At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and modernise operations for a beloved Scottish food brand.
- Company: Mackays, a leading producer of premium jams and chutneys since 1938.
- Benefits: Join a pivotal growth phase with a focus on innovation and quality.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence significant growth and operational evolution.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a heritage brand while driving operational excellence.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in manufacturing or FMCG operations required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 € per year.
Mackays is one of Scotland’s most recognisable food brands and a leading producer of premium jams, marmalades, curds and chutneys, supplying retail, food service and international markets from its manufacturing facility in Arbroath. Founded in 1938, the business combines authentic small-batch production heritage with a growing international footprint and ambitious plans for further growth.
Following recent investment and a renewed strategic growth agenda, and the retirement of the incumbent Factory Manager, Mackays is seeking to appoint an Operations Director to lead and modernise the operational platform of the business. Reporting to the Managing Director, this is a broad executive leadership role with responsibility across manufacturing, engineering, supply chain, planning, procurement and technical operations.
The successful candidate will lead the next phase of operational evolution, improving efficiency, automation, systems, quality and operational resilience whilst maintaining the authenticity and quality synonymous with the Mackays and Mrs Bridges brands. The business has significant existing manufacturing capacity and is targeting substantial growth over the coming years.
Candidates are likely to bring:
- Significant senior manufacturing or FMCG operations leadership experience
- Strong factory, engineering and supply chain leadership capability
- A track record of operational improvement, automation and continuous improvement delivery
- Experience balancing quality, brand integrity and operational performance
- A pragmatic, hands-on and commercially minded leadership style
- Experience supplying UK grocery retail and food service channels would be advantageous; however, we are looking to engage with a wide range of experienced Operations candidates bringing fresh thinking and lean manufacturing knowledge from a variety of sectors.
This represents a rare opportunity to join a well-loved Scottish heritage brand at a pivotal stage in its evolution and play a central role in shaping the operational capability required for the next phase of growth.
For a confidential discussion, please contact Michael Dickson or James Dickinson at FWB Executive Search at applications@fwbltd.com.
Operations Director in Arbroath employer: FWB
Mackays is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead the operational evolution of one of Scotland's most cherished food brands. With a strong commitment to employee growth and a collaborative work culture, Mackays fosters an environment where innovation thrives, and your contributions directly impact the company's ambitious growth plans. Located in Arbroath, you will be part of a passionate team dedicated to maintaining the authenticity and quality of our products while embracing modernisation and efficiency.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director in Arbroath
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts and attend events related to operations and manufacturing. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Mackays and its products. Understand their operational challenges and think about how your experience can help them modernise their platform. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets their brand.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you ace your application and connect with the right people. Plus, it’s a great way to show you’re genuinely interested in joining the Mackays team.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director in Arbroath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Operations Director. Highlight your experience in manufacturing and supply chain leadership, and don’t forget to showcase any operational improvements you've led in the past.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about joining Mackays and how your hands-on leadership style can help modernise our operations while maintaining our brand integrity.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When filling out your application, be specific about your achievements in FMCG or similar sectors. We want to see how your fresh thinking and lean manufacturing knowledge can contribute to our growth plans.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at FWB
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Mackays' history and their product range. Understand their manufacturing processes and recent strategic changes. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your experience with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As an Operations Director, your leadership style is crucial. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams through operational improvements and automation. Highlight your hands-on approach and how it has positively impacted previous organisations.
✨Balance Quality and Efficiency
Mackays values quality alongside operational performance. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully balanced these aspects in past roles. Bring examples that demonstrate your ability to maintain brand integrity while driving efficiency.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about Mackays' future growth plans and how they envision the Operations Director contributing to that vision. This shows you're not just interested in the role, but also in the company's direction.
