Scope of Role Avondale Foods is a leading food processing company of Fresh and Chilled products supplying leading retail businesses such as Marks & Spencer, Morrisons and Waitrose in the UK. The Equipment Operations Manager will report to the Head of Technical and be part of the established Hygiene team. They will support the hygiene department to ensure the efficient and safe operation of manufacturing equipment throughout the hygiene cycle and in preparation for shift commencement. Key Responsibilities Be audit-ready at all times Develop, implement and oversee a comprehensive preventative maintenance programme for all equipment & facilities ensuring reliability and operational efficiency. Ensure all maintenance activities align with food safety standards including BRC, HACCP and customer requirements Collaborate with the quality team to identify and mitigate potential food safety risks related to equipment and premises conditions Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance Implement corrective actions for any deficiencies during internal or external audits Ensure all equipment and systems are compliant with relevant regulations Train relevant staff members in the proper handling of equipment and production regulations Create a departmental culture of excellence, integrity and collaboration; implement a do the right thing mentality in all interactions Collaborate with production, hygiene and quality teams to ensure seamless operations and alignment of food safety priorities Assist in planning and executing facility upgrades, new equipment installations and layout changes with a focus on efficiency and food safety Evaluate contractor performance to ensure high standards are maintained Act as a cultural bridge between the maintenance department and other teams, ensuring alignment on shared goals and values Take a lead role in breaking down / building up equipment throughout the cleaning cycle Lead and manage daily operations of maintenance within the hygiene department, including scheduling, troubleshooting and repairs. Work closely with the Hygiene Manager to ensuremaintenance of all equipment complies with internal and stakeholder audit procedures. Adopt a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and teamwork with the hygiene department Identify opportunities for improvement in hygiene maintenance process and equipment performance Mentor, train and support the wider hygiene team to encourage excellence. Manage the Equipment Technicians to ensure operational cover at all times. Attend internal meetings to promote highest quality standards of hygiene. Support the delivery of employee wellbeing initiatives. Support the ongoing development of the hygiene team. Build and maintain positive working relationships with employees at all levels across the business. Note: This summary of responsibilities and personal duties is not intended to be exhaustive. The role will develop and change in line with Departmental requirements. Essential Criteria Experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment At least 2-years experience in working within a maintenance role including mechanical / electrical qualifications IT literate proficient in MS package. Exceptional leadership, time management and organisation skills Ability to work as an individual and as part of a team Excellent communicator with the ability to engage at all levels Desirable Criteria Experience of working within the food manufacturing industry Relevant Third Level Qualification (Apprenticeship / University Degree or equivalent) Safety related qualification (IOSH / NEBOSH) Previous experience of people management A degree of flexibility is required to accommodate audits / sickness cover / holiday cover Skills: Maintenance Teamwork Equipment Continuous Improvement Staff Training Benefits: Pension Subsidised canteen Wellbeing Initiatives