Yorkshire Distilling Co (YDC)
Yorkshire Distilling Co. is a premier distillery based in Goole, East Yorkshire. With full grain to glass capabilities spread across two sites, our sole focus is to produce premium, high-quality spirits. This is an exciting opportunity to work in the growing sector that is English Whisky, amongst all other spirit categories, within a distillery the blends tradition with innovation.
Role:
The Master Distiller will oversee and optimise production operations within the distillery, with a strong emphasis on quality, working in collaboration with the team. The main duty is to oversee all aspects of the production process, driving quality, efficiency, and safety. As a contract distillery, you will also serve as the liaison between external customers in relation to integration and production goals. The role requires a strong focus on lean manufacturing principles, development of staff skills, and an understanding of processing raw materials. stakeholder management will define success as much as technical ability, so this is a great opportunity to broaden skillsets in a supported environment.
Responsibilities:
Production Management:
* Monitor the production processes (as applicable), including mashing, fermentation, distillation, maturation, and bottling
* Develop and implement production schedules, ensuring timely and efficient operations
* Utilise Siemens SISTAR systems to monitor and control production processes, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency required
Raw Material and Process Expertise:
* Develop a deep understanding of the unique qualities and processing requirements of each raw ingredient (such as heritage grains, grown through regenerative farming methods)
* Develop and oversee SOPs for handling and processing raw materials in a way that maximises their quality and contributes to the distinct characteristics of the spirit being produced
* Collaborate with internal and external partners to continuously improve quality and efficiency
Lean Manufacturing:
* Implement and champion lean manufacturing principles to eliminate waste, improve efficiency, and enhanced product quality
Quality Control and Compliance:
* Ensure quality standards set by both YDC and customers for all products
* Conduct regular inspections/audits of the production process, with a focus on continuous improvement
Inventory and Supply Chain Management:
* Manage raw material inventory for the production process, including sourcing and ordering of grains, yeast and other production materials.
* Coordinate with suppliers and logistics teams to ensure a smooth supply chain and timely delivery of products
* Monitor expenses and material consumption and provide regular reports to both senior management
Skills and Experience:
* Degree (or equivalent) in Food Science, Chemical process Engineering, microbiology, or a related field.
* Master’s degree or relevant industry certifications such as CIBD diploma in brewing or distilling is desirable
* Significant experience in a production management role within the alcohol or whisky industry
* In-depth knowledge of whisky production processes, including mashing, fermentation, distillation, and maturation, with experience in a production management role
* Proven experience in implementing and managing Lean, Six Sigma and/or TQM manufacturing practices
* Extensive experience with Siemens SISTAR SCADA or similar SCADA systems for process monitoring and control
* Strong understanding of raw materials and their impact on the whisky production process. An interest in regenerative farming methods is desirable
* Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
* Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations
* Effective leadership, communication and interpersonal skills
* Demonstrated ability to work in a collaborative team environment, for instance to support the development of staff skills or work together on production and quality outcomes
* Understanding of HACCP strongly desireable with willingness to be trained to level 4
Other Information:
Must have legal right to work in the United Kingdom.
Location:
Yorkshire Distilling Co. Goole, East Riding of Yorkshire
Salary:
£50k - £60k per annum dependant on experience
21 days holiday plus Bank Holidays.
Pension
Hours:
40 Hours - Monday to Friday.
Some shift, or weekend working, may be required