At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage chocolate production while ensuring quality and efficiency.
- Company: Join a growing chocolate business with a hands-on leadership culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, employee discounts, free food, and on-site parking.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in chocolate production and develop your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in production management and strong people management skills.
We are looking for an experienced and motivated Production Manager / Manufacturing Manager to join our growing chocolate manufacturing operation at Holton Heath. This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for managing the day-to-day production operation and leading a team of approximately 20–30 employees.
Commutable Locations: Holton Heath, Poole, Bournemouth, Wareham, Wimborne, Ferndown, Dorchester, Blandford Forum, Christchurch, Ringwood and the wider Dorset area.
You will ensure that the site consistently delivers high-quality chocolate products safely, efficiently and on time, while developing people and driving continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the day-to-day production operation.
- Manage, motivate, coach and develop a team of 20–30 employees.
- Achieve production plans, targets, quality standards and deadlines.
- Monitor KPIs, productivity and production efficiency.
- Identify and implement continuous-improvement opportunities.
- Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, quality and health & safety.
- Manage staffing, labour and production resources.
- Identify and resolve production issues quickly and effectively.
- Work closely with Quality, Warehouse, NPD and the Site General Manager.
- Ensure company procedures and manufacturing standards are consistently followed.
- Build a culture of teamwork, accountability and continuous improvement.
- Be a visible, hands-on leader who leads from the front.
About You:
We are looking for an experienced production or manufacturing leader from food manufacturing, FMCG, manufacturing or a similar fast-paced environment. You may currently be working as a: Production Manager, Manufacturing Manager, Operations Manager, Production Operations Manager, Manufacturing Operations Manager, Factory Manager, Site Production Manager, Senior Production Manager, Production Lead.
You’ll be:
- An experienced and confident people manager.
- Comfortable managing teams of 20–30+ employees.
- Organised, proactive and commercially aware.
- Passionate about quality, safety and continuous improvement.
- Confident managing production KPIs and solving operational problems.
- A strong communicator who leads by example.
Chocolate, confectionery, food manufacturing or FMCG experience is desirable, but strong manufacturing candidates from other relevant sectors will also be considered.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to join a growing chocolate business where you can have a genuine impact on production. You’ll have the opportunity to develop processes, improve efficiency, build a high-performing team and contribute directly to the continued growth of the business. If you enjoy being hands-on, visible and close to the operation, this is an opportunity to make a real difference.
What’s on Offer?
£45,000+ salary, depending on experience. Employee discount and store discount. Discounted or free food. On-site canteen. Free on-site parking. Opportunity to develop within a growing business. Genuine responsibility and influence.
Production Manager employer: Manucomm Recruitment Ltd
Manucomm Recruitment Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Chippenham, where innovation meets quality in food manufacturing. Employees benefit from a strong focus on professional development, with opportunities to enhance their skills and advance their careers while contributing to a culture that prioritises food safety and compliance. Join us to be part of a team that values your expertise and empowers you to make a meaningful impact in the chilled foods sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Manager
✨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 Manucomm Recruitment Ltd, 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Production Manager
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 Manucomm Recruitment Ltd 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 Manucomm Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Manucomm Recruitment Ltd, 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 Manucomm Recruitment Ltd 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.
