Job Description

As a Operations Manufacturing Manager in the RTE Food industry, you will oversee and optimise all of the production processes to ensure efficiency, quality, and safety standards are consistently met. Reporting into a Site GM, this role in Plymouth Greater Area is ideal for a strong operations manufacturing leader ready to take on a large workforce and lead a team into the next chapter.

• Lead and oversee daily manufacturing operations to ensure production targets are consistently met or exceeded.
• Implement and monitor quality assurance systems to uphold product integrity and meet industry standards.
• Ensure full compliance with all workplace safety, health, and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and drive strategies to optimize production efficiency, minimize waste, and improve overall operational effectiveness.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with departments such as Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain to improve performance across the value stream.
• Motivate and manage high-performing teams, fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement.
• Prepare and deliver performance reports and operational insights to senior leadership, supporting data-driven decision-making.
• Oversee equipment reliability, including maintenance planning and troubleshooting, to reduce downtime and support uninterrupted production.
• Mentor and develop front-line Managers, providing guidance, coaching, and leadership to build future capability.
• Support and contribute to Continuous Improvement (CI) and CAPEX initiatives, driving innovation and long-term operational growth.
• Ensure cost-effective operations through data-driven decision-making.

Comprehensive oversight of a large-scale, 24/7 facilityExpanding organization with significant capital projects underway
Extensive Operational Leadership:

• Proven experience managing large-scale manufacturing operations (200+ workforce) within the Food, Beverage, or Personal Care industries.

Strong Operational Track Record:

• Demonstrated success in similar roles at comparable-sized sites, with a focus on delivering performance, safety, and quality targets.

People-Centered Leadership:

• Effective at gaining team buy-in, mentoring managers (typically overseeing 3 direct reports), and fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture.

Team Development & Engagement:

• Skilled at leading, developing, and retaining large operational teams, with a progressive leadership style focused on empowerment and accountability.

Production & Quality Expertise:

• Solid knowledge of end-to-end production processes and quality assurance standards essential to regulated manufacturing environments.

Health & Safety Compliance:

• Well-versed in manufacturing HSE requirements, with relevant certifications including HACCP Level 3 and IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health).

Strong Decision-Making Skills:

• Analytical and solutions-oriented, with a proactive approach to troubleshooting and making decisions aligned with business needs.

Systems & Digital Proficiency:

• Proficient in manufacturing and reporting platforms, including Micros systems and other industry-standard tools.

Continuous Improvement (CI):

• Working knowledge of Lean or Continuous Improvement methodologies; able to identify and implement efficiency gains.

Desirable Bonus Experience:

• Exposure to brand-driven manufacturing environments is a plus, especially where brand integrity and consistency are key.
• Self-motivated and meticulous, with a keen eye for detail.

The employer is a well-established organisation within the UK Food industry, known for its commitment to excellence in production and operational management. Operating as a medium-large sized company, they focus on delivering high-quality products to their clients and maintaining efficient manufacturing systems, all while adding capital into company and facility expansion!

• Competitive salary.
• Generous car allowance valued at 9,000.
• Opportunity to work in a thriving Food manufacturing environment in Cornwall / Devon area.
• Fixed-term contract offering stability and career growth prospects.
• Collaborative and professional company culture.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career as a Manufacturing Manager, apply today to be part of this exciting opportunity in the FMCG sector!

Skills Required