Production Manager

About the Company

We're working with an award-winning, family-owned NZ business bringing joy to Kiwis with their premium FMCG product. Proudly Kiwi-made, their imaginative brands are inspired by fun, discovery and a passion for quality - creating smiles and memories with every taste 

At the heart of the business is a fast-paced, finely-tuned manufacturing plant producing their premium product - meeting the highest of quality and delivery standards. The company's success is based on a strong set of values; creating a premium brand through collaboration and a positive, calm culture that encourages fresh thinking and open conversation. People are trusted to do great work, support one another and roll up their sleeves when needed. With a product kiwis genuinely love and a team who are passionate about quality and delivery, my client is all about growing together. Due to expansion and growth, we are on the hunt for an experienced FMCG Production Manager who is an expert in people and processing equipment.

Due to expansion and growth, we are on the hunt for an experienced FMCG Production Manager who is an expert in people management and equipment management. 

About the Role

You will oversee and manage the day-to-day factory operations, ensuring your team delivers quality products safely, efficiently, and on time. A core part of your responsibility will be optimising production schedules and maintaining seamless workflow coordination across the factory floor. This is a high-speed, fast-paced manufacturing environment with strict delivery timelines, no day is the same, so we need someone with strong equipment knowledge and who has experience in large-scale production where coordination, planning, and precision are essential.

You will be someone who can anticipate potential issues - whether they arise from people, equipment or process flow - and who can read an assembly line well enough to intervene proactively rather than reactively. You will also be accountable for leading your team and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Your leadership style is calm, steady, and respectful - and you consistently model the behaviour and standards you expect from others. Your energy, enthusiasm, and clear communication will drive team performance and ensure to get the best out of people.

This role revolves around quality, efficiency, compliance, deadlines, production scheduling, and the crucial connection between people and the hi-spec equipment they operate. You will ensure production runs smoothly without ever compromising output targets, quality expectations or safety protocols. You have the ability to troubleshoot quickly and anticipate challenges before they escalate, working collaboratively with others to maintain continuity of supply. You will excel in organising rosters, supporting report preparation and partnering closely with maintenance, engineering, and quality teams to ensure every deadline is met to the highest standard.

About You

You are a calm and confident, people-focused leader with a background in FMCG manufacturing. You thrive under pressure, communicate clearly, and lead by example. You are not afraid to roll up your sleeves and jump in when needed while being flexible to support the team, and wider business. Your knowledge of FMCG manufacturing equipment is second to none and you may have a production or engineering background. You take pride in your ability to 'read' people and know how to guide, support and coach.

• Minimum 10 years experience as an FMCG Production Manager
• FMCG manufacturing industry experience is essential - knowledge of dairy manufacturing is an advantage
• Strong understanding of health & safety and quality standards
• Sound knowledge in hi-tech FMCG production equipment
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Proven people manager and ability to get the best out of a team
• A proactive, hands-on approach with a focus on results
• Flexibility to work across shifts if required and the occasional on-call weekend

Be part of a team who values excellence and drives to continuous improvement. Hit Apply and make your application count.