Interim Head of Manufacturing

Job DescriptionWe are one of the fastest growing Pet Food manufacturers in the UK, now seeking a strategic and hands-on operational leader to join our team as Head of Manufacturing. Pets Choice Company InformationPets Choice is a +100million supplier of leading FMCG Branded Pet Food and Pet Products. Our products range from Food & Treats, Toys & Accessories to Animal Health. Our portfolio of brands include: Webbox, Bob Martin, TastyBone, Felight, Spikes, WildThings and Meatiful.Role OverviewReporting to the Head of Group Operations, you will be an integral part of the business with a high degree of responsibility. Not only will you focus on supporting and leading the operational team to deliver outstanding results, but youll also play a key role in providing inspirational leadership and direction to keep the team safe, engaged, focused and able to deliver to their full long-term potential.Responsibilities include: Responsibility for 3 Blackburn Manufacturing sites.Leadership of Operations Managers and key operations staff with an indirect team of 200.Departments include Engineering, Production, Production Planning, Packing and H&S.Oversee all operational activity to optimize productivity and drive efficiency.Ensure we produce safe, quality products for our customers.Support with leading CAPEX projects and other CI based initiatives.Ensuring that KPIs are achieved, meeting operational objectives and exceeding customer expectations.Work with cross functional teams to deliver company objectives.What are we looking for?A proven track record gained from an FMCG Food manufacturing environment, along with sound GMP and BRC experience.Experience within the meat industry would be an advantage.Excellent understanding of quality control standards and practices.Energetic leader with a hands-on approach. Ability to engage, manage, coach and develop a team.Experience in Engineering would be an advantage.A strong analytical thinker that can use data to drive operational change and efficiency.Strong understanding of budget creation/management and resource allocation.Ability to influence and build strong relationships.Resilient, optimistic and adaptable to change.A can do attitude and track record of delivering continuous improvement projects.Ability to lead and operate as part of a team on projects, both from a capital and process engineering perspective.Excellent communications skills with the ability to work with cross functional teams to optimise performance and plan in a complex organisation.Experience with Lean management is essential.Experience of CI management / OpEx lead is desirable.

Created: 2025-10-16