Del Monte is one of the world’s leading vertically integrated producers, marketers and distributors of high-quality fresh and fresh-cut fruit and vegetables, as well as a leading producer and distributor of prepared food across the globe.

The Group is established in more than 100 countries and has nearly 40.000 employees worldwide.

We are looking for a Production Manager to join our team in Wisbech.

Purpose of the role: To effectively coach and develop a pro-active Production team that will strive to achieve, and improve, ongoing business objectives and KPIs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the production processes, manage the day to day production schedule and ensure all production functionality is cost effective.
• Ensure that the production schedule is updated regularly and that any changes to the plan are discussed and agreed in advance with the planning team.
• Raw material stock rotation is adhered to and that measures are in places to maintain acceptable standards of fruit handling.
• All KPI data to be recorded accurately and analysed through adopting Lean manufacturing techniques, in order to communicate, nurture and improve.
• Embrace and encourage a continuous improvement culture and follow through any ideas to conclusion.
• Manage the training process, ensuring all relevant training requirements are planned and carried out effectively in line with company guidelines.
• Adequate levels of skilled operators are maintained, to enable the effective operation of the factory, including succession planning.
• Ensure all HACCP requirements are adhered to in line with the company’s HACCP plan.
• Ensure all finished goods are delivered within the correct quality specifications and checks are in place to ensure adherence.
• To represent the Company in a professional manner with external and internal customers to develop and improve existing and new relationships with both customers and auditors.
• Ensure safe systems of work are carried out at all times and any accidents and incidents are investigated fully in line with company procedures.
• Ensure proactive accident prevention is undertaken using the risk assessment process and action points are dealt with within the agreed timescale.
• Carry out effective team communications to keep all employees informed of the required standards to aid performance improvement.
• Manage and motivate teams in conjunction with the HR department, and within company policy/guidelines.

Knowledge, Skill and Experience requirements:

• Good general education which includes good GCSEs/A levels (or equivalent)
• Excellent numeracy, literacy, and computer skills.
• Good understanding of Lean principles or similar
• Experience in food manufacturing, preferably in a short shelf-life chilled environment
• Proven experience in a similar role including good man management skills, managing a team of direct reports of up to 150 people.
• Strong understanding of production planning and control of KPI’s, specifically labour.
• Understanding of current GMP practices in line with BRC guidelines
• Food Hygiene Certification