This is a rare chance to step into a high-impact Production Manager role at a modern, purpose-built food manufacturing facility in Regional QLD (Bundaberg).
Reporting to a very experienced General Manager, this role has been designed with a clear succession pathway in place. The right candidate won't be just managing production - they'll be groomed to take the reins of the broader processing operations in a few years time.
This role will suit a high-calibre Production or Manufacturing Manager who feels ready for that next step up. You will receive plenty of guidance and support from the business to get there.
The Business
The food manufacturing business is in the midst of a significant growth phase, with plans to triple their production volumes at this site over the next 3 years. Backed by substantial capital investment in the site expansion, the business is now transitioning from a seasonal, casual-workforce model to a year-round manufacturing operation.
The Role
As the Production Manager, you will own the end-to-end operational performance of this manufacturing facility. You are a strategic thinker who understands how production ties directly into commercial outcomes, while also being hands on enough to drive culture, processes and developing team capability on the floor.
- Lead production planning and execution to meet volume targets while maximising efficiency, yield and labour utilisation
- Drive the development of systems, processes and a high-performance culture across a growing team
- Partner with maintenance, quality and logistics to minimise downtime and ensure product integrity
- Manage resourcing, scheduling and offsite processing coordination
- Play an active role in CapEx projects including line expansion, automation and new capability builds
- Ensure compliance with all WH&S, food safety and quality requirements
- Support and develop direct reports including Production Coordinators and Warehouse Manager
- Contribute to the strategic direction of the operation as part of the senior leadership team
You are an experienced food manufacturing leader who combines strong operational instincts with a genuine commercial mindset. You're comfortable in a growth environment, energised by building something, and ready to step into a role that has a genuine future attached to it.
You will bring:
- Minimum 5 years' experience in a senior operational leadership role within food manufacturing
- A strong grasp of how production performance connects to business commercials
- Demonstrated experience with process manufacturing and operational excellence (OpEx) frameworks
- Proven ability to lead, develop and engage teams — including building culture in an evolving environment
- Experience managing or contributing to capital projects or process improvement initiatives
- Experience in agricultural or primary produce processing is highly regarded but not essential
- Strong communication, problem-solving and stakeholder management skills
- Commitment to food safety, quality and WH&S
- Attractive salary + Relocation assistance on offer
- Modern facility - new site undergoing continual growth plans
- Real impact - you'll help shape the culture, capability and direction of this operation from an early stage
- Genuine scucession plan - a defined career pathway to a GM-level leadership role (for the right candidate)
Bundaberg offers a lifestyle that's hard to match - a warm coastal climate, affordable living, and a genuine sense of community that regional Queensland is known for.
Located just over 300km north of Brisbane, Bundaberg sits at the heart of one of Australia's most productive agricultural regions. You're a short drive from the Great Barrier Reef, with beaches, fishing and outdoor living on your doorstep year-round.
Housing is more affordable than the big cities - whether you're upsizing, looking for space for a family, or simply wanting more for your money than a capital city can offer. The region has quality schools, a growing café and dining scene, and all the everyday amenities you'd expect, without the commute and cost that comes with city life.
How to Apply
To learn more or if you would like to have a confidential conversation about this role, please click “Apply” or if you have any questions contact Orrin Huang at ohuang@sharpandcarter.com.au
Feel free to connect in with me on https://www.linkedin.com/in/orrinhuang/
