Job Description

Key Responsibilities:

Production Management:

• Oversee the daily operations of the production floor to ensure that production targets are met within time and cost constraints.
• Plan, schedule, and manage production runs in accordance with customer demand and production capacity.
• Monitor production processes and adjust as needed to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime.
• Coordinate the allocation of resources (e.g., raw materials, labor, and equipment) to meet production needs.

Quality Control and Food Safety:

• Ensure all products meet company and regulatory food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, FDA, ISO, GMP).
• Monitor quality control processes, from raw materials inspection to finished product testing.
• Ensure that all employees follow proper food handling practices and hygiene standards.
• Conduct regular quality assurance inspections to identify and resolve any quality-related issues.
• Work with the Quality Assurance (QA) team to ensure compliance with certifications such as ISO 22000, HACCP, and other relevant food safety regulations.

Staff Management:

• Supervise and lead a team of production staff, including line workers, supervisors, and technicians.
• Hire, train, and develop employees to ensure high levels of performance and compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Conduct performance reviews, provide feedback, and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Foster a positive, safe, and collaborative work environment.

Health and Safety Compliance:

• Implement and enforce workplace health and safety policies and procedures, particularly as they relate to food production.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal health and safety regulations.
• Conduct regular safety audits and ensure that employees are properly trained in safety practices.
• Investigate and resolve workplace incidents, accidents, or safety concerns.

Inventory and Resource Management:

• Oversee inventory management of raw materials, packaging, and finished goods to ensure sufficient supply for production.
• Work with the procurement team to ensure the timely purchase of high-quality ingredients and packaging materials.
• Monitor production yield and material usage to ensure efficient resource utilization and minimize waste.

Cost Control and Budgeting:

• Manage the factory’s budget and ensure production costs are controlled and within established limits.
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve productivity, and increase efficiency without compromising product quality or safety.
• Track labor costs, material costs, and overhead, and report on performance to senior management.

Continuous Improvement and Process Optimization:

• Identify and implement process improvements to optimize production workflows, reduce downtime, and enhance overall efficiency.
• Lead and participate in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, or areas for improvement.
• Work closely with R&D and product development teams to ensure smooth transitions from prototype to mass production.

Regulatory Compliance and Reporting:

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations related to food production and safety.
• Maintain accurate records of production, quality control, and safety procedures for auditing purposes.
• Prepare and submit regular production reports, including output, downtime, safety incidents, and other key performance indicators (KPIs).

Job Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field.
• Certifications in food safety (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000, Food Safety Management) are preferred.

Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Experience in the food and beverage industry, particularly in production or operations.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations, quality assurance, and best practices in food production.
• Familiarity with food production equipment, packaging, and processing techniques.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and people management abilities.
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement techniques.
• Strong understanding of production scheduling, inventory management, and cost control.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ERP systems, and production management software.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

Personal Characteristics:

• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality and food safety.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strong analytical and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to inspire and lead a team to achieve goals and maintain a positive work environment.

Work Environment:

• The Factory Manager will work in a factory environment, which may involve exposure to production lines, machinery, and varying temperature conditions.
• Some overtime may be required to meet production targets or resolve issues.
• The role may involve periodic travel for training, audits, or coordination with suppliers.

Skills