Head of Production - Food Packaging

Taylor Higson; Croydon; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading packaging manufacturer in Croydon is seeking a Head of Packaging Production to lead operations across two UK sites. The role involves managing various functions, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring compliance. Ideal candidates have senior-level manufacturing leadership experience in the packaging industry with strong leadership skills. A competitive salary of £55,000 – £65,000 and benefits including a company car and performance bonus are offered.

Benefits

Company car

Performance bonus

Paid overtime

Generous holiday allowance

Professional development support

Qualifications

• Senior-level experience in a manufacturing leadership role within the packaging industry.
• Strong knowledge of packaging production methods and modern manufacturing practices.
• A track record of delivering operational improvements and leading change.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage production, engineering, quality, and site HR functions.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Monitor and improve KPIs across OEE, waste, throughput, delivery, and quality.

Skills

Manufacturing leadership

Packaging production methods

Operational improvements

Leadership and stakeholder management

Education

Degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, or Operations

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

Lean

Six Sigma

Job description

Job Title: Head of Packaging Production
Salary: £55,000 – £65,000 DOE + Car + Bonus + Benefits
Location: Croydon, South London (occasional travel to another nearby site)

Looking to step up into a senior leadership role, but feel stuck where you are?
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced production professional in the foodpackaging sector—particularly someone from a larger manufacturing business—who’s ready to take full operational ownership but hasn’t had the chance to progress.

We're working with a well-established, privately owned manufacturer of bespoke food packaging solutions, supplying to some of the UK’s most recognisable names. With a culture focused on innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence, the business is poised for growth and looking to bring in a Head of Production to lead operations across two UK sites.

The Role

This is a pivotal, hands-on leadership role with full site responsibility, offering a genuine chance to shape the production strategy and make a lasting impact.

• Lead and manage production, engineering, quality, and site HR functions

• Drive continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, and best-practice methodologies

• Monitor and improve KPIs across OEE, waste, throughput, delivery, and quality

• Ensure Health & Safety and regulatory compliance across both sites

• Work collaboratively with planning, logistics and commercial teams to meet customer needs

• Inspire and develop a multi-skilled team, building a culture of accountability and results

What You’ll Need

• Senior-level experience in a manufacturing leadership role within the packaging industry

• Strong knowledge of packaging production methods and modern manufacturing practices

• A track record of delivering operational improvements and leading change

• Working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems, Lean, and Six Sigma (Black Belt a bonus)

• Confident leadership and stakeholder management skills

• A degree in Manufacturing, Engineering, or Operations (Master’s a plus)

Location Requirement

You must be based within a commutable distance to Croydon, as this is where the role is based. Occasional travel to a second London-based location is required, so flexibility is essential.

What’s on Offer

• £55,000 – £65,000 depending on experience

• Company car + performance bonus

• Paid overtime + early finish on Fridays

• Generous holiday allowance

• Professional development support and progression potential

• A chance to step up, take ownership, and drive real change in a stable, growth-focused business

If you’re a packaging production professional ready to take your next career leap, we’d love to speak with you.