Plant Manager

Plant Manager

Step into the heartbeat of a high-volume manufacturing environment where precision, efficiency and quality all come together on the factory floor. This Plant Manager role centres on keeping a busy plastics/packaging plant running smoothly, driving engineering excellence, and making sure every product that leaves the site proudly meets strict food-safety and quality standards.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead the plant to consistently deliver strong output, excellent quality and safe operations.

Ensure production runs to high quality standards, with minimal waste and optimal efficiency

Champion team motivation, support and performance across shifts and departments

Maintain world-class housekeeping and plant discipline to keep the site clean, safe and audit-ready

Monitor raw material usage, minimise variances and drive cost-effective production

Embed and uphold FSSC-compliant processes, systems and documentation throughout the plant

Take accountability for engineering standards in the factory, ensuring equipment and utilities are robust and reliable

Act as the go-to resource for root cause analysis on problem process flows, putting sustainable corrective actions in place

Oversee installation and commissioning of new equipment and production systems

Participate in design review meetings (DRMs) for new moulds and existing market quality issues

Manage and track all central engineering projects for the division, from concept to completion

Review maintenance spend monthly, identifying opportunities to reduce downtime and optimise cost

Review spares holdings to ensure the right stock levels and availability for critical equipment

Make sure grinder maintenance and other key machinery routines meet company standards and policy

Own all mould maintenance in the factory, ensuring tool life, quality and performance

Keep up to date with new technologies and recommend practical upgrades for the plant

Prepare, motivate and manage capex proposals, keeping projects on time and within budget

REQUIREMENTS

The role suits a hands-on plant leader who brings both technical strength and confident people management.

Engineering degree in Mechanical or Electrical

3 – 5 years’ experience in a management role within a production/manufacturing environment

Solid knowledge and understanding of Quality Management Systems

Strong budgeting skills with the ability to set, monitor and manage financial targets

Proven ability to plan, organise and prioritise effectively in a fast-paced plant

Confident, quick decision-making style with a strong sense of urgency

Track record of motivating and driving teams to hit safety, quality and output targets

Clear, effective communication across shop floor, technical and senior levels

Good understanding of FSSC requirements and food-safety expectations

Working knowledge of the OSH Act and practical safety compliance

High attention to detail and a continuous improvement mindset

Self-motivated, positive, and energising to those around you