About the Business: 
A well-established, family-owned manufacturing business specialising in thermoformed packaging and contract packing services. The business partners with a global dispensing solutions provider to deliver innovative, end-to-end packaging solutions tailored to customer requirements across multiple industries.

The Opportunity:
An opportunity exists for an experienced Production Manager to lead production operations across multiple business units. This role is responsible for the safe, efficient and high-quality delivery of thermoforming and contract packing projects, ensuring production efficiency, DIFOT performance, employee engagement and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities Production & Operations:

• Manage all production work centres and schedule machines, allocating labour and resources accordingly
• Plan, manage and continuously review production schedules to optimise efficiency, OEE and DIFOT
• Ensure safe and efficient production in line with quality standards and customer specifications
• Oversee daily production reporting including output, efficiency, waste, rejects and downtime
• Review reports and implement corrective and improvement actions
• Ensure products are produced and packed to specification
• Maintain QA protocols and ensure QA records are completed accurately
• Provide first-off production samples to Sales and Customer Service
• Work closely with Customer Service and Warehouse teams to understand demand requirements

People & Leadership:

• Lead, motivate and manage all production staff to maximise productivity and cost efficiency
• Oversee attendance, performance, behaviour, efficiencies and quality standards
• Maintain and develop employee skills matrix and succession depth
• Identify training gaps and implement cross-training strategies
• Oversee induction and training of new staff
• Foster a positive, safe and engaged workplace culture

Safety, Quality & Compliance:

• Demonstrate a strong commitment to a Zero Harm safety mindset
• Ensure compliance with WHS policies, procedures and legislation
• Oversee risk management processes and safety systems
• Ensure machinery complies with mandatory safety requirements
• Maintain clean, safe and organised production and warehouse areas
• Support and maintain ISO & HACCP accreditation

Continuous Improvement & Cost Control:

• Implement systems to measure productivity, waste, downtime, labour and costs
• Drive continuous improvement and LEAN manufacturing initiatives
• Provide input into costing of new work and projects
• Report daily on key production metrics
• Reduce operating and casual labour costs through improved planning and efficiency

Maintenance & Equipment:

• Oversee routine maintenance, repairs and replacement of production equipment
• Coordinate external service providers and contractors
• Ensure maintenance records are completed and compliant

Skills, Experience & Qualifications Essential:

• Proven experience in production or manufacturing management
• Strong leadership and people management capability
• Solid understanding of WHS regulations and risk management
• Experience reporting on production KPIs (OEE, efficiency, waste, downtime)
• Strong systems and process discipline
• High attention to detail with the ability to manage competing priorities
• Proficiency in MS Office and ERP systems

Highly Regarded:

• Experience with LEAN manufacturing principles
• Basic mechanical background working with toolmakers, die setters and maintenance teams
• Trade, technical or tertiary qualifications
• Experience in packaging, thermoforming or contract manufacturing environments