Head of Operations

We’re recruiting a commercially minded and hands-on Head of Operations to lead the day-to-day running of a growing food and drink manufacturing facility in Farnham.This is a senior leadership position covering the full production operation, from manufacturing and bottling through to warehousing. You’ll combine strategic planning with a visible presence on the factory floor, ensuring products are manufactured safely, efficiently and to the highest standards.Key ResponsibilitiesLead daily production operations across all shifts, ensuring labour, equipment and materials are used efficientlyPlan production alongside the supply chain team to meet customer demand and manage capacityLead and develop a large, multi-disciplinary production teamTroubleshoot operational issues and lead problem-solving directly on the factory floorMaintain high standards across food safety, quality, HACCP, GMP and health and safetyImplement continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste, improve efficiency and increase outputManage labour efficiency, overtime, production costs and operational budgetsDevelop and monitor KPIs covering output, waste, downtime and service levelsSupport recruitment, onboarding and training across the production teamWork closely with Planning, Purchasing, Quality and LogisticsSupport the continued growth and scaling of the manufacturing operationAbout YouSignificant experience in a senior production or operations leadership role within food or drink manufacturingProven experience managing end-to-end manufacturing operations across multiple departmentsStrong track record of leading and developing large, shift-based teamsExperience driving continuous improvement and improving manufacturing efficiencyConfident managing production KPIs, labour costs and operational budgetsStrong knowledge of HACCP, GMP and food safety legislationExperience supporting customer, regulatory or third-party auditsA visible, hands-on leader who is equally comfortable on the factory floor and working with senior leadershipCalm under pressure, commercially aware and solutions focusedA degree in Business Management, Food Science, Engineering or a related subject is required, alongside a Level 3 or higher HACCP or food safety qualification. An IOSH Managing Safely qualification or equivalent would be advantageous.A full UK driving licence is also required.This is an excellent opportunity to take ownership of a growing manufacturing operation and play a key role in developing its people, processes and future capabilities.