At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a production team to achieve safety, quality, and performance targets.
- Company: Join Pilgrim's Europe, a top player in the food manufacturing industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Be part of a stable business committed to sustainability and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while growing your leadership skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in people management or supervisory roles; strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Ready to lead with purpose and make a real impact? Join Pilgrim's Europe as an Operations Team Lead at our Craigavon site, and take the next step in your leadership journey with one of the UK's leading food manufacturing companies.
Location: Craigavon
Various Shifts Available: Monday to Friday - Evening Shift - 16:00 - 00:00
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time, Monthly Paid
About the Role
As an Operations Team Lead, you'll be at the heart of our production operations — managing a team of production operatives and ensuring that performance targets across safety, quality, technical, service, and people management are met and exceeded.
What You'll Do:
- Lead and engage your production team to deliver results in a safe, efficient and high-performing environment
- Own and drive key performance metrics: safety, technical compliance, production efficiency, labour utilisation, and customer service
- Proactively manage and improve standards for food safety, quality, and hygiene
- Carry out investigations, audits, and performance reviews to ensure a culture of accountability and excellence
- Collaborate cross-functionally with departments like Technical, Engineering, HR, and Planning
- Champion a positive, inclusive working environment, promoting communication, engagement, and continuous development
- Support and embed Continuous Improvement and Lean principles across your team
What We're Looking For:
Essential:
- Proven people management experience OR experience in a supervisory/leadership role within production
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- Comfortable working with KPIs, quality standards, and technical documentation
- Computer literate with working knowledge of Microsoft Office
- Self-motivated with a hands-on, proactive approach
Desirable:
- Background in FMCG or food manufacturing
- HACCP and Health & Safety qualifications
- Experience leading or supporting continuous improvement initiatives
- Leadership or management qualifications
- GCSE Maths and English (Grade C or above or equivalent)
Why Join Us?
- We believe in rewarding talent, supporting development, and fostering a culture where every voice is heard
- Career development and training opportunities
- Inclusive and supportive culture - a collaborative workplace where your wellbeing and ideas matter
- Be part of a stable, well-established business that's a key player in the food industry
- Innovation at scale - work with continuous improvement tools
- Join a business committed to reducing its environmental impact and building a better sustainable future
- Competitive salary and benefits
- The chance to be part of a business that values safety, integrity, respect, and innovation
Ready to Apply?
If you're ready to lead a team, influence real change, and grow your career in an essential industry, we want to hear from you.
Operations Shift Team Lead in Portadown employer: Pilgrims Europe
At Pilgrim's Europe, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive culture that values every team member's contributions. Located in Craigavon, our Operations Team Lead role provides ample opportunities for career development and training within a stable, well-established food manufacturing company. Join us to be part of a collaborative environment where innovation thrives, and your wellbeing is a priority, all while making a meaningful impact in the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Shift Team Lead in Portadown
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Pilgrims Europe. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Pilgrims Europe
Don't be shy about reaching out to Pilgrims Europe directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Shift Team Lead in Portadown
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Pilgrims Europe and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pilgrims Europe
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
