Interim Production Manager

Interim Production Manager
Privately Owned FMCG Manufacturer
Recruiting via Alexander Steele Recruitment

Alexander Steele Recruitment is partnering with a well-established, privately owned FMCG manufacturing business to identify an experienced Interim Production Manager. This is an excellent opportunity for an operational leader who thrives in fast-paced manufacturing environments and can quickly drive performance, engagement and operational excellence across a high-volume production facility.

The business is seeking a hands-on leader capable of delivering immediate impact, maintaining production performance and supporting the site through a period of operational development and growth.

The Role
This position offers responsibility for the day-to-day management of manufacturing operations within a busy FMCG production environment. You will lead production teams, ensure operational targets are achieved and drive continuous improvement initiatives across safety, quality, service and cost.
Working closely with senior leadership and cross-functional departments, you'll provide visible leadership on the shop floor whilst ensuring production plans are delivered efficiently and safely. The business operates within a demanding manufacturing environment and requires an individual who can quickly assess challenges, implement practical solutions and maintain high standards of operational performance.

Key Responsibilities
• Lead manufacturing operations to deliver daily, weekly and monthly production targets
• Manage and develop production supervisors, team leaders and operational teams across multiple shifts
• Drive improvements in productivity, efficiency, labour utilisation and overall operational performance
• Ensure all manufacturing activities comply with Health & Safety, Quality and company standards
• Lead daily operational reviews, identifying and resolving production challenges to minimise downtime and maximise output
• Work closely with Engineering, Quality, Planning, Supply Chain and Warehouse teams to ensure smooth operational performance
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives focused on waste reduction, process optimisation and operational efficiency
• Monitor and manage key operational KPIs including output, downtime, waste, quality and service levels
• Support change management initiatives and contribute to the site's ongoing operational improvement strategy
• Foster a culture of accountability, engagement and high performance throughout the production function

About You
• Demonstrable experience in a Production Manager, Manufacturing Manager, Operations Manager, or Interim Production Manager position within an FMCG manufacturing environment
• Proven experience leading large operational teams within a fast-paced manufacturing setting
• Strong understanding of automated production processes and operational performance management
• Proven track record of improving productivity, efficiency, quality and team performance
• Excellent people leadership skills with experience managing shift-based operations
• Strong knowledge of Health & Safety, Quality Systems and manufacturing best practice
• Commercially aware with an understanding of operational costs, efficiencies, and customer service requirements
• Highly organised, results-focused and comfortable operating in a dynamic environment
• Confident communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the business

Working Pattern
This is an interim assignment with flexibility around contract duration depending on business requirements. Full-time presence on site is preferred given the operational nature of the role.
This opportunity would suit an experienced FMCG operations leader seeking a highly visible role where they can make an immediate impact, lead teams through change and deliver sustainable operational improvements.

For more information, please contact Alexander Steele Recruitment in confidence.