Site Director – Food Manufacturing (West Country)

About the role

The business is seeking a senior Operations Director to lead its end‑to‑end manufacturing function during a period of rapid expansion. Reporting to the CEO, you will own the operational function, ensuring sales growth is supported by robust manufacturing execution, strong supply‑chain discipline and best‑in‑class service levels.

Key responsibilities

• Lead all operational matters across food manufacturing and supply chain, ensuring OTIF performance meets retailer expectations.
• Oversee manufacturing to meet food safety, quality and efficiency standards.
• Drive continuous improvement across production planning, inventory management and logistics.
• Own Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) processes to align forecast, capacity and supply.
• Manage operational budgets, cost control and working‑capital performance, including stock and aged WIP.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, hygiene and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with Technical, NPD and Commercial teams to support product launches.
• Lead capital investment planning and operational infrastructure development.
• Develop procurement strategy to protect margin and ensure supply continuity.
• Recruit, develop and mentor high‑performing operational teams and implement lean manufacturing best practices.

Required profile

• Degree educated in engineering, food manufacturing, supply chain or a related discipline.
• 10+ years’ experience in food manufacturing or FMCG production environments.
• Deep understanding of ambient food production and co‑manufacturing models.
• Proven experience managing retailer‑facing supply chains.
• Senior operations leadership experience with a track record of delivering safe, compliant, high‑quality food products.

Required skills

• S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning)
• Lean manufacturing
• Food safety compliance
• Procurement and supplier performance management
• Supply chain management

What we offer

• Salary £100,000‑130,000 per year
• Car allowance
• Performance bonus
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Relocation assistance