Production Manager in Harlow

Our client, a well-established and growing food manufacturing business based in Essex, is seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead its manufacturing operation. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on production professional with extensive meat manufacturing experience and exposure to New Product Development (NPD), looking to play a key role within a fast-paced and ambitious manufacturing environment.

Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Production Manager will take responsibility for the day-to-day management of production operations, ensuring the efficient manufacture of high-quality burger products while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, quality, and operational performance. Working closely with the Operations, Technical, Engineering, Planning, Quality and NPD teams, you will support continuous improvement initiatives, successful product launches, and the achievement of production targets. This is a full-time, site-based role offering excellent career development opportunities within a progressive and expanding food manufacturing business.

Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operation of meat production lines to achieve production plans safely, efficiently and cost-effectively.
• Lead, coach and develop production teams to deliver high levels of performance, engagement and accountability.
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, quality, hygiene and health & safety standards, including BRCGS, HACCP, customer specifications and company procedures.
• Work closely with Operations, NPD, Technical, Engineering, Planning and Quality teams to introduce new products successfully into production.
• Support factory trials, first production runs and process validation to ensure the smooth launch of new products.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase productivity, reduce waste, improve yields and maximise Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
• Monitor and report production KPIs including labour efficiency, output, downtime, waste, yield, quality performance and customer service levels.
• Investigate production issues, identify root causes and implement effective corrective and preventative actions.
• Ensure production schedules are achieved while maintaining product quality and customer service standards.
• Manage labour planning, shift performance and resource allocation to optimise operational efficiency.
• Maintain accurate production records and ensure full product traceability.
• Support internal, customer and third-party audits, ensuring corrective actions are completed effectively.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and promote best practice across the production department.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, operational excellence and employee engagement.

Personal Profile

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a Production Manager or Senior Production Supervisor role within the meat manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience managing high-volume food manufacturing operations.
• Demonstrable experience supporting New Product Development (NPD), including factory trials and successful product launches.
• Strong understanding of meat manufacturing processes including mixing, forming, cooking, chilling/freezing, packing and dispatch.
• Excellent knowledge of BRCGS, HACCP, food safety legislation and retailer standards.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop production teams within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Experience monitoring production KPIs and driving improvements in efficiency, waste reduction, quality and labour utilisation.
• Strong organisational, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Competent user of Microsoft Office and manufacturing reporting systems.
• Qualification in Food Manufacturing, Food Science, Engineering, Operations Management or a related discipline would be advantageous.
• Food Safety Level 3, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma or Continuous Improvement qualifications would be beneficial.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a proactive, results-driven approach.
• High attention to detail and the ability to perform effectively under pressure.
• Candidates should be able to commute to the Harlow area on a daily basis.

To apply, please send your comprehensive CV in strict confidence, quoting the reference above and for the attention of Jon Hemming-Nash. Please include your current salary details within your application. Due to high response levels, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not received a response within one week, regrettably your application has not been successful on this occasion.