Production Manager Cheese: (Natural Cheese, Processed Cheese, Cheese Packing & Ice Cream)

Job Description Key Performance Areas:

• Take overall responsibility for the Natural Cheese, Processed Cheese and Cheese Packing manufacturing facilities.
• Ensure production targets, yields, efficiencies and waste-reduction objectives are achieved.
• Maintain GMP standards, housekeeping, product quality and food safety requirements across all cheese manufacturing areas.
• Maintain a safe working environment and ensure compliance with all Health and Safety regulations.
• Provide strong leadership, clear communication and effective day-to-day management of production teams.
• Develop strong teams and transfer skills to employees through coaching, training and good leadership.
• Plan and manage production activities to ensure adherence to production schedules, product specifications and quality standards.
• Collaborate with purchasing, supply chain, engineering and quality teams to ensure the availability of raw materials, packaging, equipment and resources required for production.
• Implement production strategies to optimise resources, reduce costs and maximise output efficiency without compromising quality or food safety.
• Develop and oversee production schedules, ensuring the efficient allocation of labour, equipment and materials to meet customer demand.
• Assess and manage production risks by identifying bottlenecks, process deviations or issues that may impact timelines, yields or product quality.
• Monitor and analyse production data, identify trends and implement corrective actions to improve overall production performance.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, environmental, quality and food safety requirements, taking appropriate action to mitigate risks.
• Lead, coach and manage production staff, including guidance, training, performance management and employee engagement initiatives.
• Work with the engineering department to evaluate and implement new technologies, equipment upgrades and process improvements that enhance production capability.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging innovation, identifying process optimisation opportunities and implementing best practices.

Knowledge and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Operations/Production Management, Supply chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, a relevant Dairy qualification or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years' proven experience in a production management role within the manufacturing industry, preferably within dairy, cheese or a related food manufacturing environment.
• Sound decision-making skills and the ability to solve problems effectively.
• Disciplined, reliable and able to work well under pressure.
• Excellent attention to detail and a strong focus on quality, safety and operational standards.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, develop and guide teams.
• Commitment to adhering to Woodlands Dairy policies, procedures and values.
• Willingness to work overtime when required to meet operational demands.