Location: Banbury (commutable within 1 hour)
The Opportunity
We are working in partnership with a leading, privately owned global food ingredients manufacturer to appoint a Production Manager at a key site in Banbury.
This is a highly visible and business-critical leadership role within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. It offers significant scope for progression, with a clear pathway toward Plant Manager level over time.
The Role
This is a hands‑on leadership position overseeing a large-scale blending operation running across multiple shifts. You will lead a sizeable team (circa 100–200 employees across shifts), ensuring safe, efficient, and high‑quality production performance in a demanding and dynamic environment.
Reporting directly to the Plant Manager, you will act as their deputy and take full site responsibility when required. The role requires a high level of resilience, energy, and commitment, including being on‑call and maintaining a strong on‑site presence.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, coach, and develop multi‑shift production teams (4 shifts, 40 employees per shift)
- Create a high‑performance culture with clear accountability and strong engagement
- Deliver production targets in line with the Master Production Schedule, maintaining quality and service standards
- Ensure all plant and equipment operate at optimal performance levels
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives across efficiency, waste reduction, and process stability
- Maintain rigorous Health & Safety, hygiene, and environmental standards
- Ensure all training is current, effective, and properly documented
- Oversee accurate completion of manufacturing documentation
- Lead root cause analysis and resolution of technical or quality issues
- Work closely with engineering to maximise equipment reliability and minimise downtime
- Step into full site leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Plant Manager
About You
- Proven experience in a senior production/manufacturing leadership role within FMCG or food manufacturing
- Experience managing large teams in a fast‑paced, multi‑shift environment (ideally 100–200 employees or equivalent)
- Strong technical and operational understanding of manufacturing processes
- Deep knowledge of Health & Safety and food hygiene standards
- A resilient, hands‑on leader who thrives in demanding environments
- Passion for food manufacturing and operational excellence
- Strong communication, problem‑solving, and leadership skills
- Able to commit to being on‑site and within a realistic one‑hour commute of Banbury
What’s on Offer
- Discretionary bonus (2%, typically paid at Christmas)
- Contracted 37‑hour week (with flexibility required due to the nature of the role)
- Long‑term career progression toward Plant Manager level
Why Apply?
This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior operational leadership role within a well‑established and growing international business. You’ll play a key role in shaping site performance, leading large teams, and driving continuous improvement – while building a clear pathway toward Plant leadership.
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