Production Area Manager

About The Role

We are looking for an experienced Area Manager to lead our Low Risk production operation. This is a pivotal leadership role where you will be the most senior operational leader on shift, taking full responsibility for people, performance, food safety, quality, and operational decision-making across the area. This role would suit an established manufacturing leader with experience managing teams within a food production environment.

Experience within low-risk operations is essential, with raw meat or raw material handling experience highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

Leading multiple teams across the shift to deliver production plans safely, efficiently and on time. Taking ownership of operational decisions, problem-solving and escalation management when challenges arise. Driving standards in food safety, quality, health & safety and compliance across the department. Managing, coaching and developing Team Leaders and production colleagues to achieve high performance.

Working cross-functionally with Planning, Technical, Engineering and Supply Chain teams to deliver business objectives.

About You

We believe success comes from collaboration and diverse perspectives. At Samworth Brothers, we value team players who are driven to achieve great results together. This is an excellent opportunity to join a successful food manufacturing operation and play a key leadership role in delivering high standards, developing people and driving performance.

You'll have the autonomy to lead your shift, influence business outcomes and make a genuine impact on the operation. Proven management experience within a low-risk food manufacturing environment. Ideally experienced in raw meat or raw material handling operations. Demonstrated ability to make sound decisions under pressure and take ownership for outcomes.

Strong leadership experience, with the ability to motivate, coach and develop teams. Experience managing performance, attendance, employee relations and labour planning. Strong understanding of food safety, quality systems and manufacturing KPIs. Food Safety Level 3 qualification or equivalent. Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills What We Offer We’re building a workplace where different ways of thinking are not just welcomed but supported, with clear communication, flexible processes, and a commitment to continuous improvement so everyone can thrive.

Company pension scheme Access to health and well-being support, such as healthcare, optical and dental discounts Employee discount scheme Experience annual pay reviews Profit related pay Opportunity for extended leave Free on-site parking Unlock your potential through training and growth opportunities About Us Samworth Brothers is a fourth-generation family business, trusted by many of the UK’s best-known retailers to produce high-quality own-label products.

Alongside these, we’re proud to craft and deliver our own iconic brands, including Ginsters, Soreen, Higgidy, Dickinson & Morris, Urban Eat, West Cornwall Pasty Company, and Walker & Son. With over 10,000 talented colleagues working across our modern, well-invested food manufacturing sites nationwide, we’re committed to excellence in everything we do—from the food we make to the careers we build.

At Samworth Brothers, you’re more than just an employee, you are part of our strong family culture. Our collaborative approach and strong team spirit help us support one another and achieve great things together. As part of a well-established group, we offer stability, opportunity, and a place where you can truly thrive.

Ready to make a difference? Join us and be part of something special! We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunities employer making diversity and inclusion a core part of everything we do. We also actively welcome applications from neurodivergent individuals and are committed to a recruitment process that’s fair, respectful, and free from bias.

If you need any adaptations to the application or interview process, please do let us know. Samworth Brothers do not engage with unlicensed gangmasters or third parties. Samworth Brothers will NEVER ask you for money in order to provide you with employment. If you are in any doubt, please contact an official Samworth Brothers representative.