At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead production activities and ensure quality standards are met in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Dale Farm, a leading UK dairy co-operative with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension, life assurance, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Flexible shifts and a supportive culture focused on teamwork and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced industry while developing your career.
- Qualifications: 3 years of experience in food or FMCG, strong leadership, and problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Dale Farm Cooperative is a UK dairy farmer co-operative owned by over 1200 dairy farmers who supply us with fresh milk. Dale Farm has operations throughout the UK and Ireland producing and distributing a wide range of dairy products which it sells across the UK and Ireland as well as exporting to over 45 countries worldwide.
Our culture is based on setting best in class standards, working towards and delivering on committed objectives, striving for constant improvement and involving everyone in the company. We strive to develop our people and harness everyone's contribution to deliver a winning team.
The company is an Equal Opportunities employer and is committed to a safe, inclusive and relationship-based workspace.
In return, we offer a high degree of responsibility, plenty of challenge, good opportunities for learning and personal development and rewarding benefit packages, all within a fast-moving and results-oriented environment.
As a Relief Shift Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring the efficient operation of all production activities. The role includes general dairy supervision with the ability to cover milk intake as required. The hours for this role are 6.30am to 6:30pm but applicants must be flexible for the possibility of late shift cover.
The key responsibilities of the role will include:
- Ensuring the daily production plan is completed in full to meet all customer demands.
- Organising labour to ensure all roles are covered adequately.
- Ensuring quality standards are met, and all compliance checks are being followed.
- Raising and correcting issues as they arise.
- Maintaining Health and Safety standards on the shop floor, and highlighting risks or poor compliance to these.
- Interacting and prioritising shift engineering resource as required.
- Providing operational support to the shift, including online activity and machine operation.
- Acting as the management point of contact for the production department.
- Completing daily production, productivity records and end of shift checks.
- Providing operational cover within the milk intake function, covering all tasks within this role.
The successful candidates will have at least 3 years process experience within the food or FMCG industry. They must demonstrate leadership skills as well as problem-solving and decision-making abilities. As this role requires shift working, candidates must be flexible and adaptable and willing to work shifts. Candidates should also be proficient in the use of IT and should have strong interpersonal and communication skills.
We are looking for highly motivated and ambitious candidates with the energy, determination, and mindset to ensure the effective delivery of production targets within a challenging and dynamic environment. The successful candidates will have the desire to drive forward success.
In return, the successful candidate can embark on this excellent opportunity for both career and personal development. The company also provides an excellent benefits package including competitive salary, pension and life assurance.
To apply for this position please visit. The closing date for applications is 5pm on Friday 28th November 2025.
Relief Production Shift Manager - Pennybridge in Ballymena employer: Dale Farm Ltd
Dale Farm Cooperative is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement. As a Relief Production Shift Manager, you will enjoy a dynamic work environment with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, supported by a competitive benefits package including a pension and life assurance. With a commitment to inclusivity and high standards, Dale Farm empowers its employees to take on significant responsibilities while contributing to the success of a leading dairy producer in the UK and Ireland.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Relief Production Shift Manager - Pennybridge in Ballymena
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Dale Farm Ltd, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Relief Production Shift Manager - Pennybridge in Ballymena
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Dale Farm Ltd specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dale Farm Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Dale Farm Ltd, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Dale Farm Ltd value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
