Production Manager - Food Packaging

Taylor Higson | Print, Packaging, POS, Signage & Mailing Solutions Recruitment Specialists; England; On-site; GBP 40,500 - 49,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site parking

Stable business with long-term career potential

Job summary

A leading food packaging manufacturer in Folkestone, England, is seeking an experienced Production Manager to oversee day-to-day operations in their high-volume facility. The role entails planning and coordinating production, motivating teams, and driving operational excellence while ensuring compliance with strict food safety standards. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in food packaging and demonstrated leadership skills. This full-time position offers a salary of £45,000 per annum and opportunities for career progression.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Production / Manufacturing Management role within a packaging environment.
• Strong understanding of HACCP, BRC, ISO, GMP and food-grade compliance.
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Plan and manage production schedules, typically working two weeks ahead.
• Lead, motivate and develop production teams across multiple shifts and functions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives including Lean manufacturing and 5S.

Skills

Production / Manufacturing Management

Team leadership

Process improvement

Analytical skills

Job description

We're working with an established and growing sustainable food packaging manufacturer as they seek an experienced Production Manager to take ownership of day-to-day operations within their busy, high-volume manufacturing facility in Kent.

This is a key leadership role, offering the opportunity to make a genuine impact on efficiency, quality, team performance, and continuous improvement within a well-invested and forward-thinking business.

The Opportunity

You’ll be responsible for planning, coordinating, and controlling production activity to ensure customer orders are delivered on time, to specification, and in line with strict food safety and quality standards. Working closely with senior leadership and cross-functional teams, you’ll play a pivotal role in driving operational excellence across the site.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and manage production schedules, typically working two weeks ahead
• Monitor daily output, adjusting plans to meet demand and minimise disruption
• Lead, motivate and develop production teams across multiple shifts and functions
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives including Lean manufacturing and 5S
• Oversee labour planning, timesheets, and performance management
• Work closely with Sales, Quality, Maintenance, Warehouse and Procurement teams
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, quality and H&S standards
• Analyse production data and KPIs to improve efficiency and reduce waste

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in a Production / Manufacturing Management role within a packaging environment
• Background in food packaging or food manufacturing strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of HACCP, BRC, ISO, GMP and food‑grade compliance
• Confident people manager with experience leading sizeable shop‑floor teams
• Organised, analytical and solutions‑focused
• Comfortable operating in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment

Salary & Benefits

• £45,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
• Monday to Friday working pattern
• Day shift hours (approx. 08:30 – 17:00)
• On‑site parking
• Stable, well established business with long‑term career potential

Why Apply?

This role would suit a hands‑on Production Manager who enjoys improving processes, developing people, and working within a quality‑driven manufacturing environment. You’ll be joining a business that values structure, standards, and continuous improvement — with the autonomy to really make the role your own.

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Production and Management

Industries

Packaging and Containers Manufacturing

Location

Folkestone, England, United Kingdom