At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate daily manufacturing operations to achieve production targets safely and efficiently.
- Company: Join a leading food manufacturing business focused on operational excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £40,000, strong career development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for growth in a dynamic food manufacturing environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-performing team and drive continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years in a senior manufacturing role, strong leadership skills, and food safety certifications.
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 (phone number removed). Please note that due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those shortlisted will be personally contacted.
Production Manager in Newcastle under Lyme employer: KPI Recruiting
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 access to strong career development opportunities, allowing you to grow your leadership skills while making a meaningful impact on production performance and team success. Enjoy the benefits of working in a high-performing environment that values safety, quality, and employee engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Manager in Newcastle under Lyme
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like KPI Recruiting.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from KPI Recruiting!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like KPI Recruiting, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at KPI Recruiting, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Production Manager in Newcastle under Lyme
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at KPI Recruiting, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at KPI Recruiting.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to KPI Recruiting. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at KPI Recruiting. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at KPI Recruiting
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to KPI Recruiting’s mission.
