GM - Food Manufacturing - commercially focused

Our client is a well-established family owned Yorkshire food manufacturer – specialising in the luxury savoury snack market. Founded in 2005 our client produces award winning high end savoury snacks with a factory based on the outskirts of Sheffield.

Our client is in search of a dynamic and visionary General Manager to lead their premium snack manufacturing operations. This pivotal role requires a leader with an operational focus, coupled with commercial and financial acumen. The ideal candidate will be well-versed in lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies, with a relentless commitment to driving growth and achieving ambitious targets. If you are ready to take on the challenge of doubling our turnover within the next five years while maintaining a steadfast focus on health and safety, quality, people, and cost reduction, we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities:

1. Operational Leadership:
• Lead and oversee all aspects of manufacturing operations, ensuring the highest standards of efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to optimise production processes, reduce waste, and increase throughput.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, driving initiatives to enhance operational excellence and productivity.
• Monitor, review and reshape key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and identify opportunities for optimisation.

1. Commercial Strategy:
• Develop and execute strategic initiatives in tandem with the Commercial Lead to drive revenue growth and market expansion, in line with our goal of doubling turnover within five years.
• Identify new market opportunities and develop innovative product offerings to meet consumer demand.
• Collaborate closely with the Commercial Lead to develop and implement effective go-to-market strategies.
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers and distributors to optimize costs and ensure favourable terms.

1. Financial Management:
• Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial plans to achieve growth targets and maximise profitability.
• Monitor financial performance against targets, identifying risks and opportunities, and taking corrective actions as necessary.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and efficiency improvements to enhance margins and operational efficiency.
• Prepare financial reports and presentations for stakeholders.

1. Health and Safety, Quality, People, and Cost Reduction:
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and best practices, maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.
• Drive a culture of quality excellence, implementing rigorous quality control measures and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Implement strategies to reduce costs while maintaining product quality and operational efficiency.

Requirements:

• Proven experience 10 years in a senior leadership role within the food manufacturing industry, with a track record of driving growth and operational excellence.
• Strong grounding in lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement methodologies, and operational best practices.
• Demonstrated commercial acumen, with experience in developing and executing strategic growth initiatives.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams towards common goals.
• Commitment to health and safety, quality, people development, and cost reduction.
• Growth mindset with a proven ability to drive change and achieve ambitious targets.

What we offer you in return:

• Highly competitive salary
• Car allowance
• On target bonus
• Generous pension contribution
• Range of corporate benefits
• A great local food company