Packing Manager

The vacancy position is for a Packing Manager based in Cumbria, working for a well-established international company that specialises in providing high-quality nutritional products and supplements. Their award winning products are known for their premium ingredients, rigorous quality control, and commitment to scientific research.

The successful candidate will have the following responsibilities;

Production Planning and Scheduling:

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop production plans that align with sales forecasts and inventory levels.
Create and manage production schedules, taking into account lead times, order volumes, and production capacities of co-packers.
Monitor production progress and address any delays or issues that may arise to ensure on-time delivery.

Quality Assurance and Compliance:

Establish and communicate quality standards and specifications for products, ensuring they comply with regulatory requirements and company guidelines.
Conduct regular quality audits at co-packer facilities to ensure adherence to quality standards, safety protocols, and hygiene practices.
Collaborate with co-packers to implement corrective actions when quality or compliance issues are identified.

Inventory Management:

Coordinate with co-packers to manage inventory levels of finished goods, raw materials, and packaging materials.
Monitor inventory turnover rates and implement strategies to optimise inventory levels while minimising excess stock or shortages.

Process Improvement:

Continuously evaluate co-packing processes to identify opportunities for efficiency improvements and cost reduction.
Collaborate with co-packers to implement process enhancements, such as lean manufacturing principles or automation, to increase productivity.

Communication and Collaboration:

Foster strong relationships with co-packers through regular communication, meetings, and site visits.
Work closely with internal teams, including procurement, sales, and logistics, to ensure smooth collaboration and alignment of goals.

Risk Management:

Identify potential risks in the co-packing process and develop contingency plans to mitigate disruptions to production and distribution.
Stay informed about industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices related to co-packing and supply chain management.

New Product Development:

Collaborate with co-packers and product development teams to bring new products to market, ensuring feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and quality.

Documentation and Reporting:

Maintain accurate records of co-packer performance, production volumes, quality metrics, and compliance documentation.
Generate regular reports and presentations for senior management to communicate performance, challenges, and improvement initiatives.

The successful candidate for the Packing Manager in Cumbria will have the following skills and characteristics.

Qualifications and Skills:

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Business Administration, or a related field.
Proven experience (typically 5+ years) in supply chain management, co-packing, or manufacturing within the consumer goods industry, preferably in the Food product sector.
Proficiency in data analysis and using tools like Excel, ERP systems, and inventory management software to make informed decisions.
Excellent negotiation and communication.
Problem-solving mindset with the ability to identify issues, develop solutions, and implement process improvements.
Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, process optimisation, and cost reduction strategies.
Detail-oriented and quality-focused, ensuring that products meet or exceed established standards.
Familiarity with logistics and distribution processes, understanding how co-packing impacts overall supply chain efficiency.

£40,000 - £45,000 + Benefits

EA First Ltd are acting as an Employment Agency for this permanent vacancy.