We're working on behalf of a major food manufacturing client to recruit a strong, people-focused Department Manager to lead a key operational area on the late shift (2pm-10pm). If you've got proven leadership experience in food production or warehousing, and you're ready to take on a new challenge in a high-volume, fast-paced environment-this could be the opportunity for you.

? The Role

Reporting to the Production Manager, you'll take full ownership of your department during the late shift, ensuring your team hits key KPIs across safety, quality, efficiency, and cost. You'll lead and motivate your team to deliver strong results while promoting a culture of accountability, development, and continuous improvement.

This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll be visible, influential, and right at the heart of operations.

? Key Responsibilities

• Manage your team across the late shift (2pm-10pm), driving daily performance and ensuring all targets are met.

   

• Lead daily shift briefs, allocate workloads, and provide clear direction to your team of supervisors and operatives.

   

• Monitor and report on key metrics such as OEE, downtime, waste, product weights, and labour efficiency.

   

• Identify areas for improvement and implement changes to improve operational output and reduce costs.

   

• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners to ensure compliance and smooth delivery.

   

• Champion food safety, health & safety, and colleague welfare at every level.

   

• Coach and develop your team to build capability and support career progression.

   

? What You'll Need

• Experience as a Department Manager, Shift Manager, or equivalent role in food manufacturing or fresh produce operations.

   

• A strong understanding of production KPIs, cost control, and continuous improvement strategies.

   

• The ability to manage performance under pressure, with a clear focus on achieving results.

   

• Proven people management and coaching skills-you know how to get the best out of your team.

   

• Confident decision-making and problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced setting.

   

• Flexibility to work the late shift (2pm-10pm) on a rotating or fixed basis.

   

? What's in It for You

• Competitive salary + late shift premium

   

• 6 weeks' holiday (including bank holidays)

   

• 15% staff discount in-store from day one, plus an additional 10% for a friend or family member

   

• Career development and progression opportunities within a large, well-structured operation

   

• Access to healthcare benefits including Aviva Digital GP and well-being support

   

• Subsidised staff canteen and free on-site parking

   

• Market-leading pension scheme and life assurance

   

• Employee discounts across retail, cinema, gyms, and more

   

• Enhanced parental/family leave and Long Service Awards

   

If you're ready to lead a key shift in a fast-paced food production environment and have the leadership skills to match, we'd love to speak with you.