Head of Operations – FMCG Manufacturing
Location: Co. Meath, Ireland
Our client, an expanding FMCG start-up with a strong export footprint, is entering a significant growth phase driven by increasing global demand. As a result, they are seeking to appoint an experienced Head of Operations to lead and scale manufacturing performance, with a clear mandate to increase site output by 200–300% over the next three years.
This is a senior leadership role with full responsibility for the operational and commercial performance of a high-end FMCG manufacturing site.
The Role
Reporting to the Managing Director, you will take full ownership of site operations, leading a multi-functional leadership team across production, quality, supply chain, finance, and continuous improvement. The position carries full P&L accountability and requires a balance of strategic oversight and hands‑on operational leadership.
You will be responsible for driving performance across safety, quality, service, cost, and people, ensuring the site is positioned to deliver sustained growth while maintaining the highest food safety and compliance standards.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and develop the site leadership team to deliver operational and financial targets
Drive significant capacity expansion to meet ambitious growth plans
Manage full site P&L, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control
Oversee end-to-end manufacturing operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and output targets are achieved
Implement and embed continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, CI programmes)
Ensure full compliance with food safety, regulatory, and customer standards, including BRCGS
Lead all audit activity and maintain best‑in‑class audit performance
Align production planning with customer demand in an export‑led environment
Build a high‑performance culture focused on accountability, engagement, and development
Manage capital investment projects and site upgrades to support scale‑up
Candidate Profile
Proven senior leadership experience within food manufacturing or FMCG
Strong track record of scaling manufacturing operations in a growth environment
Demonstrable experience with full site P&L responsibility
In‑depth knowledge of food safety standards, including HACCP, GMP, and BRC audits
Experience managing cross‑functional teams across production, QA, supply chain, and finance
Strong understanding of operational KPIs (OEE, waste, downtime, service levels)
Background in continuous improvement and operational excellence programmes
Commercially aware with the ability to link operational decisions to financial outcomes
Capable of operating effectively in a fast‑paced, evolving business
The Next Step for you:
Should this position be of interest to you please forward your CV to Sarah Mac Mullan from Next Generation Recruitment or alternatively call on the main line on 00 353 1 6498546
Next Generation are specialists in Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, Quality, Technical and Operation (permanent, contract and temporary) positions.
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