deputy production manager

Job Overview:

As the Deputy Production Manager, you will be responsible for assisting the Production Manager and Factory Director in overseeing the entire production process. You will manage labour and material resources to meet Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) while ensuring high standards of quality, food safety, and workplace safety. This role requires you to work under the direction of the Factory Director and provide regular updates on progress. Strong leadership, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to drive continuous improvements in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment are essential for this position. Key Responsibilities:

1. Production Management:
• Production Planning: Assist in developing and managing daily, weekly, and monthly production schedules to meet customer demand efficiently. Ensure that production processes run smoothly, and production targets are consistently met.
• Workflow Optimization: Oversee production operations to identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement. Make adjustments to improve productivity and maintain a steady workflow across shifts.
• Equipment Maintenance: Ensure that production equipment is maintained and in good working order. Coordinate with maintenance teams to handle repairs and reduce downtime.

2. Leadership & Team Coordination:
• Team Leadership: Lead and supervise the production team, ensuring they are aligned with daily production goals. Provide guidance and support to staff to ensure effective teamwork and clear communication.
• Collaboration with Other Departments: Work with other departments, such as quality control, procurement, and logistics, to ensure smooth communication and coordination of resources needed for production.
• Employee Training: Provide on-the-job training for production staff to improve skills and ensure compliance with safety procedures and production standards. Support new employees during onboarding.

3. Production Efficiency & Cost Management:
• Resource Management: Ensure the efficient use of labour, materials, and machinery to meet production targets while minimizing waste. Monitor resource allocation and make adjustments as needed to maintain productivity.
• Cost Control: Implement basic cost-saving measures, such as minimizing material wastage and optimizing labour hours. Regularly review production processes for ways to reduce costs without sacrificing quality.
• KPI Monitoring: Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as production output, material usage, and waste levels. Use this data to make decisions that improve overall production efficiency.

4. Quality Control & Food Safety:
• Maintain Quality Standards: Ensure that products meet quality standards and customer expectations. Address any quality issues promptly by identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
• Food Safety Compliance: Make sure that the production team follows all food safety regulations, including HACCP and GMP guidelines. Conduct regular checks to ensure a clean and safe working environment.
• Support New Product Launches: Work with R&D and quality teams to support the introduction of new products. Oversee trial runs and ensure that production processes are adjusted as needed for successful integration.

5. Health & Safety Management:
• Enforce Safety Procedures: Ensure that health and safety regulations are followed on the production floor. Conduct safety audits and training to maintain a safe working environment for all employees.
• Incident Management: Respond to and investigate any workplace accidents or incidents. Implement corrective actions to prevent future occurrences and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Promote a Safe Working Environment: Regularly review safety protocols and promote a culture of safety awareness among the production staff.

6. Continuous Improvement & Performance Monitoring:
• Monitor Production Performance: Keep track of production performance and identify areas for improvement. Suggest small-scale changes to processes to improve efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Encourage Continuous Improvement: Lead efforts to improve production processes, focusing on enhancing output and reducing costs. Work closely with the team to identify and implement improvement opportunities.
• Technology Updates: Stay informed about basic production technologies and tools that can help improve efficiency. Recommend any relevant updates or tools that could benefit the production process.

7. Customer Satisfaction & Delivery Management:
• Ensure Timely Deliveries: Oversee the production schedule to ensure that products are manufactured and delivered to customers on time. Work with logistics and sales teams to ensure smooth delivery operations.
• Address Production Issues: Resolve any production-related issues that could impact customer satisfaction, such as delays or quality concerns. Communicate effectively with the customer service team to address and resolve these concerns quickly.

Required Skills and Experience:
• Experience in Food Manufacturing: At least 2 years of experience in chilled/frozen food environments.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead a team, develop talent, and drive them to meet performance targets.
• Problem-Solving: Proven ability to identify and resolve bottlenecks and inefficiencies in the production process.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of food safety standards (HACCP) and health and safety regulations.
• Analytical Skills: Experience in production planning and performance analysis to optimize resources and efficiency.
• Communication: Strong organizational and interpersonal skills, capable of motivating teams and working effectively under pressure.

Desirable Qualifications:
• Educational Background: A degree or relevant qualification in Production Management, Food Science, Engineering, or a related field is preferred but not essential. Equivalent experience will also be considered.
• HACCP Level 3 certification or equivalent.
• IOSH certification for health and safety management.

Working hours: 7am-16pm, Mon-Fri, with the possibility of overtime on weekends, which will be communicated and confirmed in advance.

Salary: £35,000 – £40,000