At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations and train the production team in a dynamic bakery environment.
- Company: Join an innovative food manufacturer known for top-quality bakery products.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours and opportunities for personal development.
- Other info: Apply with your CV and salary details; high response volume expected.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing team that values safety, quality, and teamwork.
- Qualifications: Supervisory experience and strong communication skills are essential; training provided.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 40000 £ per year.
Our client, a leading and highly respected craft bakery supplying premium foodservice, retail, and private label customers, is seeking an experienced and hands-on Assistant Production Manager to support the leadership of their Bread production department. This is a pivotal role within a fast-paced, 24/7 manufacturing environment, offering the opportunity to combine artisan expertise with operational excellence at scale. Job Role Reporting to the Head Baker, the Assistant Production Manager will act as the number two within the Bread production function, supporting day-to-day operations, team leadership, and new product development. You will play a key role in balancing traditional artisan bread-making techniques with efficient, high-volume production, ensuring consistent quality, productivity, and cost control. Working closely with Sales, Technical, and Operations teams, you will help drive production planning, continuous improvement, and a structured Sales & Operations cycle, while embedding best practice across the department. Responsibilities * · Support the leadership and development of a large Bread production team within a 24/7 operation. * · Drive operational excellence, productivity improvements, and tight cost control across the department. * · Coach, develop, and motivate team members, embedding clear operational protocols and standards. * · Manage shift planning, rota scheduling, and workforce organisation. * · Lead and support new product development across foodservice, branded retail, and private label channels. * · Work collaboratively with Sales, Technical, and senior leadership on structured production planning cycles. * · Maintain rigorous food safety, traceability, and quality standards in line with company policy. * · Monitor productivity metrics and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements. * · Contribute to departmental budget planning, headcount management, and performance monitoring. * · Represent the business where required with key customers, suppliers, and stakeholders. * · Ensure adherence to health and safety standards and company procedures at all times. * · Support wider business initiatives and undertake additional responsibilities as required. Personal Profile * · Proven experience within artisan or craft wholesale bakery production. * · Strong track record of leadership within a food manufacturing environment. * · Demonstrable experience delivering productivity gains and managing cost controls. * · Experience of structured operational processes and high standards of food safety and traceability. * · Hands-on leadership style with the ability to lead from the front in a busy production setting. * · Strong coaching and team development capability. * · Experience of gluten-free production would be advantageous. * · Organised, resilient, and energetic with a strong work ethic. * · Comfortable working cross-functionally with Sales, Technical, and senior stakeholders. * · High integrity with strict adherence to health & safety and company procedures. Hours 6 Days Per Week (24/7 Operation) – Ideal start time 10am, but will require flexibility
Assistant Production Manager employer: The People Co
Contact Detail:
The People Co Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Production Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific health and safety regulations in the food manufacturing industry. Being able to discuss these confidently during your interview will show that you understand the importance of safety in production.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have in managing teams, especially in high-pressure environments. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led a team or resolved conflicts, as this is crucial for the Assistant Production Manager role.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your knowledge of KPIs relevant to production management. Being able to articulate how you’ve used KPIs to drive performance improvements in past roles can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to training and developing staff. Since this role involves overseeing recruitment and training, having a clear strategy for how you would implement effective training programmes will demonstrate your leadership capabilities.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Production Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in production management and supervisory roles. Emphasise your skills in people management, communication, and any specific achievements related to operational KPIs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities of the Assistant Production Manager role. Mention your understanding of health and safety standards, food quality, and your ability to lead and train a team effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your previous managerial experience in similar industries. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed production operations and resolved issues in a fast-paced environment.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you include all requested information, such as salary details and the reference code. Double-check your email for accuracy before sending it to Lesa Lynch to avoid any delays in processing your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at The People Co
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Assistant Production Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and develop a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on training and motivating staff.
✨Understand Health & Safety Regulations
Familiarise yourself with health and safety standards relevant to food production. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance in your previous roles and how you would implement these practices in the new position.
✨Communicate Clearly About KPIs
Since the role involves understanding and communicating KPIs, prepare to discuss specific metrics you've worked with before. Be ready to explain how you have used data to improve production processes.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Production environments can be stressful and unpredictable. Think of examples where you've resolved issues quickly and effectively, showcasing your ability to think on your feet and manage challenges.