Operations Team Leader

Pursuit Executive Recruitment Ltd; City Of London; On-site; GBP 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food manufacturing company is seeking an Operations Team Leader in Rainham, Essex. The successful candidate will oversee milling operations, lead a dedicated team, and drive continuous improvements. Essential qualifications include at least 5 years of people management experience, preferably in food manufacturing. This role offers a competitive salary of £50,000 and comprehensive benefits including annual leave, pension contributions, and ongoing training opportunities.

Benefits

25 days holiday (increasing to 28)

Group pension plan with 4% contribution

Free daily lunches

Comprehensive training programs

Employee recognition awards

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in people management roles.
• Strong leadership experience in manufacturing, preferably food.
• Experience in food manufacturing is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of mill operatives.
• Drive performance improvements in quality and safety.
• Manage contractor relationships and ensure compliance.

Skills

People management experience

Leadership in manufacturing

Data-driven analytical skills

Continuous improvement mindset

Education

Degree or NVQ qualification in manufacturing/engineering

Tools

MRP systems

SCADA systems

Counterbalance forklift

Job description

Operations Team Leader - Food Manufacturing

Location: Rainham, Essex Salary: 50,000 + Comprehensive benefits

Shifts; Monday to Friday on a rotational basis / Flexible to the needs to the team / business / individual. Operations are from 6am - 10pm; 39-40 hours per week.

YOU WILL NEED TO BE A CAR DRIVER FOR THIS ROLE BASED ON THE LOCATION OF THE MANUFACTURING SITE.

PLEASE ONLY APPLY IF YOU HAVE INDEFINITE RIGHTS IN PLACE TO WORK IN THE UK WITH NO NEED FOR SPONSORSHIP.

About the Opportunity

Our client; a leading Food Manufacturer is recruiting for an Operations Team Leader at their state-of-the-art milling facility in Rainham. We're looking for an experienced people manager to lead our client's milling / production operations and drive continuous improvement in this hands-on leadership role.

This position offers excellent career progression opportunities, with clear succession planning pathways to Mill Manager level for the right candidate.

The Role

As Operations Team Leader / Supervisor, you'll lead a dedicated team of millers and intake operatives, taking full responsibility for milling operations including intake, milling, and bran outloading. You'll be the key decision-maker for your shift, driving performance improvements in safety, quality, and efficiency while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop a team of mill operatives across all milling activities
• Drive performance improvements in Quality, OEE, and safety metrics
• Manage contractor relationships and ensure safe working practices
• Report on KPIs and operational performance to senior management
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives and embed lean manufacturing principles
• Ensure 100% compliance with HACCP, BRC standards, and food safety requirements
• Manage shift resources, training plans, and holiday coverage
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to optimize mill performance

Working Pattern & Benefits

Our client offers flexible working arrangements; Monday to Friday to suit business needs.

Company Benefits:

• Holidays: 25 days (increasing to 28 days with service)
• Additional Leave: Up to 10 extra days for long service milestones
• Pension: Group personal pension with 4% company contribution
• Life Cover: 3 x salary paid to your nominated beneficiary
• Maternity Pay: Occupational maternity pay plus SMP
• Accident Cover: Disability compensation payment
• Health & Wellbeing: BUPA & BUPA cash plan (individual or family)
• Recognition: Employee Star Award
• Lunches & Drinks: Free lunch every day (valued at 700) + free drinks
• Social: Heavily subsidised sports & social events + annual company BBQ
• Annual Flu Vaccination: Provided for all employees

Additional benefits:

• Call-out system with time off in lieu or additional compensation
• Comprehensive training and development programs
• Professional qualifications funded (NEBOSH, IOSH, First Aid, Fire Marshal)
• Clear progression pathway to Mill Manager role
• Additional allowances for safety leadership roles

What We're Looking For

Essential Experience:

• Minimum 5 years in people management roles - essential
• Strong leadership experience in manufacturing environment (Food / FMCG preferred, manufacturing experience essential )
• Experience in food manufacturing highly preferred
• Data-driven approach with strong analytical skills

Desirable Qualifications:

• Degree or NVQ qualification in manufacturing/engineering
• Counterbalance forklift license (training provided if expired)
• NEBOSH or IOSH safety certification (training available)
• Experience with MRP and SCADA systems
• Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement training
• First Aid and Fire Marshal qualifications

Personal Qualities:

• Self-driven with positive mindset
• Embraces diversity and equality
• Strong attention to detail and quality focus
• Excellent communication and training skills
• Progressive outlook with direct leadership style

Ready to take the next step in your manufacturing leadership career? We'd love to hear from you.