An opportunity has arisen for a Production Manager to join our Operations Team based in Dartford. We are looking for an experienced manager who is able to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the day and night Packhouse Operations. The Production Manager is also responsible for managing technical issues with customers and suppliers, and preparing for and managing external audits.

Watts Farms is a family run business which covers 10 sites in Kent, Essex and Bedfordshire with more than 350 employees. This role is based within the Food Service division of the business, which supplies over 500 restaurants with produce in the South East and London region.

The key responsibilities of the Production Manager will include but not be limited to the following:

• Accountable for leading and developing the Packhouse Management Team to ensure they are adhering to HACCP and Watts Farms Operating Procedures, including personal safety and the safety of others, Food Safety and product traceability, plant and equipment usage, and waste management.
• Monitor daily performance of the Packhouse team and drive efficiency.
• Identify areas of under performance and provide support and coaching to supervisors where needed on how to resolve these issues.
• Monitor KPI data and present findings to Senior Management Team on a weekly basis. Proactively find ways to improve KPI data and mitigate errors.
• Liaise with other departments with respect to production queries and other information requests.
• Oversee the weekly staffing rota and ensure there are no shortages in production staff.
• Liaise with Payroll regarding staff hours or pay queries.
• Represent the company on technical issues with customers and suppliers.
• Produce and maintain the companies Quality Assurance Manual.
• Prepare and manage external audits, working alongside the group Technical Manager to en-sure compliance.

What are we looking for?
• Production management experience in a fast paced and target driven environment is essential.
• Proven experience of managing a large team who work day and night shifts.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines, while ensuring Operating Procedures are followed.
• Excellent leadership, problem solving and organisational skills.
• Understanding of targets and KPI’s.
• Ability to suggest and implement new ideas to increase Packhouse efficiency and ensure BRC requirements are met on a daily basis.
• Excellent IT skills including MS Office (intermediate level Excel is essential).
• High level of written and verbal communication.
• Flexible and adaptable in approach to work with the ability to multi-task.

Hours:
8.30am – 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. You will be required to work a minimum of one night shift per month and be flexible with your working hours during seasonal peaks.

What can we offer you:
• Salary - £30,000-40,000 dependent on experience
• Training and development opportunities.
• 31 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays.
• Staff discounts.