Despatch Supervisor DBP in Downpatrick

Be part of something big. Finnebrogue is a leading UK-based food producer within the global Sofina Foods Group. We look at what is wrong with food to figure out how to make it the best it can be. Operating from four facilities in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, Finnebrogue supplies major supermarkets with own-label bacon, sausages, burgers, and vegetarian products, as well as its pioneering Naked range made without nitrites. We have been recognised as the UK’s Employer of the Year by Grocer Gold and the Best Place to Work in Northern Ireland by the Irish News Workplace & Employment Awards. Our robust People Strategy offers career pathways and development opportunities for all employees, emphasising talent growth and wellbeing with generous benefits for all. We are proud to be the first food producer in the UK and Ireland to achieve the Diversity Mark accreditation and are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace.

Purpose of the Role

To supervise and lead the Despatch team to ensure accurate, efficient and safe picking and loading of chilled goods. The Despatch Supervisor will ensure that all outbound orders are prepared to the highest standard, inventory is accurately managed, and health & safety procedures are adhered to at all times. The role requires effective team leadership, a strong focus on accuracy, and the ability to operate within a fast‑paced environment.

Operational

• Supervise day‑to‑day operations within the Despatch department, ensuring all customer orders are picked, packed, and despatched accurately and on time.
• Oversee the loading of outbound vehicles, ensuring compliance with load plans and customer requirements.
• Monitor and maintain inventory accuracy, ensuring all stock movements are correctly recorded.
• Ensure all relevant despatch documentation is completed accurately and on time.
• Work closely with the Senior Supervisor and other departments (Production, Intake, Transport, and Quality) to ensure smooth workflow and resolve issues.

Team Leadership

• Manage and motivate the Despatch team to achieve departmental KPIs and performance targets.
• Provide on-the-job coaching and support to team members.
• Assist in planning team rotas and assigning daily tasks.
• Conduct team briefings to communicate targets, updates, and key messages.
• Monitor staff performance and attendance, reporting any concerns to the Senior Supervisor.

Health & Safety / Compliance

• Champion a culture of health & safety within the department, ensuring all team members comply with company policies and relevant legislation.
• Conduct regular checks to ensure safe use of all equipment and materials, including MHE (Material Handling Equipment).
• Ensure safe loading of vehicles, compliant with weight distribution and load securing requirements.

MHE

• Support team members in safe operation of MHE; MHE experience is desirable but full training will be provided.
• Ensure pre‑use checks are completed for all MHE and elevate any issues appropriately.

Hours of Work

5 days per week (including weekend work on rota) 8am-5pm

Benefits

At Finnebrogue, we offer more than just a job – we provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support and reward our employees. Working in one of our state‑of‑the‑art facilities, you’ll enjoy free onsite parking and access to electric charging points and a restaurant‑standard canteen with all meals subsidised, including free breakfast options. You’ll enjoy access to our award‑winning Food Shack, where you can receive up to 5 free food products per week. You’ll also have confidential support through Insula Wellbeing, our on‑site counsellors. We offer a full calendar of wellbeing, social, and sports events, helping you stay balanced and connected. As you settle into the business, your benefits will continue to grow, with the Perks Discount card, gym membership, cashback healthcare plan, cycle‑to‑work scheme, and even your birthday as a paid holiday.