Production Operations Manager - Beverage Manufacturing

• Autonomy and ownership of small site operations!
• Great small company culture and work-life balance!

About Our Client

My client is Beverage small-sized beverage manufacture that is known for its prestige, quality, and sustainability. Operating in the Winchester Area they are looking for a passionate and hand-on Production Operations Manager.

Job Description

• Oversees team development and overall performance to drive growth and success
• Coordinates operations to align with strategic business goals and requirements
• Manages daily production, procurement, and operational planning
• Maintains clear communication with team members to ensure timely delivery of products
• Plans and reviews workloads and staffing to meet targets efficiently and cost-effectively
• Oversees inventory control and ensures accuracy of stock records
• Ensures the production team meets manufacturing and delivery schedules based on company demands
• Develops detailed production schedules aligned with strict deadlines
• Communicates any order or delivery changes to relevant stakeholders
• Monitors and enforces production quality standards
• Maintains a safe and compliant working environment
• Procures necessary materials and services to support production
• Identifies and addresses disruptions to departmental operations
• Plans and manages inventory activities
• Ensures compliance with health and safety regulations
• Provides support, leadership, and guidance to team members
• Coordinates adequate absence coverage to maintain smooth operations
• Ensures all activities are conducted efficiently and cost-effectively
• Supports compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
• Analyzes financial data to enhance operational profitability
• Manages departmental budgets and financial forecasts
• Leads project management initiatives
• Conducts quality control checks and tracks production KPIs
• Ensures compliance with Health & Safety (H&S) and HACCP standards
• Collaborates with the QC Manager and CEO on environmental and regulatory compliance

The Successful Applicant

An ideal Production Operations Manager will possess:

• Demonstrated experience in Production, Engineering, Planning, or Operations within the Food or Beverage manufacturing sector
• Hands-on experience in a small-scale manufacturing environment, ideally managing teams of 15-100 employees
• A proactive, adaptable mindset-comfortable working in ambiguity, taking initiative, and wearing multiple hats
• In-depth knowledge of production management, manufacturing operations, and production planning processes
• A solid understanding of health and safety regulations and best practices
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with sound decision-making capabilities
• Proven leadership ability with a focus on motivating and managing cross-functional teams effectively
• A foundational understanding of Procurement, Supply Chain, and Inventory Management-with a genuine interest in developing expertise in these areas
• Confidence in interpreting and utilizing production data to drive performance improvements
• A people-first approach, valuing a collaborative, close-knit team culture and demonstrating emotional intelligence in interpersonal interactions
• Experience with small-scale CAPEX projects or project management is a strong advantage
• A valid UK driver's licence and access to a personal vehicle for commuting to the Greater Winchester area are required

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary in the range.
• Work life balance: Monday 8-3 PM & Tuesday- Friday 6-4 PM (no weekend or evening production)
• Permanent role within a reputable Beverage organisation.
• Opportunities for professional learning and development.
• A supportive work environment in the Winchester Area location.
• 25 days holiday + bank with opportunity to earn up to 28 days after years of service.

If you are ready to take on this exciting opportunity as a Production Operations Manager in the Food and Beverage industry, we encourage you to apply today!