Head of Production - Food Manufacturing

The multi-site Head of Production/Manufacturing Manager will play a key role in driving operational excellence and elevating my client to the next level by focusing on KPIs and continuous improvement goals. Based primarily in Croydon, this position will be crucial in leading both people and processes through a period of growth and beyond.

My client is a leading supplier of food packaging solutions in the UK, dedicated to excellence in manufacturing, quality, and customer satisfaction. We are looking for a dynamic and results-driven Site Manager/Head of Production to enhance operational efficiency and achieve key performance indicators (KPIs) at our manufacturing facility.

The Head of Production will lead and optimize all manufacturing operations, focusing on continuous improvement, efficiency, and meeting key KPIs in production, quality, safety, and cost. The ideal candidate will have in-depth knowledge of packaging industry processes, along with strong leadership and analytical skills.

• Operational Leadership: Oversee all manufacturing operations, including production, maintenance, quality control, and HR. Develop strategies to optimize processes and improve efficiency. Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards. Lead and mentor a high-performing, continuous improvement-driven team.
• KPI Management: Establish, monitor, and analyze KPIs like OEE, production efficiency, waste reduction, and on-time delivery. Implement action plans to address KPI deviations and drive improvements. Utilize data-driven decision-making to achieve operational excellence. Present KPI reports to senior management.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive Lean and Six Sigma initiatives to eliminate waste and improve efficiency. Lead improvement projects, including root cause analysis and process optimization. Identify and implement best practices to boost productivity and reduce costs.
• Resource Management: Optimize personnel, equipment, and materials allocation. Develop production schedules to meet demand and manage inventory levels. Ensure effective cross-department communication, including with supply chain and sales.
• Safety and Compliance: Enforce safety regulations and protocols across operations. Implement and ensure adherence to safety procedures.

Profile: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field (Master's preferred). 3-7+ years in manufacturing management, ideally within the food, beverage or packaging industry. Proven success in exceeding KPIs in high-performance environments. Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies. Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Proficient with manufacturing software, data analysis tools, and ERP/MRP systems. Deep understanding of packaging manufacturing processes. Preferred: Six Sigma Black Belt certification.

Job Offer: Competitive compensation package. 25 days holiday plus bank holidays. Company car provided. Opportunity to grow with a rapidly expanding business. Ongoing professional development and career growth. Supportive and collaborative company culture.