At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate daily manufacturing operations to achieve production targets safely and efficiently.
- Company: Join a leading food manufacturing business with a focus on operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, strong career development, and opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team that values innovation and quality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-performing environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in a senior manufacturing role, strong leadership, and problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Production Manager to join a leading food manufacturing business. This is a key leadership role responsible for driving performance across night shift operations, ensuring production targets are achieved safely, efficiently, and in line with the highest quality and food safety standards. You will oversee both low-risk and high-risk manufacturing areas, playing a pivotal role in delivering operational excellence, continuous improvement, and team development.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and coordinate daily manufacturing operations to ensure on-time, in-full (OTIF) delivery
- Drive production performance through effective management of OEE, labour utilisation, and efficiency
- Champion Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives across the site
- Monitor yields and control costs by reducing waste across materials, packaging and labour
- Ensure full compliance with food safety, quality and hygiene standards
- Maintain strict segregation between high-risk and low-risk areas to protect product integrity
- Keep the site audit‑ready for customer, regulatory, and third‑party inspections
- Lead, coach, and develop Production Supervisors and Line Leaders
- Support workforce planning, training, succession, and performance management
- Collaborate with Technical, Engineering, Planning, Supply Chain, HR and H&S teams to deliver business objectives
About You
- 3‑5 years' experience in a Production Manager or senior manufacturing leadership role within food manufacturing
- Proven experience in high-risk or high-care environments
- Strong leadership capability with experience managing and motivating large teams
- Demonstrated success in delivering KPI's such as OEE, waste reduction, and productivity improvements
- Strong problem‑solving and root cause analysis skills
- Commercially aware with experience managing costs, yields and budgets
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
Essential requirement
- Food Safety Level 3
- HACCP Level 3
Desirable Qualifications
- Leadership/Management qualification (ILM Level 5 or equivalent)
- IOSH or NEBOSH certification
- Lean Manufacturing qualification or practical experience
Why Join?
- Opportunity to lead within a high‑performing food manufacturing environment
- Be part of a business that values continuous improvement and operational excellence
- Strong career development and progression opportunities
Apply Now or contact 01782 712230. Please note that due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those shortlisted will be personally contacted.
Production Manager employer: KPI Recruiting Ltd
Join a leading food manufacturing business in Newcastle-under-Lyme, where you will thrive in a dynamic and supportive work culture that prioritises continuous improvement and operational excellence. As a Production Manager, you will have the opportunity to lead a high-performing team, drive significant production efficiencies, and benefit from strong career development pathways in a sector that values your expertise and contributions.
