Head of Production - Food Manufacturing

Michael Page; London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a dynamic Head of Production to lead operational excellence in manufacturing. This role focuses on optimizing processes, driving KPIs, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of the packaging industry. With a commitment to quality and safety, you'll lead a high-performing team through growth, ensuring compliance with industry standards while implementing innovative strategies. Join a supportive environment that values professional development and offers a competitive compensation package.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Company car provided

Ongoing professional development

Supportive company culture

Qualifications

• 3-7+ years in manufacturing management, ideally in food or packaging.
• Proven success in exceeding KPIs in high-performance environments.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all manufacturing operations and ensure compliance with standards.
• Drive Lean and Six Sigma initiatives to eliminate waste and improve efficiency.

Skills

Lean methodologies

Six Sigma

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Master's degree in Engineering

Tools

Manufacturing software

Data analysis tools

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

The multi-site Head of Production/Manufacturing Manager will play a key role in driving operational excellence and elevating my client to the next level by focusing on KPIs and continuous improvement goals. Based primarily in Croydon, this position will be crucial in leading both people and processes through a period of growth and beyond

Client Details

My client is leading supplier of food packaging solutions in the UK, we are dedicated to excellence in manufacturing, quality, and customer satisfaction. We are looking for a dynamic and results-driven Site Manager/ Head of Production to enhance operational efficiency and achieve key performance indicators (KPIs) at our manufacturing facility.

Description

The Head of Production will lead and optimize all manufacturing operations, focusing on continuous improvement, efficiency, and meeting key KPIs in production, quality, safety, and cost. The ideal candidate will have in-depth knowledge of packaging industry processes, along with strong leadership and analytical skills.

• Operational Leadership:
  
  • Oversee all manufacturing operations, including production, maintenance, quality control, and HR.
    
  • Develop strategies to optimize processes and improve efficiency.
    
  • Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
    
  • Lead and mentor a high-performing, continuous improvement-driven team.
    
• KPI Management:
  
  • Establish, monitor, and analyze KPIs like OEE, production efficiency, waste reduction, and on-time delivery.
    
  • Implement action plans to address KPI deviations and drive improvements.
    
  • Utilize data-driven decision-making to achieve operational excellence.
    
  • Present KPI reports to senior management.
    
• Continuous Improvement:
  
  • Drive Lean and Six Sigma initiatives to eliminate waste and improve efficiency.
    
  • Lead improvement projects, including root cause analysis and process optimization.
    
  • Identify and implement best practices to boost productivity and reduce costs.
    
• Resource Management:
  
  • Optimize personnel, equipment, and materials allocation.
    
  • Develop production schedules to meet demand and manage inventory levels.
    
  • Ensure effective cross-department communication, including with supply chain and sales.
    
• Safety and Compliance:
  
  • Enforce safety regulations and protocols across operations.
    
  • Implement and ensure adherence to safety procedures.
    

Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field (Master's preferred)
  
• 3-7+ years in manufacturing management, ideally within the food, beverage or packaging industry
  
• Proven success in exceeding KPIs in high-performance environments
  
• Expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies
  
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
  
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities
  
• Proficient with manufacturing software, data analysis tools, and ERP/MRP systems
  
• Deep understanding of packaging manufacturing processes
  
• Preferred: Six Sigma Black Belt certification
  

Job Offer

• Competitive compensation package
  
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
  
• Company car provided
  
• Opportunity to grow with a rapidly expanding business
  
• Ongoing professional development and career growth
  
• Supportive and collaborative company culture