Shift Manager - Fresh Produce Manufacturing | West Sussex | Salary: Negotiable.
We're hiring on behalf of a powerhouse in the UK's fresh produce industry - a high-energy, high-output operation that keeps shelves stocked at major retailers across the country. This is a business where speed meets precision, and where your leadership can shape the day. If you're the Shift Manager who thrives amongst the buzz, making fast decisions, motivating teams, and driving performance, this is your chance to step into a role where your impact is felt from the factory floor to the boardroom.
Why This Role Stands Out
* Big operation, big impact: 17 packing lines, 300+ operatives per shift, and a product range with high SKU complexity
* Leadership: You'll lead a team of 15 direct reports and be pivotal in daily operations meetings
* Support: The CEO is on the ground - decisions are fast, and your voice matters
* Seasonal scale-up: Peak season (March-August) brings intensity, variety, and opportunity to shine
The Role
As Shift Manager, you'll take full ownership of production performance on your shift - ensuring safety, quality, and efficiency are never compromised. You'll work alongside another Shift Manager on opposite shifts and report directly to the Group Supply Chain Manager.
Your day-to-day will include:
* Leading and motivating a large team across manual and semi-automated packing lines
* Managing shift planning, resource allocation, and reacting to live production demands
* Running the 15:00 daily operations meeting - your insight will shape the day's success
* Collaborating with Engineering, Technical, Logistics, and agency partners (including Pro-Force)
* Driving compliance, audit readiness, and continuous improvement initiatives
* Coaching and developing your team through 1-2-1s, appraisals, and succession planning
What You'll Bring
* Proven leadership in FMCG, food manufacturing, or high-volume production
* Experience managing large teams and complex SKU environments
* Technically astute with a strong grasp of audit prep, quality control, and H&S compliance
* Resilience under pressure and the ability to pivot quickly in a flexible environment
* A Lean mindset and a hunger to improve processes and performance
* Strong communication skills and the ability to influence across departments
The Package
* Salary: Negotiable.
* 12-hour shifts (06:15-17:45).
* Career progression in a growing, forward-thinking business
* A collaborative, boots-on-the-ground leadership culture
* Free on-site parking.
* Standard pension contribution.
If this role leaves you wanting to know more about the company, the culture or anything else, feel free to apply to this advert or email me at for a confidential chat.
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