providing hands-on support to ensure production targets are met efficiently and safely with continuous monitoring of product quality. This will include supporting line set-up, product changeovers, and end-of-run activities;
• Carrying out basic cleaning, maintenance and housekeeping tasks to ensure production areas and equipment are kept in good working order and maintained to a high standard.

• A competent forklift operator with a valid forklift licence.
• Willing to work across warehouse and production environments as required by operational needs.

• Previous experience in a warehouse, winery or manufacturing role would be advantageous, particularly within food, drink, or FMCG environments;
• Exposure to bottling, labelling, disgorging, or riddling operations are also beneficial.

This role is based on-site across our production and warehouse locations in Ashford, Kent. The working pattern is day shift, Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week.

This is a permanent role with the following:

• Competitive salary
• Performance related annual bonus
• 25 days' holiday plus a day off on your birthday
• Wine allowance
• Employee Discount
• Company pension
• Enhanced family leave policies
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Quarterly company social events

Chapel Down is England's leading and largest wine producer with an award-winning range of sparkling and still wines. Chapel Down's status as the most recognised English wine brand is supported by its partnerships with flagship sporting and cultural events including Ascot, The Boat Race and Pub In The Park and Chapel Down is the 'Official Sparkling Wine' of the England and Wales Cricket Board. Our products are widely available in the premium off trade, as well as being served in some of the UK's finest bars and restaurants. The Company also welcomes approximately 60,000 visitors a year for winery tours and tastings at its brand home and retail experience in Tenterden, Kent. Chapel Down is proud to be recognised in Sunday Times 'Best Places to Work' in 2023, 2024 and 2025.