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- Tasks: Lead daily operations in a fast-paced food and beverage manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a rapidly growing, BRCGS accredited contract manufacturer.
- Benefits: Enjoy autonomy, competitive salary, and the chance to shape operational success.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving production efficiency and compliance.
- Qualifications: Experience in FMCG or regulated manufacturing with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on growth and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Hampshire, United Kingdom
Reports to: Chief Commercial and Operating Officer
Full-Time | Permanent
Are you a strategic, hands-on leader with proven leadership experience in the Food & Beverage manufacturing sector? My client is a fast-growing, BRCGS accredited contract manufacturer. As we enter a significant growth phase, we are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to take full ownership of daily site performance, compliance integrity, and manufacturing execution.
Responsible for production across a wide range of clients and pack formats and for operational compliance, this leadership role reports to the Chief Commercial and Operating Officer (CCOO), who retains responsibility for commercial strategy, operating model design, and long-term growth planning.
Job Role:
You will be accountable for running our regulated manufacturing operation to the highest standards of safety, quality and compliance. You will lead multi-functional operational teams and ensure that production targets are delivered efficiently, consistently and compliantly. This is a leadership position in a dynamic, client-focused environment where you'll oversee multiple production areas, drive continuous improvement, and play a pivotal role in delivering on-time, on-spec orders that protect and enhance our clients' brands and our reputation as a first-choice contract production partner.
Key Responsibilities:
- Full accountability for daily production performance and OTIF delivery
- Ensure BRCGS compliance and maintain audit readiness year round
- Drive robust HACCP and food safety culture
- Ensure accurate operational reporting including OEE, labour, yield and compliance metrics
- Line manage and performance-lead key department heads, including Production Supervisors, Blending Manager, Canning Hall Manager ensuring high standards across all areas.
- Oversee recruitment, training, and scheduling (including agency labour) to build and maintain a skilled, high-performing workforce
- Work closely with Engineering to schedule maintenance and minimise downtime
- Deliver labour efficiency and cost control targets
- Enforce disciplined ERP/MRP system usage and daily / weekly / monthly reporting
- Develop site capacity and operational scalability
Experience Required:
- Operations leadership experience in FMCG, beverage or regulated manufacturing
- Proven track record leading BRCGS or equivalent audits
- Strong operational reporting and data-driven performance management
- Experience managing engineering and maintenance functions
- Demonstrable ability to lead multi-layer operational teams
- Commercial awareness and understanding of manufacturing cost drivers
- Experience implementing or operating ERP/MRP systems
Why Join Us?
This role offers the opportunity to lead a growing manufacturing platform with significant responsibility and autonomy. You will play a central role in ensuring that the company's operational foundation supports its next phase of growth. If you're ready to lead production at the heart of a dynamic business, we’d love to hear from you!
Operations Manager in Hampshire employer: New Chapter Consulting
Contact Detail:
New Chapter Consulting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Hampshire
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Operations Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their values, recent projects, and challenges in the Food & Beverage sector. We want you to impress them with your knowledge and passion!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've driven compliance and performance in previous roles. We believe that demonstrating your hands-on experience will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. We’re excited to see how you can contribute to our growth and success!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Hampshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in the Food & Beverage manufacturing sector and any relevant leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of your achievements in operational management and compliance that demonstrate your strategic thinking.
Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge: Since compliance is key in our industry, make sure to highlight your experience with BRCGS standards and any audits you've led. We’re looking for someone who can ensure our operations meet the highest safety and quality standards.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at New Chapter Consulting
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Food & Beverage manufacturing sector. Understand the key compliance standards like BRCGS and HACCP, as well as the specific challenges faced in this industry. This will show that you're not just a leader, but a knowledgeable one.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led multi-functional teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you drove performance improvements or managed compliance effectively. This will help demonstrate your hands-on leadership style and ability to motivate others.
✨Be Data-Driven
Familiarise yourself with operational reporting metrics such as OEE, labour efficiency, and yield. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to make informed decisions in previous roles. This will highlight your analytical skills and understanding of performance management.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's growth plans and operational challenges. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company aligns with your career goals. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.