Production Manager

Our client, a successful and growing food manufacturer 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 meat manufacturing experience and exposure to New Product Development (NPD) to join a fast-paced, ambitious business.

The Role

Reporting to the Operations Manager, you will oversee daily production activities, ensuring the efficient manufacture of high-quality burger products while maintaining excellent standards of food safety, quality and operational performance. Working closely with Operations, Technical, Engineering, Planning, Quality and NPD teams, you will help drive continuous improvement and successful product launches. This is a full-time, site-based role offering strong career development opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily production operations to achieve output, quality and cost targets.
• Lead, coach and develop production teams to deliver high performance.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, hygiene and health & safety standards, including BRCGS and HACCP.
• Support NPD activities, including factory trials, product launches and process validation.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, waste reduction and OEE.
• Monitor and report key production KPIs, including efficiency, waste, yield and quality.
• Investigate production issues and implement corrective actions.
• Manage labour planning, shift performance and resource allocation.
• Maintain accurate production records and traceability.
• Support internal, customer and third-party audits.
• Promote best practice, operational excellence and employee engagement.

 About You

• Minimum 5 years' experience in a Production Manager or senior supervisory role within meat manufacturing.
• Proven experience managing high-volume food production environments.
• Experience supporting NPD projects, factory trials and product launches.
• Strong knowledge of meat processing, food safety legislation, BRCGS and HACCP.
• Demonstrable leadership experience with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
• Strong analytical, organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Experience using production KPIs to improve performance and efficiency.
• Competent with Microsoft Office and manufacturing reporting systems.
• Relevant qualifications in Food Manufacturing, Food Science, Engineering or Operations Management are advantageous.
• Food Safety Level 3, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma or Continuous Improvement qualifications would be beneficial.
• Excellent communication skills and a proactive, results-driven approach.
• Ability to commute daily to the Harlow area.

 Ref Code: W013308

To apply, please send your CV in strict confidence, quoting the reference above for the attention of Jon Hemming-Nash and include your current salary details.

Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not received a response within one week, your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.