Production Operations Manager

Production & Operations ManagerSydney | $130K-$160K PackageMost Production Manager roles involve inheriting an existing operation. This isn't one of them.

We're partnering with a well-funded Australian consumer brand that has experienced significant growth over recent years and is now bringing manufacturing in-house for the first time.

Backed by an experienced founder with a track record of building and scaling successful businesses, the company is entering an exciting new phase. The production facility location has been selected, equipment has been secured, and the foundations are in place.

What they need now is an experienced operator to help bring it all together.

This is a rare opportunity to build a manufacturing operation from the ground up and then take ownership of running it.

The Opportunity

Reporting directly to the Founder, you'll play a pivotal role in establishing a new manufacturing facility and creating the systems, processes and team required for long-term success.

Initially, your focus will be on commissioning equipment, establishing production workflows, developing SOPs, implementing food safety processes and building a capable production team.

Once operational, you'll lead the day-to-day manufacturing operation, driving output, quality, safety, efficiency and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead equipment installation, commissioning and start-up activities
• Establish production processes, SOPs and operating standards
• Recruit, train and develop a high-performing production team
• Implement and maintain HACCP-aligned food safety systems
• Manage production planning, scheduling and inventory requirements
• Drive operational performance across safety, quality, output and cost metrics
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity and efficiency
• Build a strong culture of accountability, ownership and operational excellence
• Manage supplier, contractor and logistics relationships as required

About You

We're interested in speaking with proven manufacturing leaders who have experience in food & beverage or broader FMCG manufacturing environments.

You'll ideally bring:

• Experience establishing, commissioning or significantly upgrading manufacturing operations or production lines
• Strong knowledge of HACCP and food safety systems
• A hands-on leadership style and willingness to lead from the factory floor
• Experience managing production teams and operational performance
• A continuous improvement mindset with strong commercial awareness
• The ability to thrive in a fast-moving, entrepreneurial environment where decisions are made quickly and ownership is expected
• Experience with powder processing, blending, packaging operations or high-volume consumer goods manufacturing would be highly regarded.

Why Join?

• Genuine greenfield opportunity with the ability to shape the operation from day one
• Direct access to an experienced founder and decision-maker
• Significant autonomy and ownership
• Well-funded growth business entering an exciting new phase
• Opportunity to build both the operation and your own leadership scope as the business scales
• For a confidential discussion, simply click APPLY and James Slaven will handle your appliction in confidence.