About the Role
The Production Group Leader will lead a cross-functional team to deliver the goals of the Production Stream, ensuring strong performance across safety, quality, people, cost and operational efficiency. They will develop a high-performing team, drive continuous improvement and work collaboratively across functions to improve processes, solve problems and deliver against production targets. This role is working days, Monday-Friday.
What will I be doing?
- Lead, develop and engage a high-performing Production Stream team, including performance management, talent development, succession planning, training and employee relations.
- Develop and deliver the Production Stream strategy, ensuring key activities and objectives are achieved on time and within budget.
- Manage and improve manufacturing conversion performance and costs, driving standardisation and operational efficiency across the Production Stream.
- Lead continuous improvement through structured problem-solving methodologies, including 8 Step Practical Problem Solving, while coaching teams to embed sustainable improvements.
- Plan and optimise labour and resources in line with production requirements, ensuring appropriate skills, flexibility and coverage.
- Monitor and improve OEE and process reliability, identifying bottlenecks, performance gaps and opportunities through analysis of key operational data.
- Maintain high standards across quality, GMP, Health & Safety and environmental compliance, ensuring risks and operational issues are effectively managed and escalated where required.
- Support and deliver key operational and improvement projects, working cross-functionally on initiatives including capital investment, NPD and wider Production Stream projects.
What do I need to be successful?
At Kinisla, we understand that people have very different career trajectories and experiences. In order to be successful in this role we would be looking for the right competencies and aptitudes as well as your proven track record of success in a similar role and environment.
These include:
- Proven experience leading and developing multifunctional teams within a fast-paced manufacturing or process environment.
- Strong written, verbal and numerical skills, with good analytical and problem-solving capability.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement tools.
- Ability to use structured problem-solving techniques, including 8 Step Practical Problem Solving, and experience standardising processes.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and align Production Stream strategy with wider site and business objectives, across both short and medium-term priorities.
- Strong track record of leading cross-functional teams to deliver operational and business objectives.
- Effective leader and communicator with strong coaching, influencing and relationship-building skills, and the ability to develop high-performing teams.
- Proactive, flexible and improvement-focused, with the ability to challenge the status quo, adapt to change and deliver to deadlines, alongside proficiency in Microsoft Office.
What will I get in return?
At Kinisla, we believe in giving talented, curious people the opportunity to make a difference. We work as a team, searching for ways to inspire and lead the evolution of dairy, food and nutrition. We are a community of innovators, working across disciplines to solve global food challenges with a fresh approach. We want you to achieve whatever you put your mind to.
We also offer:
- 25 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays)
- Matched pension scheme
- Benefits platform offering discounts and cashback on major retailers.
About Kinisla
Kinisla is a vertically integrated farm-to-fork business with a very substantial consumer foods presence and a leading nutritional and dairy ingredients division, delivering high-quality dairy solutions with a focus on sustainability and innovation. From partnering with local family farms to producing world-class dairy products, we ensure every step of our value chain reflects our commitment to excellence.
With over 50 years’ experience in milk processing, dairy and nutritional technology advancement, and product innovation, we are a key stakeholder in the global food industry and creators of a strong portfolio of market leading dairy brands including Cheestrings, Charleville and Coleraine Cheese, Dairygold, Golden Cow and our new SMUG range. Our from food, for food culture and deep-rooted connection to our 2,800 milk suppliers differentiates our business and offers captivating opportunities for our customers and consumers.
Our dairy comes from some of the world’s richest grazing land and is produced by a network of Irish family farms that have one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world. Through a combination of expertise, innovation, and sustainability, Kinisla is proud to shape the future of dairy while meeting the diverse needs of our farmers, customers, and communities.
Headquartered in Tralee, Co. Kerry, we operate multiple manufacturing facilities in the southwest of Ireland, including Listowel, Charleville, Newmarket, and Farranfore. Additionally, we manage 29 Farm & Home stores throughout the region, ensuring comprehensive coverage and service. In Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom, our presence extends to key locations in Portadown, Coleraine, and Ossett.
Globally, Kinisla employs over 1,700 dedicated professionals across Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK, USA, Netherlands, Spain, Germany, and China. In 2024, we achieved a turnover of approximately €1.3 billion, reflecting our commitment to excellence and growth.
Our recruitment, selection and assessment process are based on the skills and competencies of the specific roles and based entirely on merit. We are committed to and value Diversity and Inclusion in all recruitment processes within Kinisla and do not discriminate based on gender, race, class, economic status, ethnic background, sexual orientation, age, political beliefs, veteran status, marital status or any other protected characteristic.
Please note: We do not accept CVs or candidate profiles from recruitment agencies where Kinisla terms of business have not been signed. Additionally, we will not consider or agree to payment of any recruiter fee under these circumstances. This also applies to CVs or candidate profiles sent directly to any Kinisla Hiring Managers.
Production Group Leader (Days) in Coleraine employer: Kinisla Group
Kinisla is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, where talented individuals can thrive and make a meaningful impact in the dairy industry. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer comprehensive benefits including 25 days of annual leave, a matched pension scheme, and a supportive environment that encourages creativity and teamwork. Located in Tralee, Co. Kerry, our headquarters provide a unique opportunity to be part of a community dedicated to sustainability and excellence, while working with some of the UK's largest retail customers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Group Leader (Days) in Coleraine
✨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 Kinisla Group, 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!
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 Kinisla Group 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 Kinisla Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Kinisla Group, 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 Kinisla Group 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.
