Production Manager – Bakery

About the role

We are seeking a Production Manager to lead the bakery operations of a historic, family‑owned food manufacturer that supplies traditional pastry products to major UK retailers. You will be responsible for the end‑to‑end production process, overseeing around 40 staff across multiple lines and ensuring high‑quality output that meets food safety and regulatory standards.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate production and packaging operations to achieve quality and output targets.
• Plan and deliver production schedules aligned with demand, resources, and maintenance requirements.
• Implement continuous‑improvement and lean initiatives to boost efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance performance.
• Maintain compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety standards.

Required profile

• 5+ years of production or manufacturing leadership experience in the food sector.
• Demonstrable experience in a bakery environment, preferably with pastry products.
• Strong understanding of food safety audits and compliance frameworks.
• Proven ability to engage, develop, and motivate teams.

Required skills

• Lean manufacturing
• Continuous improvement methodologies

What we offer

• Negotiable salary (DOE)
• 33 days holiday
• Enhanced company pension
• Monday‑Friday, days‑only schedule