Production Shift Manager

Mason James Appointments (UK) Ltd; Ashford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable food and beverage manufacturer is seeking a Production Shift Manager to oversee daily operations in Ashford, UK. The role involves leading a team, ensuring safety and quality, and driving continuous improvement. With competitive salary progression from £40,341 to £44,375 and a Monday to Friday schedule, this position offers a great opportunity for impactful leadership within a dynamic environment.

Benefits

No weekend work

Ongoing investment in development

Hands-on leadership role

Qualifications

• Experience in food, drink, FMCG or similar manufacturing as a Shift Manager or Supervisor.
• Confidence in leading teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong understanding of compliance and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead shifts to achieve safety, quality, and production targets.
• Plan and manage staffing levels and attendance.
• Complete essential documentation and end-of-shift reports.

Skills

Leadership in production

Understanding of GMP

Food safety standards knowledge

Communication skills

Planning abilities

People management skills

Tools

SAGE/ERP systems

MS Office

Job description

Production Shift Manager - Food/Drink Manufacturing

Shifts: Weekly Rotating - 7am-3pm / 3pm-11pm, Monday to Friday
Salary: £40,341, rising to £44,375 after 6-month probation
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent

A great opportunity for an experienced Production Supervisor / Shift Manager to join a fast-paced food & beverage manufacturing environment. You'll lead your shift, drive performance, and ensure production targets are met safely and efficiently.

The Role

Reporting to the Production Manager, you'll oversee all activity on shift — managing people, performance, and compliance. It's a hands‑on leadership role where you'll be visible on the shop floor, supporting your team and keeping production running smoothly.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead your shift to meet daily safety, quality, and production targets.
• Deliver clear, structured handovers between shifts.
• Plan staffing levels and manage attendance/agency labour.
• Coach, support and develop your team to achieve consistent performance.
• Hold daily briefings to communicate priorities and targets.
• Complete end‑of‑shift reports, checks, and essential documentation.
• Work with Engineering to report issues and minimise downtime.
• Drive continuous improvement using lean tools and problem‑solving.

About You

• Experience as a Production Shift Manager, Supervisor or Team Leader in food, drink, FMCG or similar manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of GMP, HACCP and food safety standards.
• Confident leading teams in a fast‑moving production environment.
• Good communication, planning, and people‑management skills.
• Comfortable using systems such as SAGE/ERP and MS Office.

Why Apply

• Monday‑Friday rotating shifts - no weekends.
• Salary rising from £40,341 to £44,375 after probation period.
• Hands‑on leadership role with real influence.
• Strong, stable manufacturer with ongoing investment and development opportunities.

If you're looking for a shift leadership role where you can genuinely make an impact, apply today to find out more