Production Manager

Refresco Group; Bridgwater; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading beverage solutions provider in Bridgwater is searching for an experienced Production Manager to enhance production efficiency and lead a skilled team. This role requires expertise in food manufacturing practices, regulatory standards, and continuous improvement methodologies. The successful candidate will manage production budgets and ensure compliance with safety regulations while motivating the team to meet production goals.

Benefits

Competitive pay

12.5% annual bonus

7% employer pension contribution

Personal healthcare cover

Life assurance

27 days holiday plus bank holidays

Access to employee benefits platform

Qualifications

• Strong background in food manufacturing and regulations.
• Experience managing large teams and budgets effectively.
• Proven ability to solve complex production issues.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of production and manage the team.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives for efficiency.
• Maintain compliance with quality and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Production planning

Continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma)

Communication skills

Safety regulations

Education

Relevant degree in food science or engineering

Tools

Manufacturing software

Job description

Production Manager – Bridgwater, Somerset

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Production Manager to lead our beverages manufacturing operations and drive the production process to new heights of efficiency and excellence. In this pivotal role you will oversee all aspects of production, ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance are consistently met, while managing and motivating a skilled team, optimizing production schedules, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce costs.

Monday – Thursday 8:30am – 5pm, Friday 8:30am – 4pm

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of production, fostering strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Support the Factory Manager in setting and aligning site and departmental goals with the broader business strategy.
• Manage the production budget, including labour and materials, and maintain optimal Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
• Report on KPIs (SQDCP), interpret data, and develop action plans to drive performance.
• Ensure site Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are up‑to‑date, fit for purpose, and staff are well trained; maintain audit readiness and compliance with the Quality Management System (QMS).
• Manage staffing levels to meet demand and cost targets while inspiring and motivating the team to meet objectives.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance OEE and yield, promote health and safety practices, and foster collaboration across departments.
• Develop and contribute to site projects, define competency levels, create training programs, and conduct annual appraisals and regular one‑on‑ones.
• Cover for the Factory Manager and ensure continuity in key roles during shifts.

Key Experience & Qualifications

• Strong background in food manufacturing with regulations such as HACCP, GMP, and food safety standards.
• Significant leadership experience managing large teams, focusing on performance management, training, and development.
• Expertise in production planning, scheduling, and inventory management, with a solid understanding of supply chain and logistics.
• Experience implementing continuous improvement initiatives (Lean or Six Sigma) to enhance operational efficiency, quality, and productivity.
• Financial acumen, able to manage production budgets, monitor costs, and drive cost‑reduction targets while maintaining quality and compliance.
• Deep understanding of health and safety regulations in a manufacturing setting, and experience leading safety initiatives.
• Proven ability to solve complex production issues quickly and effectively to minimise disruption.
• Strong communication skills for cross‑functional collaboration and stakeholder management.
• Familiarity with modern production technologies, including automated systems, PLCs, and manufacturing software to optimise OEE.
• Relevant degree in food science, engineering, or related field; professional certifications in food safety or production management preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• 12.5% annual bonus
• 7% employer pension contribution
• Personal healthcare cover with Bupa
• Life assurance
• 27 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Purchase extra holiday scheme
• Access to employee benefits platform – Cheers, including flexible benefits such as additional healthcare cover, healthcare cash plan, dental insurance, car scheme, activities pass, financial services, will writing services, etc.

About Refresco

Refresco is the global independent beverage solutions provider for global, national and emerging brands, and retailers with production in Europe, North America and Australia. We offer an extensive range of product and packaging combinations from juices to carbonated soft drinks and mineral waters in carton, PET, Aseptic PET, cans and glass. Based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, we employ over 13,500 people worldwide. Refresco is committed to continuous improvement in quality, packaging, and sustainability, and is proud to be a major UK manufacturing site, supporting more than 1,800 employees across six sites.

Equal Opportunity Employment

Refresco believes that equal opportunity for all is fundamental to our company’s values and all applicants can expect fairness and transparency in our recruitment process.