Production Operations Manager.

Production Operations Manager

Plant Manager Development Opportunity

We are seeking an ambitious and experienced Production Operations Manager to join a large-scale, integrated food manufacturing operation on a permanent basis.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced production leader to broaden their operational experience and take on a significant leadership assignment, with exposure to Plant Manager-level responsibilities.

Initially, you will undertake an 18-month Plant Manager assignment, reporting directly to the Site Manager. Following this assignment, you will transition into a permanent Production/Process Manager role, continuing to drive operational excellence and support business growth.

The Opportunity

During the initial 18-month assignment, you will lead all aspects of plant performance, overseeing production, quality, engineering, safety and people leadership.

You will have the opportunity to influence business performance, develop high-performing teams and implement operational improvements within a complex, high-volume manufacturing environment.

Following the assignment, you will move into a permanent Production/Process Manager position, offering continued opportunities to contribute to site-wide operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction across all aspects of manufacturing operations, promoting a culture of safety, quality and performance.
• Lead, coach and develop department managers and operational teams, fostering accountability, engagement and continuous improvement.
• Oversee manufacturing, quality assurance, engineering, health and safety, materials management and information systems.
• Contribute to strategic planning, annual business plans and operational budget management.
• Ensure products consistently meet customer expectations, quality standards and product specifications.
• Drive key operational KPIs, including throughput, yield, efficiency and service levels.
• Champion environmental, health and safety standards, ensuring compliance with relevant regulatory requirements.
• Embed Lean Manufacturing, Business Excellence and continuous improvement methodologies throughout operations.
• Develop and implement robust quality management processes to enhance customer satisfaction and business performance.
• Monitor and report on plant performance, providing insights and recommendations to senior leadership.
• Build effective working relationships across Operations, Engineering, Quality, Technical, R&D, HR and wider site functions.

What We’re Looking For

• Third-level qualification in Engineering, Science, Food Science or a related discipline.
• At least 5 years’ leadership experience within food manufacturing, FMCG or a comparable operational environment.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams across Operations, Quality, Health & Safety and Environmental programmes.
• Strong track record of delivering operational performance improvements and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
• Solid understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and operational excellence methodologies.
• Experience managing large teams and developing high-performance working cultures.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management and interpersonal skills.
• Strong commercial awareness and a customer-focused approach.
• Excellent planning, organisation and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to manage competing priorities.

The Ideal Candidate

You will be a confident and collaborative leader who

• Leads with integrity, accountability and respect.
• Creates an inclusive environment where people are supported to perform at their best.
• Enjoys coaching and developing people at all levels.
• Demonstrates resilience, adaptability and a solutions-focused mindset.
• Builds strong relationships and works effectively across multiple functions.
• Embraces continuous improvement and actively challenges existing processes.
• Brings energy, initiative and a strong commitment to delivering results.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• An 18-month Plant Manager-level leadership assignment.
• A structured development pathway into a permanent Production/Process Manager role.
• Exposure to a complex, large-scale food manufacturing environment.
• The opportunity to lead significant operational teams and influence business performance.
• A challenging and rewarding role with scope to develop your leadership and operational expertise.

Apply today to take the next step in your manufacturing leadership career.

For immediate consideration, please contact Danielle at [email protected] or call 051-878813.

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