production manager - manufacturing

Who we are: Frulact is an international business group, founded in Oporto, Portugal in 1987. Currently, we are positioned as a top-ranked innovative player in the supply of added-value ingredients for the food and beverage industry, focusing on fruit preparations, plant-based dairy alternatives, liquid flavors, and other specialty ingredients. For more information about us, please click the link below: https://frulact.com/ Overview The Production Manager is responsible for leading a team of approximately 50 production employees operating across a three-shift rotation in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. This role provides day-to-day leadership and direction to ensure production targets are achieved while maintaining the highest standards of product quality, food safety, employee safety, and operational efficiency. Responsibilities: * Leading the production team to foster a high-performing, safety-focused team environment. * Oversee daily production operations, ensuring optimal efficiency, product quality, and adherence to production demands. * Coordinate cross-functional activities across production departments to ensure seamless workflow and operational excellence. * Review and validate production documentation, including additional work requests and service communications, and submit approved records to Human Resources. * Participate in daily organoleptic evaluations to verify product quality and consistency. * Monitor industrial trials, Critical Control Points (CCPs), and process performance to ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards. * Identify, implement, and drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve manufacturing efficiency. * Monitor production line performance and maintain daily production metrics and visual management boards. * Contribute to the development of the annual operating budget and support cost management initiatives. * Analyze weekly production performance reports and recommend corrective actions to improve operational results. * Participate in quarterly budget variance reviews and evaluate production performance against financial and operational targets. * Ensure ongoing compliance with Operational Prerequisite Programs (OPRPs), Prerequisite Programs (PRPs), and all applicable food safety requirements throughout the facility. * Serve as an active member of the HACCP team, supporting food safety initiatives, audits, and continuous compliance. * Coordinate production planning activities, including invoice review and scheduling to meet customer demand. * Manage the incorporation and utilization of rework materials in accordance with quality and food safety standards. * Collaborate with Research & Development by providing operational feedback to support product improvements and process optimization. * Verify raw material specifications, production temperatures, process flows, and industrial test parameters to ensure product integrity. * Support Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement projects that drive operational excellence and sustainable business growth. Requirements/Education: * Production/Industrial Background * College/University Degree * Minimum 3-5 years of Production manufacturing/management experience in a similar role * Excellent leadership, communication and interpersonal skills with the capability of developing a strong team. * Must have strong knowledge of Health and Safety and Food Safety protocols * Proficient in Microsoft Office and SAP * Must be able to work in a high pressure, fast-paced environment, work effectively both independently and within a team. Benefits with Frulact: * Monday-Friday Operation * Internal career/growth opportunities * 3 weeks of vacation annually * RRSP match * Dental and Vision Care * Extending health benefits * All PPE provided * Inclusive environment _Frulact Canada is committed to supporting AODA standards and requirements. Any applicant that requires any