Production Manager – Fresh Produce – Soham
Salary: Up to £48,000 + Bonus
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Production Manager to join a leading fresh produce business with a rich heritage in the industry. This is a key role within site operations, taking full ownership of a highly automated wash facility responsible for receiving, washing, grading, and supplying product to packing lines. Operating across both organic and conventional streams, the wash department is a critical driver of site performance, directly influencing quality, efficiency, yield, and customer service levels.
The Role
Reporting to the General Manager and a part of the SLT, you will take full accountability for the performance of the wash/production operation. This is a process-driven, high-volume environment running 7 days a week, supported by shift-based teams and team leaders who report directly into you.
You will be responsible for:
- Owning all performance KPIs
- Optimising crop utilisation and yield to maximise value for both the site and growers
- Leading a proactive safety culture with a target of zero accidents
- Ensuring the department is audit‑ready at all times
- Driving continuous improvement initiatives across efficiency and labour performance
- Managing labour planning to ensure quality delivery at the most efficient cost
Key Performance Measures
- Tonnes per hour / tonnes per labour hour
- Yield performance and packout optimisation
- GMP audit performance
- Zero non-conformances across internal and external audits
- Safety performance and engagement metrics
About You
We are looking for a confident and resilient manufacturing leader who thrives in a fast‑paced, automated environment.
You will ideally bring:
- 5+ years’ experience as a Production Manager or Shift Manager within Fresh Produce
- Strong knowledge of food safety and HACCP (Level 3 preferred)
- A proven track record of driving performance and leading teams
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and manage KPIs
- Excellent IT skills, including confident use of spreadsheets and reporting tools
- A hands‑on, action‑oriented leadership style
The Opportunity
This is a high-impact role within a business that values operational ownership, teamwork, and continuous improvement. You will have real autonomy to shape the performance and culture of a critical department while contributing to wider site success.
If you are an experienced production leader looking for your next step within fresh produce, then click below to apply.
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