Operations Manager

Location: Northamptonshire

Shift Operations Manager

Food Manufacturing | Northamptonshire

£60,000 - £65,000

Not every Shift Operations Manager role is created equal.
Some are about keeping the wheels turning.
This one is about building high-performing teams, driving operational excellence and making a measurable impact across a major food manufacturing operation.
We're working with a well-established food manufacturer that continues to invest heavily in its people, processes and production capability. As part of that journey, they're looking for an experienced Shift Operations Manager who can lead from the front, challenge the status quo and develop a culture where standards, accountability and performance are non-negotiable.
You'll take ownership of a large manufacturing team through your direct reports, ensuring safety, quality, service and cost targets are consistently delivered whilst creating an environment where people can perform at their best.

What you'll be doing:

Leading and developing Production Managers and operational teams across shift
Driving a strong safety-first culture and ensuring full compliance across manufacturing operations
Delivering production plans whilst maintaining high standards of food safety, quality and GMP
Using data, KPIs and short interval control to identify losses and drive performance improvements
Leading root cause analysis and continuous improvement activity to eliminate recurring issues
Working closely with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain and wider site leadership teams
Developing talent, building capability and creating clear accountability throughout the operation
Supporting site-wide improvement initiatives and helping shape the future direction of the business

What we're looking for:

You'll already be operating within a senior production leadership role in food manufacturing and have a proven track record of leading teams in a fast-paced environment.
You'll be someone who:

Builds credibility quickly and leads through influence as well as authority
Has a strong understanding of operational excellence and continuous improvement
Uses data effectively to drive decisions and improve performance
Holds people accountable whilst developing and coaching them to succeed
Thrives in a challenging manufacturing environment where standards matter
Is passionate about developing people and creating high-performing teams

Experience

Required:

Significant leadership experience within food manufacturing, FMCG or a similarly regulated production environment
Strong knowledge of food safety, quality and manufacturing best practice
Experience leading large teams through front-line management structures
Proven delivery of KPI improvements across safety, quality, service and cost
Continuous improvement and change management experience

Why consider this opportunity?

This is a business with ambitious growth plans, a strong operational platform and genuine opportunities to make your mark.
You'll join a leadership team that values accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement, whilst having the autonomy to lead your area and influence wider site performance.
If you're looking for a role where you can drive change, develop people and have a visible impact on business results, we'd be keen to have a confidential conversation.
For more information, please apply today or contact us for a confidential discussion