Head of Operations - Food Company

Job Description

Banbridge & Lurgan

A rapidly growing food manufacturing business in Northern Ireland is seeking an experienced General Manager to lead the company through an exciting period of expansion, including a major site move within the next 12 months.
This role is ideal for a proven leader who has successfully taken a small-to-medium food business through a significant growth phase, scaling operations while maintaining exceptional product quality and strong commercial performance.

The Opportunity
You will take full responsibility for the strategic and operational management of the business - covering production, sales, marketing, HR, health & safety, compliance, and financial performance. This is a hands-on, senior leadership position where you will work directly with the owners to deliver ambitious growth plans.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and inspire cross-functional teams across multiple sites to deliver on production, quality, and financial targets.
  • Drive operational efficiency, streamline processes, and implement robust systems to support scaling.
  • Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and compliance (HACCP, BRCGS).
  • Manage budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for growth and profitability.
  • Foster a high-performance, positive workplace culture that supports innovation and continuous improvement.
  • Oversee the smooth transition to a new manufacturing site.

What We're Looking For

  • Proven track record in a senior leadership role within the food manufacturing sector.
  • Experience successfully growing a business through major expansion phases.
  • Strong commercial acumen and operational expertise.
  • Exceptional leadership and team management skills.
  • In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and quality assurance standards.
  • Strategic thinker with a hands-on, results-driven approach.

What's on Offer

  • Salary up to six figures for the right candidate
  • The chance to make a transformative impact on a high-potential brand.
  • Supportive leadership team and collaborative culture.
  • Exciting growth journey, including a major new site launch.

If you have the experience, vision, and drive to lead a high-growth food manufacturing business to its next chapter, we'd like to hear from you. Reach out to Jack Groves for a confidential chat.

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