Job Description Kirsty's is a rapidly growing food manufacturing business, trading over multiple categories within the chilled, frozen and ready to eat fixtures supplying all major retailers.
In a relatively modest factory, we can produce up to 250,000 meals a week and we need reliable and committed individuals to join our diverse team!
Our culture is built on respect, teamwork, ambition and excellence, if you think you represent these values then we would love to hear from you!
Role Overview The Operations Manager will report to the Site and Operations Director and be responsible for overseeing the entire production process, ensuring the efficient, cost-effective, and timely production of high-quality ready meals.
This hands-on role requires a dynamic leader with extensive experience in food manufacturing, quality assurance, and operational efficiency.
The ideal candidate will drive operational excellence, maintain strict compliance with food safety regulations, and foster a continuous improvement culture.
Main Activities/Duties - 1.
Operational LeadershipOversee daily production activities, ensuring production schedules are met while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Develop and implement strategies to improve operational efficiency, productivity, and reduce downtime.
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams including Procurement, Sales, Quality Assurance, and Maintenance to ensure seamless operations.
- 2.
Production ManagementManage and monitor production KPIs, including yield, labour efficiency, waste, and on-time delivery.
- Monitor and manage inventory levels, ensuring that raw materials and packaging are available to meet production demands.
- 3.
Food Safety & Quality AssuranceEnsure compliance with all food safety standards (e.g.
HACCP, BRC, FSA), as well as internal quality protocols.
- Collaborate with the Quality Assurance team to implement food safety procedures, regular audits, and employee training programs.
- Address and resolve any quality or safety issues promptly and effectively.
- 4.
Team Leadership & DevelopmentLead, mentor, and motivate the production team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Conduct performance evaluations, set objectives, and provide coaching for team members to develop their skills.
- Recruit, train, and retain top talent to maintain a high-performing team.
- 5.
Financial ManagementDevelop and manage the production budget, optimising costs while maintaining product quality and safety standards.
- Analyse production costs and identify areas for savings without compromising on quality.
- Prepare regular financial and operational reports for senior management, identifying key areas for improvement.
- 6.
Supply Chain & Vendor ManagementWork closely with the procurement team to ensure timely and cost-effective sourcing of raw materials.
- Manage relationships with suppliers and negotiate contracts to ensure the best pricing and service.
- Ensure efficient logistics, from raw material intake to finished product delivery.
- 7.
Continuous Improvement & InnovationDrive continuous improvement initiatives to optimize production processes, enhance product quality, and reduce waste.
- Stay up to date with industry trends, innovations, and technologies, implementing relevant advancements to improve operations.
- Identify and implement automation opportunities to improve productivity and efficiency.
- 8.
Compliance & Risk ManagementEnsure adherence to all regulatory requirements including health and safety, environmental, and food hygiene regulations.
- Develop risk management strategies and contingency plans to mitigate operational disruptions.
- Assist with audits from external regulatory bodies and ensure that all documentation and processes are audit ready.
Qualifications & Skills - Education & ExperienceMinimum of 5 years of experience in food manufacturing or ready meal production in a senior operational role.
- Proven track record of managing large-scale production operations in a fast-paced environment.
- Skills & CompetenciesLeadership: Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to motivate and guide a large team.
- Operational Excellence: Deep understanding of production processes and Lean/Six Sigma methodologies.
- Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and solve complex operational challenges quickly and efficiently.
- Financial Acumen: Experience in budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage cross-functional teams.
- Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with manufacturing ERP systems, production scheduling software, and automation technologies and MS Office.
- Attention to Detail: Strong focus on maintaining high quality and safety standards throughout the production process.
- Certifications (Essential)Food Safety Level 3 - HACCP Level 3 - IOSH or NEBOSH - Certifications (Preferred)Lean Six Sigma Certification - Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)On-time delivery performance - Production efficiency (OEE, labour productivity) - Cost per Kg of production - Product quality (defect rates, customer complaints) - Compliance with food safety and regulatory standards - Employee retention and satisfaction - Work EnvironmentThis role is based in a food manufacturing environment where the individual will be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Flexibility to work extended hours or shifts as required to meet production demands and to be on call for to provide support as required.
- Regular exposure to a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Renumeration and Benefits: - Annual Salary £50,000 - £60,000 DOE - Bonus Scheme - Private medical insurance - Medical Cash Plan - Additional leave - Company pension - Discounted or free food - Free parking - On-site parking - Referral programme - UK visa sponsorship