Lead manufacturing operations and product innovation.
Drive the future product portfolio and expansion plans.

About Our Client

Our client is a well-established food and beverage company recognised for delivering high-quality consumer products across retail and foodservice channels. The organisation continues to invest in manufacturing capabilities, product innovation and market expansion to support future growth opportunities.

With a commitment to food quality, operational excellence and consumer-focused innovation, the company is seeking a dynamic leader to drive both production performance and new product development initiatives.

Job Description

Lead end-to-end operations of the central kitchen and manufacturing facility.
Drive production efficiency, capacity planning and continuous operational improvement.
Lead new product development and innovation projects from concept through commercial launch.
Develop innovative food products aligned to evolving consumer and market trends.
Ensure compliance with food safety, quality assurance and regulatory standards.
Partner with commercial, procurement and operational teams to successfully launch new products.
Build, mentor and develop high-performing production and research teams.

The Successful Applicant

Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Manufacturing, Engineering or a related field.
Minimally 8 years of leadership experience within food manufacturing, food production or central kitchen operations.
Proven experience in new product development, commercialisation and manufacturing scale-up.
Strong knowledge of quality management, food safety and manufacturing best practices.
Experience managing production teams, operational KPIs and continuous improvement initiatives.
Commercially minded with strong project management and stakeholder engagement skills.
Ability to balance innovation, operational efficiency and profitability objectives.

What's on Offer

Opportunity to lead both production and innovation functions with significant organisational impact.
Highly visible role supporting business growth and future product expansion.
Exposure to product innovation, manufacturing transformation and commercialisation projects.
Collaborative leadership team with strong investment in growth and capability building.
Career progression opportunities within a growing food manufacturing business.
Supportive environment that encourages innovation and continuous improvement.
Competitive compensation package with performance incentives.
Opportunity to shape next-generation food products and production capabilities.

Contact:

Quote job ref: JN-082026-7086342

Head of Central Kitchen Production & Product Development (F&B)