At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major projects in a dynamic pet food manufacturing environment across Europe.
- Company: Join a leading pet food business with a strong focus on innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Regular travel required; excellent career growth potential in a fast-paced industry.
- Why this job: Shape the future of food manufacturing while working closely with top executives.
- Qualifications: Strong background in manufacturing and proven project management experience.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
QLM is partnered with a leading pet food business to identify their Project Director to lead all major projects across their European manufacturing network.
This is a senior leadership role working directly with the CEO and UK Executive Team to lead major projects and business-critical initiatives across a European pet food manufacturing network.
We are looking for an experienced Project Director with a strong manufacturing background and genuine site-level credibility.
The role combines planned strategic projects with reactive operational delivery.
Therefore, the successful candidate must be comfortable moving from strategy and business case development into hands-on execution.
They will work closely with Site Directors and functional leaders, ensuring projects and operational priorities are delivered rather than simply recommended.
Regular travel across UK and European sites will be required.
The candidate will have developed their career through Manufacturing, Operations or Supply Chain, giving them the operational knowledge and credibility to work effectively within live manufacturing sites.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead major manufacturing projects and business-critical initiatives across a multi-site European network.
- Take ownership of urgent operational or site-based issues, quickly establishing the root cause, required actions and route to resolution.
- Translate strategic priorities and business cases into practical delivery plans and measurable outcomes.
- Lead projects from initial concept through to execution, commissioning, operational handover and benefit delivery.
- Work directly with Site Directors, Operations, Engineering, Technical, Supply Chain, Commercial and Finance to resolve cross-functional challenges.
- Lead CAPEX, capacity, automation, site improvement, operational recovery and network change projects.
- Step into projects that are off-track, establish what needs to change and drive recovery through to completion.
- Maintain clear control of project costs, risks, resources, timescales and delivery.
- Provide the CEO and Executive Team with clear, factual reporting on progress, risks and areas requiring decisions.
- Support site or business integration following acquisitions and wider organisational change.
- Ensure projects deliver measurable improvements in cost, capacity, service, efficiency or manufacturing performance.
- Candidate Profile
- Strong knowledge of food manufacturing and factory operations.
- Experience delivering major manufacturing and operational improvement projects.
- Experience stepping into operational challenges or underperforming projects and driving them through to resolution.
- The ability to quickly understand complex problems, establish priorities and mobilise the right people around a solution.
- Experience working directly with Site Directors and senior operational leadership.
- Experience of acquisition integration, site consolidation or network transformation would be advantageous.
Project Director – Food Manufacturing in Loughborough employer: QLM Search
QLM Search offers an exceptional work environment for the Global Commercial Growth Leader, characterised by a dynamic and consumer-focused culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration. Employees benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, competitive compensation packages, and the chance to make a significant impact within a major branded food group. Located in a vibrant industry hub, this role provides unique advantages for networking and career advancement in the food and beverage sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Director – Food Manufacturing in Loughborough
✨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 QLM Search, 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 Project Director – Food Manufacturing in Loughborough
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 QLM Search 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 QLM Search
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with QLM Search, 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 QLM Search 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.
