Production Manager
Location: Kilkenny

A leadership opportunity is available for a motivated and experienced Production Manager to oversee day-to-day operations within a busy manufacturing facility. The successful candidate will take ownership of production planning, team supervision, and process efficiency, while ensuring the highest standards in safety, quality, and output.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and coordinate daily production activities to meet operational targets.
• Identify areas for process improvement and implement approved efficiency enhancements.
• Plan and schedule production tasks to ensure timely completion of orders.
• Maintain quality assurance standards across all production stages—from raw materials to finished goods.
• Lead and manage a cross-functional team including production, warehousing, and logistics staff.
• Ensure proper staff deployment and provide training to meet operational and safety standards.
• Uphold rigorous hygiene and housekeeping standards throughout the production and packaging areas.
• Enforce health and safety policies in compliance with applicable standards and internal procedures.
• Report and escalate any quality or compliance non-conformities to senior leadership and relevant departments.
• Maintain consistent product quality and presentation according to expectations.
• Build expertise in the operation and basic maintenance of equipment, working closely with engineering teams to minimize downtime.
• Participate in the evaluation, commissioning, and integration of new equipment, including leading staff training during implementation.
• Perform other duties as required in line with the evolving needs of the facility.

Core Competencies:

• Resilience under pressure with the ability to make sound decisions quickly.
• Solid understanding of quality control processes and compliance standards.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Leadership mindset with the ability to foster teamwork and motivate staff.
• Goal-oriented with a focus on delivering measurable results.
• Highly organized, detail-focused, and deadline-driven.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing operational demands.

Experience & Qualifications: 

• A relevant third-level qualification in production management, process engineering, or a related discipline is advantageous.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a supervisory or management role in a manufacturing and/or packing environment.
• Proven leadership skills, particularly in staff management, performance development, and process optimization.
• Knowledge of industry-specific regulations is beneficial.
• Experience with continuous improvement initiatives is desirable.
• Proficient in general computer applications; familiarity with ERP systems such as SAP is a plus.
• Fluent in English.

For additional information and a confidential discussion on this Production Manager position and similar opportunities contact: Chris 056-7786631 / 083 1220295 or Chris@optimizerecruitment.ie

Chris is available for a call between 9am and 5.30pm daily (outside of work hours calls / meetings can be arranged upon request). 

Please submit your CV via the link provided, in confidence.

All applications will be dealt with in the strictest confidence and your CV will never be released without your prior approval.

Job Ref Number: OR-13151

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