Production and Operations Manager in Lisburn

Your new company Hays are delighted to be partnering with a growing, independently owned Irish whiskey producer to recruit a hands-on Production & Operations Manager. This is a senior leadership opportunity for an experienced manufacturing professional to take full ownership of production, warehousing, logistics and operational performance across the entire post-distillation process. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will play a pivotal role in driving operational excellence, enhancing productivity, developing high-performing teams and ensuring the delivery of premium products to customers worldwide. This role offers the opportunity to make a genuine impact within a fast-growing business with ambitious expansion plans and an increasing international footprint. Your new role As Production & Operations Manager, you will be responsible for leading all aspects of production operations from liquid preparation and bottling through to packaging, warehousing and dispatch. You will drive improvements across operational efficiency, equipment performance, quality standards, cost control and team development while fostering a culture of accountability, safety and continuous improvement. Key areas of responsibility include: Production & Operational Management Lead daily production operations across bottling, packaging, warehousing and dispatch. Develop production schedules aligned with customer demand and business requirements. Monitor and improve production output, labour utilisation and equipment performance. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, increase efficiency and improve profitability. Establish and manage KPIs including OEE, productivity, quality, waste and cost performance. Bottling & Packaging Operations Oversee liquid preparation, blending, filtration and bottling activities. Optimise bottling line performance, changeovers and equipment utilisation. Ensure product traceability, stock accuracy and compliance with production specifications. Drive improvements in throughput, quality and operational reliability. Leadership & People Management Lead, coach and develop a multi-disciplinary production team. Create a high-performance culture focused on accountability, engagement and continuous improvement. Manage workforce planning, training and performance management activities. Provide strong visible leadership through a hands-on approach. Warehouse, Inventory & Logistics Oversee raw materials, packaging stock and finished goods inventory. Ensure robust stock control and inventory reconciliation processes. Manage dispatch operations and support efficient customer order fulfilment. Work with suppliers and logistics providers to optimise service levels and costs. Maintenance, Compliance & Quality Ensure effective preventative maintenance programmes are in place. Manage equipment reliability and minimise operational downtime. Maintain compliance with health & safety, food safety and regulatory standards. Support internal and external audits and ensure accurate operational records are maintained What you'll need to succeed We are keen to speak with experienced Production, Operations or Manufacturing Managers who can demonstrate success within FMCG, food manufacturing, beverage, packaging or other fast-paced manufacturing environments. You'll possess: Proven experience leading production or operations teams within a manufacturing environment. Strong track record of improving efficiency, productivity, quality and cost performance. Experience managing KPIs, continuous improvement projects and operational performance. Excellent leadership and people development skills. Knowledge of production planning, warehouse management and inventory control. Strong commercial awareness and problem-solving ability. A hands-on management style with the ability to influence and drive results. Desirable Experience within beverage, bottling, food or packaging manufacturing. Knowledge of bonded goods, excise-controlled products or HMRC compliance requirements. Experience with ERP or inventory management systems. Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, OEE or Continuous Improvement experience. Exposure to export logistics and international distribution. What you'll get in return What's on Offer?Competitive salary package. Relocation assistance where required. Company pension scheme. Significant autonomy and responsibility within a growing business. The opportunity to shape operational strategy and lead meaningful change. Career-defining position within an ambitious and expanding Irish whiskey producer. What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. 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