Overview
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Operations Manager to join our Ruskington site, playing a key role as part of the Senior Leadership Team. This role is at the heart of our Operations, leading production teams to deliver excellence in efficiency, quality, food safety, and people development. As Operations Manager, you’ll take ownership of all operational areas on site, ensuring that performance targets are met while driving a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and collaboration. You’ll inspire and develop your team of managers, creating a high-performing, agile workforce ready to meet the challenges of a fast-paced FMCG environment. Reporting to: Site Director.
Location: Ruskington • Status: Full-time • Department: Operations
What You’ll Do
* Lead the operational teams to deliver KPIs across output, quality, food safety, efficiency, and cost.
* Drive continuous improvement across all processes, embedding best practices such as 5S and Lean methodologies.
* Champion Health & Safety, ensuring compliance and fostering a culture where “Safety is a Condition.”
* Take ownership of quality and food safety, actively participating in audits, HACCP reviews, and customer visits.
* Manage budgets and resources effectively, identifying opportunities to reduce costs and maximise yields.
* Motivate, coach, and develop your managers, ensuring the right people with the right skills are in the right roles.
* Build strong relationships with customers, regulators, and internal stakeholders across HR, Finance, Engineering, Technical, Supply Chain, and Sales.
* Ensure the site is always “audit ready” through strong general manufacturing practices and proactive problem-solving.
What We’re Looking For
* A proven track record in managing large-scale manufacturing or production operations.
* Excellent leadership, coaching, and people development skills.
* The ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, changing environment.
* Knowledge of efficiency drivers, cost control, and continuous improvement tools (e.g. 5S, Lean).
* Strong commercial awareness, including product costing and budgetary management.
* A collaborative style with the ability to influence and challenge at all levels.
Qualifications
* Degree level or equivalent.
* Food Safety, HACCP, IOSH Managing Safely, TACCP training.
Why join us?
* Play a key leadership role in one of the UK’s leading food businesses.
* Be part of a values-driven culture that puts quality, safety, and people at its heart.
* Work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same.
* Lead and inspire teams to deliver real results and shape the future of our Ruskington site.
Perks & Benefits At Pilgrim’s Europe
* Competitive salary
* 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays).
* Company pension scheme with contributions.
* Wellbeing support.
* Access to learning and leadership development programmes.
* Staff discounts on our products.
* A culture that values ownership, determination, and collaboration.
Ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? Join Pilgrim’s Europe at Ruskington and help us deliver operational excellence, inspire our teams, and shape the future of food. Apply now and make your impact.
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