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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily production, manage orders, and improve processes in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join a leading food manufacturing business in Telford, expanding with new production lines.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary starting at £50,000, with potential increases after probation.
- Why this job: Be part of a culture that values creativity, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Experience in food manufacturing or similar roles, strong leadership, and problem-solving skills required.
- Other info: Work Monday to Friday, 39.5 hours per week, with a focus on quality and efficiency.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 52000 £ per year.
Overview
Production Lead – Food Manufacturing
Location: Telford
Salary: £50,000 – £52,750 per annum (depending on skills and experience)
Shift Pattern: 39.5 hours per week | Mon–Thurs 8:30am–5:00pm, Fri 8:30am–4:30pm
Are you a proactive leader who thrives in a fast-paced, high‑pressure manufacturing environment, and do you have previous experience in the Food Manufacturing / Food Packaging / FMCG sector?
We’re looking for a Production Lead to join our dynamic team, driving performance, problem‑solving challenges, and supporting continuous improvement across our automated production lines.
The hiring manager would prefer someone who has previous experience within the food manufacturing sector, and we are looking for someone who lives within a 25-mile radius of Telford (Shropshire).
This will be a 2-stage interview process, with the first stage consisting of a numeracy and literacy assessment on site in Telford, Shropshire.
This job would be a great fit for someone who has previously worked as a Production Manager, Shift Manager, Senior Production Manager, Production Operations Manager or Manufacturing Manager within the Food Manufacturing Industry.
What You’ll Do
- Oversee daily production plans to ensure all resources, materials, and equipment are in place.
- Develop strategies to manage order flow and resolve issues quickly and effectively.
- Analyse short‑term performance data (24–72 hours) to drive improvements.
- Troubleshoot ongoing production challenges and escalate where needed.
- Monitor product quality and line efficiency, implementing targeted improvements.
- Chair development meetings, support product trials, and manage line changeovers.
- Oversee planned equipment maintenance and ensure machinery is operating optimally.
- Support operator performance, offering coaching, training, and development.
- Write and update SOPs, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.
- Provide technical assistance during major breakdowns.
- Plan and oversee effective cleaning processes for product quality and hygiene.
What We’re Looking for in a Production Lead
- Previous experience within the food manufacturing / packaging industry.
- Experience in a high‑pressure, fast-moving manufacturing environment.
- Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to develop logical, effective solutions.
- Proven leadership skills and a passion for developing teams.
- Excellent organisation, time‑management, and multi‑tasking abilities.
- A collaborative mindset and commitment to continuous improvement.
- Knowledge of food safety standards (HACCP, GMP) — desirable but not essential.
Job Location
This exciting opportunity is based in Telford (Shropshire).
If you are a Production Manager, Shift Manager, Senior Production Manager, Production Operations Manager or Manufacturing Manager with previous Food Manufacturing Industry experience and you are seeking a new job, then this could be the right role for you!!
Apply Now – Take the next step in your manufacturing leadership career!
Your CV will be forwarded to Jonathan Lee Recruitment, a leading engineering and manufacturing recruitment consultancy established in 1978. The services advertised by Jonathan Lee Recruitment are those of an Employment Agency.
In order for your CV to be processed effectively, please ensure your name, email address, phone number and location (post code OR town OR county, as a minimum) are included.
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Production Lead employer: Jonathan Lee Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Jonathan Lee Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific food manufacturing processes and technologies used by the company. This knowledge will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the numeracy and literacy assessment by brushing up on basic maths and comprehension skills. Practising sample questions can give you a confidence boost and help you perform better on the day.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership experience by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of the company, if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Production Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in food manufacturing, FMCG, or similar industries. Emphasise any leadership roles and specific achievements that align with the responsibilities of a Production Lead.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the company. Mention your problem-solving skills and how you can contribute to improving production processes and team performance.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills related to food safety practices (like HACCP and GMP), as well as your ability to manage production efficiently. Use specific examples to demonstrate these skills.
Prepare for Assessments: Since the application process includes a numeracy and literacy assessment, brush up on these skills beforehand. Practice relevant exercises to ensure you're ready to showcase your capabilities during the interview.
How to prepare for a job interview at Jonathan Lee Recruitment
✨Brush Up on Industry Knowledge
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the food manufacturing and FMCG sectors. Familiarise yourself with current trends, challenges, and innovations in the industry to demonstrate your passion and knowledge during the interview.
✨Prepare for Assessments
Since the first stage includes numeracy and literacy assessments, practice relevant exercises beforehand. Brush up on basic maths and comprehension skills to ensure you perform well and show your capability for the role.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous leadership roles and how you've developed teams in high-pressure environments. Use specific examples to illustrate your problem-solving skills and ability to manage production effectively.
✨Emphasise Quality and Safety Knowledge
Highlight your understanding of food safety practices like HACCP and GMP. Discuss how you’ve implemented these standards in past roles to ensure product quality and compliance, as this is crucial for the position.
