Production Manager

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.

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

• 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

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

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.