Head of Operations & Supply Chain

 
Following a significant round of investment and multiple major contract wins, we are supporting a high-profile Norfolk based food business in their search for a Head of Operations and Supply Chain. This is a newly created role that will report directly to the CEO, working closely together to double factory output by the end of 2023.  
 
With a state of the art manufacturing facility, the business has all the tools to expand and needs a proven Operational leader to establish a robust Supply Chain function and take ownership of the running of the factory.
 
We are looking for a commercially astute operations professional that will ensure control of all operational performance. You will establish both medium term and longer-term strategic plans for Manufacturing Operations and Logistics. This will be achieved through monitoring key performance indicators across costs, quality, food safety and service level targets. 
 
With the strategic plan forecasting significant growth, this role offers the successful candidate genuine professional and personal growth opportunities with scope to move into a Board position. You will receive a competitive package, including the potential of share options.  
  
Key accountabilities: 

• Responsible for all production operations performance relating to manufacturing, and warehousing.
• Work with the customers and colleagues, to ensure that there is a clear written development brief for new product development projects.
• Work in collaboration with Quality and Technical teams on the development products which meet the agreed development brief.
• Promote and adhere to the health and safety agenda in line with company standards.
• Facilitate production trials for products being developed and document the outcome of such trials, distribute reports as necessary.
• Manage and deliver company cost base targets.
• Ensure appropriate service and quality levels are delivered in line with key business objectives and specifications.
• Assess the risks to food safety, compliance and legality and ensure systems are in place to maintain and comply with both including HACCP procedures.
• Liaise with the business and co manufacturer ensuring that there is a full understanding of the status of all projects, placing particular emphasis on realistic timescales.
• Provide support to procurement relating to relevant supplier (raw and packaging material) controls. 

• Comprehensive technical understanding of production techniques, food products, packaging, and processes. An understanding of 6 sigma and 5S would be an advantage.
• Demonstrable success in the food industry in a Manufacturing Operations role.
• Proven experience of establishing a robust Supply Chain function within an FMCG business
• Computer literate, proficient in excel and word elements of MS office suite of software.
• Naturally enthusiastic and self-motivated with a natural ability to manage and motivate the team.
• Committed, disciplined, and well organised.
• Accurate and timely reporting skills.
• Able to communicate, build and maintain mutually rewarding relationships with people at all levels of the business internally and external.
• A creative and imaginative outlook – ability to ‘think outside the norms’.
• Professional approach with strong commercial acumen.