Production Manager

Production / Factory Manager - People Leadership, Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence Braintree, Essex | crica £50,000 + Benefits Monday to Friday | 6:00 am - 2:00 pm Are you a hands-on Production/Factory Manager who thrives on developing people, driving high standards, and building a culture of continuous improvement? Our client is a well-established, highly respected manufacturing business with a long-standing reputation for quality, reliability, and customer service. As part of their ongoing growth plans, they are seeking a Production Manager to lead, develop and inspire their production team while driving improvements across performance, efficiency and operational standards. This is a fantastic opportunity for a strong people leader who enjoys being visible on the shop floor, coaching teams, improving processes and creating an environment where individuals and teams can perform at their best. The Role Reporting to the Head of Operations, you will lead a production operation of approximately 40 employees, including two Shift Managers and agency labour as required. While operational performance is strong, the business is looking for a leader who can elevate standards, strengthen frontline leadership, improve accountability and develop a culture of continuous improvement throughout the operation. You will spend significant time on the shop floor, building relationships with the team, coaching managers and supervisors, identifying opportunities for improvement and ensuring production, quality and safety standards are consistently achieved. Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and develop production teams to deliver high levels of performance and engagement
• Coach and support Shift Managers to strengthen leadership capability and accountability
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement across the operation
• Improve operational standards, consistency and adherence to processes
• Identify opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency and labour utilisation
• Reduce waste and drive operational improvements through data and performance analysis
• Lead Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing initiatives
• Monitor and improve OEE, productivity and key operational KPIs
• Update and improve standard operating procedures and work instructions
• Ensure compliance with quality, food safety, health and safety standards
• Support future automation, efficiency and growth initiatives
• Create a positive, high-performing culture focused on teamwork, communication and development About You We would like to hear from Production Managers who have:
• Proven experience leading teams within a manufacturing, production, FMCG or packaging environment
• A strong track record of developing people and improving team performance
• Experience driving operational standards and continuous improvement activities
• Good understanding of OEE, productivity, efficiency and manufacturing KPIs
• Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing and process improvement initiatives
• A visible, hands-on management style with excellent communication skills
• The ability to influence, motivate and engage teams at all levels Packaging experience would be highly advantageous, although candidates from other fast-paced manufacturing environments will also be considered. What's in it for You?
• Monday to Friday working pattern (6:00am - 2:00pm)
• Opportunity to lead an established team and make a visible impact
• Supportive and approachable leadership team
• Stable and growing business with long-term investment plans
• Genuine opportunity to shape culture, standards and operational performance
• High-profile role with significant influence across the operation
• Career growth and future leadership development opportunities