Preparation Manager - Leading Food Production Business - Slough
Are you ready to take the next step in your career with an industry-leading food production business? This role as a Preparation Manager offers a competitive salary of £35-40k per year, working day shifts from Sunday to Thursday.
Why Consider This Role?
As a Preparation Manager, you will have the unique chance to lead and shape the daily preparation and pre-production processes. This position not only offers a competitive salary but also places you at the heart of a dynamic and supportive team. You will have the opportunity to drive continuous improvement, ensuring that all tasks are carried out efficiently, safely, and in alignment with company standards.
Key Responsibilities:
Operations Management:
- Oversee preparation and mixing processes, ensuring adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Manage the receipt, segregation, and storage of ingredients from low care to high care areas per allergen management standards.
- Ensure ingredients and mixes are correctly stored, labelled, and issued to production in line with the production plan.
- Monitor and minimise ingredient waste, maintaining accurate records in the Weekly Waste Sheet.
- Conduct end-of-day stock checks, ensuring FIFO procedures are applied and records are updated.
- Use Food Management Systems (FMS) for reporting raw material and mix requirements and to manage daily tasks effectively.
- Collaborate with the NPD team to address raw material and packaging challenges for new product launches.
Team Leadership:
- Lead, manage, and develop the Prep Team, including training, delegation of daily tasks, and monitoring KPIs.
- Build a positive team environment and ensure clear communication with production managers, line supervisors, and other teams.
- Plan and manage the weekly staff roster to ensure adequate coverage.
- Conduct spot checks on SOP compliance and provide guidance as needed.
Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement:
- Investigate discrepancies in raw material usage and perform root cause analysis to resolve issues.
- Identify areas for operational improvement and implement changes to optimise efficiency.
- Report non-conformances and liaise with the Technical and Operations teams to maintain high food safety standards.
Health & Safety and Hygiene:
- Maintain high levels of hygiene and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
- Ensure team adherence to "clean as you go" policies and use of PPE.
- Report any equipment damage, incidents, or near misses promptly to senior management.
- Oversee the proper handling and training for equipment and tools, ensuring team compliance with safety protocols.
Culture & Mission:
- Foster a culture of respect, teamwork, and continuous improvement within the Prep Team.
- Uphold company values and policies while maintaining a high standard of work ethics.
Key Skills & Requirements:
- Experience: At least 2 years in a food manufacturing or high-risk production environment, preferably in a leadership role.
- Leadership: Proven ability to manage, train, and motivate a team to achieve operational goals.
- Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of allergen management, traceability, and food safety standards.
- Communication: Excellent communication and organisational skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Teams, etc.).
- Problem Solving: Analytical mindset with the ability to conduct root cause analysis and implement effective solutions.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and handle heavy ingredients using safe practices and assist with team lifting when required.
This is a remarkable chance to advance your career as a Preparation Manager within a leading food production business. Apply now to be part of a team that values excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.