Lead Engineer, Operations Management

Summary Be the Driving Force Behind a Safe, Efficient and Sustainable Feed Mill The Role

We are seeking a skilled and proactive Lead Engineer to take full responsibility for all aspects of plant and equipment at our Brydock Feed Mill, ensuring everything is maintained to the highest standards and operates safely and efficiently. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will lead the Mill’s engineering function, driving performance, reliability, and continuous improvement across all areas.

You will own, maintain, and further develop the Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) process, ensuring the mill operates at optimal efficiency while meeting all safety, environmental, and compliance requirements. With a strong focus on operational excellence, you will also play a pivotal role in managing environmental performance and sustainability at Brydock Mill, leveraging your engineering expertise to deliver the Five Dimensions of Sofina Plant Success – safety, quality, service, cost, and people

• Lead the safe, efficient, and values-led management of all site engineering activities.
• Oversee the site’s Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and ensure Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) meets site and group standards.
• Use management information to identify priorities and deliver on engineering and operational goals.
• Manage the maintenance budget effectively, ensuring financial accountability and value for money.
• Collaborate with Sofina engineering teams, contractors, and internal departments to achieve mill engineering objectives.
• Drive compliance with all safety, quality, and audit standards, including UFAS requirements.
• Foster a positive HSE culture, promoting accountability, engagement, and personal development across the team.
• Partner with HR to lead training, onboarding, and performance development, building a skilled and motivated workforce.
• Provide expert engineering advice to the leadership team, supporting continuous improvement and best practice.
• Champion site safety, ensuring equipment and systems operate efficiently and in full compliance with regulations.

• Degree-level education with an HNC or equivalent in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering.
• NEBOSH Certificate
• 16th/17th Edition electrical qualification (or equivalent).
• Compliance
• Experience in engineering leadership within an FMCG environment, ideally with exposure to M&S audit standards and maintaining audit readiness.
• Experience with grain handling and processing equipment including pellet press and grain grinding.
• Strong communication, presentation, and influencing skills, with confidence working across professional teams.
• Proven ability to deliver results, manage multiple priorities, and lead projects across multi-site operations.
• Demonstrates strategic thinking, integrity, and a commitment to role-modelling positive leadership behaviours.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office with a structured and results-driven approach to work.

At Sofina, you’re not just a number - you’re part of a global team that values craftsmanship, growth, and innovation.

• Security & Stability:
  Join a well-established business with over 13,000 employees across Canada and Europe
• Long-Term Growth:
  We promote from within and offer structured training pathways for career development
• Culture That Cares:
  From health and safety to personal development, we prioritise people first
• Competitive Pay & Support:
  Enjoy a strong salary package, contributory pension, and life assurance
• Modern Workplace:
  Onsite parking, digital benefits hub, and clean, high-standard production facilities

We don’t just offer benefits—we offer a working environment where your skills are respected and your…