General Manager - Food Manufacturing

Our client is in search of a dynamic and visionary General Manager to lead their premium snack manufacturing operations. This pivotal role requires a leader with an operational focus, coupled with commercial and financial acumen. The ideal candidate will be well-versed in lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies, with a relentless commitment to driving growth and achieving ambitious targets. If you are ready to take on the challenge of doubling our turnover within the next five years while maintaining a steadfast focus on health and safety, quality, people, and cost reduction, we want to hear from you. The owner is looking for someone who is commercially focused with experience in growing businesses forward into new markets with the support of sales and marketing professionals.

Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership:

• Lead and oversee all aspects of manufacturing operations, ensuring the highest standards of efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to optimise production processes, reduce waste, and increase throughput.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, driving initiatives to enhance operational excellence and productivity.
• Monitor, review and reshape key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and identify opportunities for optimisation.
  
  Commercial Strategy:

• Develop and execute strategic initiatives in tandem with the Commercial Lead to drive revenue growth and market expansion, in line with our goal of doubling turnover within five years.
• Identify new market opportunities and develop innovative product offerings to meet consumer demand.
• Collaborate closely with the Commercial Lead to develop and implement effective go-to-market strategies.
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers and distributors to optimize costs and ensure favourable terms.

• Financial Management:

• Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial plans to achieve growth targets and maximise profitability.
• Monitor financial performance against targets, identifying risks and opportunities, and taking corrective actions as necessary.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and efficiency improvements to enhance margins and operational efficiency.
• Prepare financial reports and presentations for stakeholders.

• Health and Safety, Quality, People, and Cost Reduction:

• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and best practices, maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.
• Drive a culture of quality excellence, implementing rigorous quality control measures and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Implement strategies to reduce costs while maintaining product quality and operational efficiency.

Requirements:

• Proven experience 10 years in a senior leadership role within the food manufacturing industry, with a track record of driving growth and operational excellence.
• Strong grounding in lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement methodologies, and operational best practices.
• Demonstrated commercial acumen, with experience in developing and executing strategic growth initiatives.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams towards common goals.
• Commitment to health and safety, quality, people development, and cost reduction.
• Growth mindset with a proven ability to drive change and achieve ambitious targets.

What we offer you in return:

• Highly competitive salary
• Car allowance
• On target bonus
• Generous pension contribution
• Range of corporate benefits
• A great local food company