Autonomous Production & Quality Manager - Food Manufacturing

Acorn Recruitment; Preston; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Acorn Recruitment in the Preston area is seeking a Production Manager to oversee quality, food safety, and production performance across a busy fresh produce operation. This hands-on management role focuses on maintaining product quality, driving efficiency, and developing production teams.

The role requires strong knowledge of food safety standards, HACCP experience, and leadership skills to manage staff and drive continuous improvement in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a Quality, Production Management or Food Manufacturing position.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene and quality standards.
• Experience working with HACCP systems.
• Knowledge of BRC standards would be advantageous.
• Excellent organisational and record-keeping skills.
• Experience training, developing and managing production staff.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day running of production operations.
• Ensure products are produced safely, efficiently and to customer specifications.
• Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, quality and traceability.
• Lead and develop production employees through training, coaching and performance management.
• Manage HACCP systems and ensure all relevant controls are implemented and followed.
• Prepare for and lead external audits.
• Monitor production records, quality documentation and cleaning schedules.
• Ensure machinery is operating safely and effectively, carrying out basic maintenance and fault finding where appropriate.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across production and quality functions.
• Promote a positive health and safety culture throughout the site.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Food safety knowledge

Quality management

HACCP experience

Auditing

Continuous improvement

Training and development

Tools

HACCP systems

Job description

Acorn Recruitment in the Preston area is seeking a Production Manager to oversee quality, food safety, and production performance across a busy fresh produce operation. This hands-on management role focuses on maintaining product quality, driving efficiency, and developing production teams.

The role requires strong knowledge of food safety standards, HACCP experience, and leadership skills to manage staff and drive continuous improvement in a fast-paced environment.