Area Operations Manager (Food Manufacturing)
Location: Wrexham
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salary: Up to £45k DOE
The shift pattern for this role is Monday-Friday, 9-5.
We are recruiting on behalf of one of our valued clients — a specialist manufacturer of award-winning dairy products. We are supporting our client with the search for a highly capable Area Operations Manager to lead factory performance and operational excellence.
The Opportunity
This is a key site leadership role, responsible for driving operational delivery, people performance, safety, and production efficiency across specific manufacturing areas within a fast-paced dairy processing environment. You’ll lead teams to deliver high standards in quality, safety, and output, while fostering a high-performance culture.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead, motivate, and develop multi-disciplinary operational teams.
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Drive performance across safety, manufacturing efficiency, waste reduction, and product quality.
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Ensure daily production schedules are achieved on time and to specification.
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Collaborate closely with Technical, Engineering, Supply Chain, and NPD teams.
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Implement and sustain Continuous Improvement and Lean practices.
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Develop competency, training, and succession planning across the area.
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Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety standards.
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Champion operational excellence through data, coaching, and team engagement.
About You
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Proven experience in Operations or Production Management within food manufacturing (dairy strongly preferred).
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Strong leadership with the ability to influence, coach, and motivate teams.
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Sound understanding of food safety, hygiene, and GMP.
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Excellent communication skills and a proactive, hands-on management style.
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Able to deliver measurable results through people and process improvements.
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Experience with Continuous Improvement, Lean, or similar methodologies