Job Description
Who We Are
School Yard Kitchen is an award-winning social enterprise based in East Dunbartonshire that makes artisan jams, sauces, honey, condiments and chocolates. As we grow and expand our products into mainstream retailers and wholesalers we are looking to add to our team.
Although a small company we are a forward thinking company, priding ourselves on innovative ways of working. Our purpose however is not primarily about generating profit but about using the money we make to address some of the barriers and inequalities people face in Scotland and our partner country Ghana.
We are looking for someone who like us works with passion, individuality and quality.
About you
As a community oriented business we are looking for people who can come and join our journey who share the same passion and enthusiasm for quality whilst also being interested in righting some of the wrongs in our world. If you are someone who has a great attention to detail and dedication to ensuring all our products leave our kitchen on time at the highest standard, we would love to hear more from you.
As our Food Production Operations Manager you will be the heart of our brand and ensure that you give your all to ensure our customers receive the best quality product every time. You will lead and manage the production team and produce high quality and large volumes of products for our customers across the UK and beyond.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
As the Operations Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the process, from planning and scheduling to ensuring efficient operations and maintaining product quality. This is a hands on, factory floor role and you will lead a team of production staff, manage resources effectively, and work closely with other departments to meet production targets.
This role isn't for those looking to coast and simply just 'get by' - you will be ambitious in your leadership plans to ensure that the Unit is running at full capacity whilst ensuring people development and long-term improvements on site are being made.
Key Responsibilities:
Procurement & Supply Chain Management
* Source and procure fresh and frozen ingredients to support production schedules.
* Build and maintain relationships with suppliers to ensure consistency of quality, cost, and delivery.
* Manage incoming deliveries and ensure all ingredients meet quality standards.
Stock Control & Storage Optimisation
* Monitor and maintain appropriate stock levels of raw materials and packaging.
* Implement systems for accurate stock tracking, rotation, and minimising waste.
* Maximise storage efficiency within limited space, ensuring proper organisation and compliance with food safety standards.
Workflow & Facility Management
* Plan and organise production schedules to meet demand efficiently.
* Optimise workspace layout and time management to maximise output safely.
* Ensure all production activities comply with health, safety, and hygiene standards.
* Ensure the logistics and dispatching of all orders are delivered on time and on budget.
Team & Shift Management
* Line manages a small production team, including overseeing daily operations.
* Create and manage rotas, ensuring appropriate staffing levels across shifts.
* Provide training, supervision, and performance feedback to ensure a motivated and capable team.
* Oversee multiple production lines to minimise downtime and maximise efficiency.
* Act as the main liaison for coordinating orders and ensuring alignment with production programs.
* Develop and mentor team members across all functions including food preparation, food production, bottling, labelling, packing and dispatching
* Ensure regular communication with the sales team to allow for future production scheduling and development of new productions
* Liaise with colleagues in Chocolate production to share resources and ensure all orders are fulfilled.
* Maintain overall responsibility for the warehousing of all stock and finished goods ensuring the storage environment is conducive to maintaining a premium product throughout the entire logistical process of producer to warehouse to customer
Culinary Standards & Skills Transfer
* Apply professional kitchen skills including knife work, mise en place, and portion control to improve workflow consistency.
* Train and upskill the team in food preparation techniques, hygiene practices, and the safe use of equipment.
* Ensure repeatable, high-quality execution of recipes, including the preserving and pouring process, seasoning and flavour balancing.
* Maintain high culinary standards throughout production to align with the brand’s focus on quality and innovation.
Requirements:
* Proven experience in a food production or kitchen management role, preferably involving fresh produce.
* Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritise under pressure.
* Experience in procurement, stock control, and space/resource optimisation.
* Confident managing a small team, including rota planning and shift oversight.
* Excellent communication and leadership skills.
* A proactive, hands-on approach with a commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
* Professional kitchen experience, with the ability to pass on culinary skills and ensure consistency in product preparation.