Manufacturing Manager

Protea Recruitment Ltd | Food | Drinks | FMCG Recruitment Partner; Scotland; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food processing facility in Aberdeenshire is seeking an experienced Factory Manager to oversee daily operations and improve efficiency. This senior management role requires strong leadership skills, commercial awareness, and a solid background in food manufacturing. The ideal candidate will drive growth and ensure compliance with safety standards. Join a dynamic team and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in a senior management role within food manufacturing.
• Strong operational knowledge of food processing.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and implement improvements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and improve operational performance across the factory.
• Manage budgets and cash flow effectively.
• Lead, mentor, and support staff at all levels.

Skills

Team leadership

Operational management

Financial management

Communication

Change management

Job description

Overview

Location: Aberdeenshire

Reports to: Directors

Purpose of the Role

We are seeking an experienced and ambitious Factory Manager to join our team at a small but growing food processing facility in Aberdeenshire. This is a development role designed for an individual who will first gain a deep understanding of the business, improve operational functions,

The Factory Manager will take responsibility for day-to-day operations while building the capability to assume full control of the site, covering commercial operations, finance, technical, and NPD.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and improve operational performance across the factory, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and high standards.
• Develop a strong understanding of all site functions with a view to taking on full General Manager responsibilities.
• Support and drive the company’s growth agenda, identifying opportunities for improvement and expansion.
• Manage budgets and cash flow effectively to ensure financial stability.
• Work closely with the technical and NPD teams to ensure product quality, compliance, and innovation.
• Lead, mentor, and support staff at all levels, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Build strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and investors, representing the business with professionalism and credibility.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, health & safety, and regulatory standards.

Skills, Knowledge & Experience

Essential

• Proven track record in a senior management role within food manufacturing.
• Strong operational knowledge of food processing, with exposure to multiple site functions.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, implement improvements, and manage change.
• Commercial awareness, with experience of managing budgets and cash flow.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage confidently at all levels – from shop floor staff to customers and investors.
• Energetic, self-motivated, and proactive in setting and delivering their own agenda.
• Resilient and determined, with a track record of handling challenges effectively.

Desirable

• Experience working in a small to medium-sized food manufacturing environment.
• Exposure to NPD, technical compliance, and customer engagement.
• Previous experience of stepping into a broader leadership role beyond operations.