Job Advert
Job Title: Factory Manager
Salary: £60-65k + Car Allowance + Bonus
Location: Milton Keynes
Responsible for: All Factory-Based Employees within Operations
About the Role:
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Factory Manager to lead our manufacturing operations in Milton Keynes. This is a
critical leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of production, driving operational excellence, and fostering a
culture of continuous improvement. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure the highest quality standards,
efficiency, and team development.
Key Responsibilities:
* Provide leadership to all factory personnel, ensuring production meets scheduled plans and operational data is recorded
accurately.
* Implement and improve systems and processes to drive efficiency and positive cultural behaviours in line with company policies
and values.
* Collaborate with New Product Development and Process teams to successfully launch new products, meeting customer specifications
and cost expectations.
* Drive an Operational Excellence culture by monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) such as throughput, waste, and costs.
* Enhance equipment and processes to minimize loss through continuous improvement initiatives.
* Ensure an ‘audit-ready’ status is maintained at all times.
* Establish and manage an effective leadership structure and workforce planning to meet production targets.
* Set and monitor KPIs for direct reports and their teams, ensuring accountability and performance improvement.
* Manage and support customer visits and audits, fostering strong relationships with clients and regulatory bodies.
* Communicate effectively with teams through regular meetings and updates, encouraging feedback and proactive engagement.
Safety, Health & Environment Responsibilities:
* Ensure full compliance with company safety policies and relevant health & safety legislation.
* Conduct risk assessments and implement safety measures to maintain a risk-free working environment.
* Supervise and ensure proper safety training for all employees and contractors.
* Maintain high housekeeping standards and enforce compliance with protective equipment requirements.
* Conduct audits and take corrective actions on any identified risks or non-conformities.
Food Safety & Quality Responsibilities:
* Ensure full compliance with food safety and quality standards, including BRC regulations and HACCP principles.
* Oversee adherence to good manufacturing practices (GMP), allergen control, and product specifications.
* Work closely with Quality Assurance (QA) teams to investigate and resolve non-conformances and customer complaints.
* Ensure accurate and up-to-date record-keeping for all quality-related processes.
Leadership & People Development:
* Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing team, ensuring succession planning and career progression.
* Maintain a structured development plan for all Area Managers and Team Leaders.
* Foster a culture of accountability and recognition, ensuring strong performance is rewarded.
* Effectively handle employee relations, including disciplinary procedures and performance management.
* Promote strong communication channels to align employees with business goals and priorities.
Required Skills & Experience:
* Proven experience leading large operational teams within chilled food manufacturing.
* Strong track record of Operational Excellence and continuous improvement.
* Experience managing Retail customer visits and audits.
* Working knowledge of ERP systems and ability to analyze operational KPIs.
* Expertise in BRC regulations, food safety standards, and HACCP principles.
* Excellent interpersonal, coaching, and influencing skills.
* Knowledge of baking processes and key raw materials is desirable.
* Strong understanding of health & safety legislation and risk assessment.
* High proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
* Ability to lead, inspire, and motivate a diverse team, demonstrating energy and resilience.
Why Join Us?
* Opportunity to lead and shape manufacturing operations in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
* A company culture focused on continuous improvement, innovation, and team development.
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
If you are a results-driven Factory Manager with a passion for leadership and operational excellence, we would love to hear from
you! Apply now to be part of our growing team.