Operations Leader - The Role
Fresh People are recruiting on behalf of a leading fresh produce operation based in West Kent near Tonbridge specialising in the grading, ripening, packing, and supply of fruit to major UK retailers.
Due to continued expansion and growth, two Operations Leaders are required to join the production leadership team within a high-volume, fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
This is a strong opportunity for experienced operational leaders looking to take on a visible leadership role within a progressive business.
The Role
As an Operations Leader, you will be responsible for leading production teams to deliver the production plan in the most efficient way while maintaining the highest standards of quality, food safety, and health & safety.
You will play a key role in embedding a first time right culture and driving performance across people, process, and product KPIs.
Key Responsibilities
Manage and lead Health & Safety and Food Safety standards across production
Ensure effective utilisation and management of labour to deliver production plans
Build, develop, and maintain an engaged production team
Conduct colleague reviews and manage performance
Deliver company briefings and communications as required
Ensure all documentation is accurate, compliant, and audit-ready
Manage team performance against defined KPIs including quality, safety, and efficiency
Undertake investigations where required and support corrective actions
Analyse production data to identify improvement opportunities and implement positive change
About You
Proven experience in an operational or production leadership role within fresh produce, food manufacturing, or FMCG
Strong people leadership and team development skills
Confident managing KPIs, performance, and continuous improvement
Good understanding of food safety, quality, and H&S standards
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, time-critical production environment
Flexible to work a 4 on / 4 off shift pattern, including extended hours during peak periods
Working Hours
4 on / 4 off shift pattern
8am 8pm
Standard working day is 10 hours
12-hour shifts required during peak seasonal periods
How to Apply
If you have the relevant experience and are looking for your next leadership opportunity within a fresh produce or food manufacturing environment, we would be keen to hear from you. Please apply with your CV, and a member of the Fresh People team will be in touch to discuss the role in confidence.
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