Area Operations Manager

Silven Recruitment; Wales; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm seeks an experienced Area Operations Manager in Wrexham to lead operational teams in a fast-paced dairy processing environment. Responsibilities include ensuring production efficiency, compliance with food safety standards, and fostering a high-performance culture. The ideal candidate has proven experience in food manufacturing management and excellent leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Operations or Production Management within food manufacturing, preferably dairy.
• Strong leadership skills to influence and motivate teams.
• Understanding of food safety, hygiene, and GMP standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop multi-disciplinary operational teams.
• Drive performance across safety and manufacturing efficiency.
• Implement Continuous Improvement and Lean practices.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Food Safety Standards

Continuous Improvement

Operational Excellence

Job description

Area Operations Manager (Food Manufacturing)

Location: Wrexham
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Up to £45k DOE
Shift Pattern: Monday-Friday, 9-5

Opportunity

This is a key site leadership role, responsible for driving operational delivery, people performance, safety, and production efficiency across specific manufacturing areas within a fast‑paced dairy processing environment. You'll lead teams to deliver high standards in quality, safety, and output, while fostering a high‑performance culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and develop multi‑disciplinary operational teams.
• Drive performance across safety, manufacturing efficiency, waste reduction, and product quality.
• Ensure daily production schedules are achieved on time and to specification.
• Collaborate closely with Technical, Engineering, Supply Chain, and NPD teams.
• Implement and sustain Continuous Improvement and Lean practices.
• Develop competency, training, and succession planning across the area.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety standards.
• Champion operational excellence through data, coaching, and team engagement.

About You

• Proven experience in Operations or Production Management within food manufacturing (dairy strongly preferred).
• Strong leadership with the ability to influence, coach, and motivate teams.
• Sound understanding of food safety, hygiene, and GMP.
• Excellent communication skills and a proactive, hands‑on management style.
• Able to deliver measurable results through people and process improvements.
• Experience with Continuous Improvement, Lean, or similar methodologies.