At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead production operations in a fast-paced, automated FMCG environment.
- Company: Join Refresco, the world's largest independent beverage solutions provider.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual bonus, enhanced pension, and 28+ days of leave.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career growth and a supportive company culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving performance and leading continuous improvement initiatives.
- Qualifications: Experience in FMCG manufacturing and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join Refresco, the world’s largest independent beverage solutions provider, in a pivotal leadership role at the Bridgwater site. As Production Manager, you will take ownership of production operations within a fast-paced, highly automated FMCG environment, driving performance across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost and People.
Working closely with the Factory Manager, you will play a key role in delivering site strategy, optimising operational performance and leading continuous improvement initiatives that directly impact business results.
Reward & Benefits
- Annual bonus and regular pay reviews
- An enhanced company pension contribution
- 28 days of annual leave plus bank holidays
- Option to purchase additional leave, increasing your allowance to 31 days plus bank holidays
- Life assurance coverage
- Personal healthcare cover, including 24/7 virtual GP access for your family
- Free eye‑care vouchers and discounted glasses
- Employee referral scheme with bonuses for successful referrals
- GroceryAid support services offering financial, legal, wellbeing and practical guidance
- Cheers benefits platform providing discounts, free perks, and wellbeing tools
- Free onsite parking and discounted products
About the Role
Reporting to the Factory Manager, you will have a key role working with the factory management team, with the specific remit around operational KPI’s customer service, Health and Safety and Quality standards. Managing a team of Shift Managers you will ensure we deliver operational excellence across your factory production halls. The delivery will come through the application of continuous improvement techniques, employee engagement and living the company values ensuring you’re an exemplary leader at all times.
Key Areas of Focus
- Lead all production operations, building strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders to deliver site objectives.
- Manage labour and material budgets, ensuring staffing levels are aligned to demand while controlling costs and maximising efficiency.
- Drive operational performance through OEE optimisation, KPI (SQDCP) management, continuous improvement initiatives, and value-added action plans.
- Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety, Quality Management Systems (QMS), SOPs, and audit requirements, maintaining audit readiness at all times.
- Develop, motivate, and performance-manage teams through effective communication, training, appraisals, succession planning, and engagement initiatives.
- Lead cross‑functional collaboration and site projects, providing operational leadership and cover for key management roles, including the Factory Manager when required.
Required Experience and Skills
The ideal candidate will have proven experience in a fast‑paced FMCG manufacturing environment, preferably within a highly automated production facility, with a strong background in supervisory or production management roles. They will demonstrate a successful track record of leading, developing and motivating teams, driving a culture of safety, quality, performance and continuous improvement. A confident and engaging leader, they will be capable of translating business strategy into operational delivery, using KPIs to drive productivity, efficiency and OEE improvements while effectively managing resources and costs. Strong communication, problem‑solving and stakeholder management skills are essential, alongside the ability to work collaboratively across functions to achieve site objectives and deliver sustainable business results.
Find out more about the Refresco Values here: Refresco Values
Equal Opportunity Statement
Refresco believes that equal opportunity for all is fundamental to our company's values and all our applicants can expect fairness and transparency in our recruitment process.
Production Manager in Bridgwater employer: Worklane GmbH
At Octopus, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in our brand-new Weybridge office. With an uncapped commission scheme, generous car allowance, and a commitment to personal growth, we empower our Sales Executives to thrive in a dynamic environment focused on sustainability and customer satisfaction. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that values inclusivity and innovation, ensuring every employee feels valued and supported.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Manager in Bridgwater
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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✨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!
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Worklane GmbH, 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!
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 Worklane GmbH 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 Worklane GmbH
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Worklane GmbH, 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 Worklane GmbH 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.
