Processed Cheese Supervisor

Greys Personnel; Cradock; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Production Supervisor for the processed cheese department in Cradock. The successful candidate must have extensive technical experience in slice-on-slice processed cheese production, proven supervisory capabilities, and a relevant qualification in Food Technology or Dairy Processing. Responsibilities include overseeing production activities, ensuring adherence to food safety standards, and driving departmental performance. This role requires exemplary leadership in a high-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 / Matric / Equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years experience in processed cheese manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of FSSC 22000 and HACCP principles.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily activities in cheese production department.
• Lead a team of approximately 15 employees.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Technical knowledge in dairy processing

Leadership skills

Education

Relevant qualification in Food Technology or Dairy Processing

Job description

Location

Queenstown, Eastern Cape

Requirements

• Grade 12 / Matric / Equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years experience in processed cheese manufacturing, with proven supervisory experience.
• Extensive technical experience in slice‑on‑slice processed cheese production (non‑negotiable).
• Relevant qualification in Food Technology, Dairy Processing, or equivalent: Minimum NQF 4, with NQF 5+ and dairy‑specific certifications being advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of FSSC 22000 (Version 6) implementation and audit readiness.
• Solid understanding of high‑care production environments, HACCP principles, GMP, allergen control and CCP monitoring.
• Proven experience managing production KPIs: yield, waste, efficiency, quality and material control.
• Strong leadership, operational discipline, decision‑making and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment with strict customer (QSR) standards.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee all activities within the slice‑on‑slice processed cheese department including daily planning, scheduling, and output management.
• Lead and manage a workforce of approximately 15 employees, ensuring optimal manpower utilisation.
• Maintain strict adherence to production targets, efficiency metrics, and customer specifications.

Food Safety & Quality Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with FSSC 22000 (V6), regulatory requirements, internal quality policies, and QSR standards.
• Monitor CCPs, hygiene, allergen controls, and GMP adherence.
• Support and lead internal and external audits to maintain audit readiness.

Performance & Cost Control

• Drive improvements in yield, waste reduction, cost efficiency, and material utilisation.
• Analyse and report departmental KPIs, variances, and implement corrective actions.
• Initiate continuous improvement projects to enhance productivity and reduce downtime.

People Management & Development

• Provide leadership, coaching, and performance management to team leaders and production staff.
• Ensure staff development, full SOP compliance, and adherence to safety procedures.
• Foster a disciplined, high‑performance culture within the department.

Stakeholder & Customer Interaction

• Work closely with Quality, Technical, Warehouse & Distribution, and SHE teams to ensure smooth operational flow.
• Participate in customer visits and ensure compliance with global QSR standards and customer expectations.

How to Apply