Our client, a leading food and beverage company in the Netherlands is looking for a Production Manager to be based out of their site near Leiden. The selected candidate will be responsible for overseeing all stages of the production process within client's manufacturing facility.
Key Responsibilities:
Production Oversight:
- Manage daily production operations to ensure timely and efficient output, meeting production targets and quality standards.
- Implement and monitor production schedules to optimize plant capacity and resource utilization.
- Oversee raw material usage and minimize waste, ensuring efficient use of ingredients and packaging materials.
- Chairing operational performance meetings and participating in strategic leadership consultations and leadership initiatives.
Team Leadership:
- Lead, train, and supervise production staff, including team leaders, line operators, and technicians (approx 10 direct and 175 indirect reports).
- Develop and maintain a positive working environment with a focus on safety, quality, and efficiency.
- Monitor staff performance and provide coaching, feedback, and professional development opportunities.
Process Improvement:
- Identify and implement process improvements to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and ensure consistent product quality.
Inventory & Supply Chain Management:
- Work with the supply chain team to ensure adequate inventory of raw materials and packaging.
- Manage relationships with suppliers and vendors for timely delivery of goods and services.
- Track production metrics such as yield, downtime, and throughput, making adjustments as necessary.
Safety & Compliance:
- Promote a safety-first culture by ensuring all staff are trained on safety protocols and using equipment properly.
- Manage production documentation, including production logs, safety reports, and audit documentation.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or any other technical field.
- 8+ years of experience in production management, preferably in (but not limited to) the food and beverage industry.
- Proven experience in managing production lines and optimizing manufacturing processes.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
- Proficiency in production software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Strong problem-solving abilities with a results-driven mindset.
- Fluency in English and Dutch is necessary.
