Senior Operations Manager – Fruit Packing & Citrus Operations

About the role

We are seeking a senior operational leader to head our fruit packing centres and drive the launch of a new citrus packing platform. The role combines day‑to‑day operational oversight with strategic development to support the company’s growth in fresh produce.

Key responsibilities

• Lead daily operations across multiple fruit packing sites, coordinating production, packing, warehouse and logistics.
• Ensure production plans are executed safely, efficiently and on schedule while balancing capacity with commercial demand.
• Monitor performance through KPIs, implement corrective actions and promote best‑practice consistency.
• Support the design, equipment selection, commissioning and start‑up of the new citrus packing platform.
• Develop operational procedures, performance standards and a scalable model for future growth.
• Coach and develop production supervisors, coordinators and team leaders, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing initiatives, standardise processes and reduce waste.
• Maintain compliance with IFS, BRC, HACCP and health‑and‑safety standards, and support internal and external audits.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading operational teams in fruit packing or similar food‑processing environments.
• Strong background in implementing food‑safety standards (IFS, BRC, HACCP).
• Demonstrated ability to manage large‑scale projects, including equipment selection and facility layout.
• Leadership skills to coach multidisciplinary teams and drive a high‑performance culture.

Required skills

• IFS certification knowledge
• BRC certification knowledge
• HACCP implementation
• Lean Manufacturing principles