Production Manager – Veg Packhouse
Job objective
As the Production Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring the efficient and high-quality processing, packing, and dispatch of fresh produce to meet customer expectations and internal targets. Also, you will ensure raw material utilization is always done correctly, keeping vigilance on the traceability of all the products from preparation to dispatch and the mass balance and traceability. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, planning, and operational expertise, with a passion for maintaining quality and optimizing team performance in a fast-paced environment.
Your tasks and responsibilities
- Manage daily packhouse activities, ensuring timely and efficient packing aligned with production goals and quality standards
- Oversee the quality of produce throughout the process to ensure only top-grade vegetables are packed for distribution.
- Lead, train, and support a diverse workforce to foster productivity and maintain a positive, safe working environment.
- Track and report on production metrics, inventory levels, and staff performance, addressing any issues promptly
- Enforce health and safety standards to safeguard employees and maintain regulatory compliance
- Monitor packhouse expenses to ensure cost efficiency and budget adherence.
- Ensure adequate availability and usage of packing materials and consumables during production shifts.
- Work with maintenance teams to ensure all equipment is operational and preventative maintenance schedules are followed.
- Partner with QA and Technical teams to ensure readiness for internal and external audits and site visits.
Your profile
- A diploma or degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Food Science, Production Management, or a related field
- Certification in Food Safety, HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points), or related hygiene and safety protocols would be an added advantage.
- At least 5 years of experience in packhouse or production management, preferably in the fresh produce or agribusiness sector.
- Strong working knowledge of post-harvest handling, quality standards, and food safety regulations.
- Proven experience in managing and coordinating staff, equipment, and raw material flow within a factory setting.
- Good command of the English language, both verbal and written.
- Proficiency in planning daily production based on raw material forecasts, opening stocks, and projected demand.
- Understanding of raw material flow, stock rotation (FIFO system), and traceability processes in a production environment.
- Excellent Leadership skills and management skills
- Analytical mindset, excellent interpersonal and communication skills and team player facilitating cross-functional collaboration.