Manufacturing Manager

About the role

The client is a leading food manufacturing organisation in Melbourne, seeking an experienced Manufacturing Manager to lead packaging operations across three shifts. Reporting to the Site/Plant Manager, you will be responsible for driving performance, safety, quality and continuous improvement in a high‑speed production environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead packaging operations on a 24/5 roster, setting direction and ensuring disciplined execution against output, quality and food‑safety targets.
• Build and coach a high‑performing team of shift supervisors and operators, fostering a culture of accountability and engagement.
• Design and influence future state equipment, layout, CAPEX and operating model, underpinned by structured manufacturing systems and SOPs.
• Own key performance metrics such as OEE, yield/waste and labour utilisation, providing regular reporting and corrective actions.
• Identify and lead lean‑manufacturing continuous‑improvement initiatives to drive financial performance and operational excellence.
• Ensure full compliance with food‑safety, GMP, HACCP and WHS requirements, elevating safety standards across the plant.
• Partner with maintenance, quality and supply‑chain teams to optimise production scheduling.
• Manage labour planning, rostering and casual workforce to meet demand within budget.

Required profile

• Tertiary qualification in Engineering, Food Science or a related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a leadership or management role within a manufacturing environment.
• Prior experience in food or beverage manufacturing is highly regarded.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous‑improvement methodologies.
• Proven ability to drive performance through data‑driven analysis and root‑cause problem solving.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence at all levels.

Required skills

• Microsoft Office proficiency