About The Business
Dewlay Cheesemakers is a third-generation family run cheesemaking business based in Garstang, Lancashire. The Company produces and packs a range of Award-winning cheeses from its “Best in Class” facility for a range of UK and oversees customers. To meet further business growth, we are now looking to further add to our leadership team with the recruitment of a Head of Operations.
Job Role
Forming a key part of the senior management team, the Head of Operations will help shape and influence an innovative family run business built on a strong family culture.
This pivotal role will drive operational excellence within the manufacturing and packing process, to ensure it continues to run smoothly, profitably and successfully.
Reporting directly to the Managing Directors the Head of Operations will act as a senior point of contact between different operational departments, coordinating communication and collaboration to ensure that the business functions as a cohesive and integrated entity.
The varied role will also help implement the organization’s strategic goals and provide guidance and support in executing complex project management and capital expenditure.
Main Tasks and Responsibilities
* Building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, partners, and employees, to ensure that their needs and expectations are met.
* Foster a culture of continuous improvement by actively identifying opportunities for operational enhancement within the sites cheese production and packing facility.
* Efficiently manage resources, including raw materials, manpower and equipment to meet production goals and quality targets while controlling costs.
* Implement best practice and enhance production efficiency, yield and product quality.
* Oversee and manage the production and packing operations to meet customer service levels, ensuring maximum efficiency and profitability.
* Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of production managers and supervisors, fostering a culture of quality excellence and right first time.
* Oversee onsite visits, showcasing the company’s cheesemaking heritage to potential or existing customers or stakeholders.
* Assist in HR issues such as disciplinary and annual performance reviews.
* Ensure strict adherence to all relevant health and safety and environmental regulations, and champion sustainability initiatives within the production process.
* Carry out trials and R&D across the cheese manufacturing and packaging process.
* Key involvement in the commissioning of new equipment across the site such as packing lines & dairy equipment.
* Manage quality assurance issues in conjunction with the Technical Manager
What you’ll bring to the role
* Previous experience in food operational management is essential.
* Excellent “hands‑on leadership skills” with the ability to motivate and inspire a team.
* Manage internal and external stakeholders.
* Process orientated with the ability to identify, resolve, and escalate problems where necessary.
* Be results driven and commercially minded.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Knowledge of quality assurance standards, food safety, and regulatory compliance.
* Commitment to driving industry‑leading performance
Package
Competitive remuneration package and benefits, which is reflective of this full‑time senior role.
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