Assistant Production Manager

Alchemy Global Talent Solutions Ltd.; Croydon; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fresh fruit delivery company in Croydon is looking for a Production Manager to oversee their operations. Responsibilities include leading production lines, ensuring quality control, and managing staff. The ideal candidate should have at least 2 years of experience in food manufacturing and previous leadership experience. This role requires strong attention to detail and a commitment to high standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in fresh produce or food manufacturing.
• 1–2 years’ experience in a supervisory or team leader position.
• Proven leadership ability with a “hands‑on” approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead and optimise production lines for efficiency and quality.
• Oversee daily quality control and staff training.
• Conduct weekly meetings with Line Leaders to review targets.

Skills

Attention to detail

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Numerical skills

Job description

An excellent opportunity to step into a managerial role within one of the UK’s leading fresh fruit delivery companies. Reporting directly to the Production Manager, you’ll oversee the daily production operations at their Croydon hub, ensuring all products are prepared to high-quality standards. You’ll lead the production lines, ensuring efficiency, compliance with Health & Safety standards, and alignment with internal procedures. Line Leaders from each production line will report to you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and optimise production lines to maximise efficiency while maintaining product quality and packing standards.
• Oversee daily quality control, working closely with Line Leaders and liaising with the Production and Quality Managers on any issues.
• Train and onboard new production staff on fruit selection, packing, and company standards.
• Monitor product counts throughout each shift and ensure volumes meet demand, including management of High Risk products when applicable.
• Coordinate with the Load Controller and Line Leaders to ensure correct product separation, labelling, and control.
• Report any product quality issues or discrepancies to the Quality Manager.
• Track and report missing or returned baskets and manage any leftover stock.
• Supervise night shift staff, monitoring attendance, break times, and performance.
• Conduct weekly meetings with Line Leaders to review targets, issues, and improvements.
• Prepare and maintain accurate daily paperwork and production reports.
• Support the Production Manager with ad-hoc tasks and improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in fresh produce or food manufacturing.
• 1–2 years’ experience in a supervisory or team leader position.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards.
• Proven leadership ability with a “hands‑on” approach.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Strong numerical and reporting skills.
• Proactive and improvement-focused mindset.
• Energetic, reliable, and self‑motivated.
• Full driving licence (able to drive a 2.5 tonne van such as a Ford Transit).
• Willingness to work permanent night shifts.