We are seeking an experienced Production Manager – Cheese to oversee end-to-end cheese manufacturing operations. This role ensures safe production, consistent product quality, and efficient operational performance while fostering a strong culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
The Production Manager – Cheese is responsible for leading daily production activities, optimizing processes, and ensuring compliance with food safety and environmental standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily cheese production operations including milk intake, pasteurization, curd formation, pressing, and aging.
- Ensure compliance with EHS, GMP, and food safety standards while promoting a strong safety culture.
- Monitor and adjust production plans to meet demand and customer requirements.
- Analyze production metrics such as yield, downtime, and efficiency to drive performance improvements.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives including lean manufacturing and root cause analysis.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives including lean manufacturing and root cause analysis.
- Collaborate with Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain teams to align production priorities.
- Optimize production output, throughput, and overall operational efficiency.
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Dairy Science, Engineering, or related field.
- Minimum of 6 years of leadership experience in dairy or food manufacturing.
- Strong knowledge of cheese production processes including fermentation, curd handling, moisture control, and aging.
- Understanding of GMPs, food safety regulations, and industry standards.
- Experience with large-scale production and automated systems preferred.
Work Environment
- Fast-paced manufacturing and office environment following GMP standards.
- Exposure to chemicals, allergens, enzymes, and moderate-to-high noise levels.
- PPE required including safety footwear, gloves, eye protection, and lab coat.
The Production Manager – Cheese will lead a team of production staff and supervisors, ensuring strong engagement, accountability, and performance.
Team Leadership & Culture
- Lead, train, and develop production team members and supervisors.
- Assign work, set priorities, and monitor team performance.
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Manage staffing, recruitment, and performance management processes.
Ways of Working
- Act with respect, integrity, and inclusiveness.
- Drive for excellence and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate effectively and contribute to shared team success.