Production Manager

About us
George Weston Foods (NZ) Limited (GWF) is one of Australia and New Zealand's leading FMCG food manufacturers, employing more than 6,500 people across 60 sites. Our portfolio includes some of New Zealand's most recognised brands, including Tip Top Bakery, Ploughmans, Bürgen, Golden, Big Ben Pies, Dad's Pies, and ABES Bagels.

At ABES Bagels, we are passionate about producing high-quality products while fostering a culture built on safety, teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement.

About the role
We are looking for an experienced Production Manager to join our team at our St Johns bakery in Auckland on a full-time, permanent basis, 40 hours per week with flexibility to work some weekends as required.

This is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing all production operations, ensuring product quality, food safety, operational efficiency, and team performance. You will lead a production team, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and work closely with cross-functional departments to meet business objectives and customer demand.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on manufacturing leader who enjoys developing people, improving processes, and delivering results in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all daily production activities to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective operations.
• Manage production planning, scheduling, and resource allocation to achieve production targets.
• Lead, coach, and develop production team members, fostering a high-performing and engaged workforce.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, hygiene, and GMP standards.
• Drive health and safety leadership across the site, maintaining a strong safety culture.
• Monitor production performance, analyse data, and implement corrective actions where required.
• Identify and deliver continuous improvement opportunities to increase productivity and reduce waste.
• Manage production costs and support budget objectives.
• Coordinate with maintenance teams to maximise equipment reliability and minimise downtime.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain, Quality, Maintenance, and Leadership teams to meet customer and business requirements.

What we're looking for

• Proven experience as a Production Manager or in a similar manufacturing leadership role.
• Experience within food manufacturing, bakery, or FMCG environments is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, quality assurance, and manufacturing best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop teams.
• Experience in production planning, scheduling, and resource management.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• A continuous improvement mindset with experience driving operational efficiencies.
• Sound understanding of health and safety legislation and safe work practices.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience using production management systems and reporting tools is advantageous.
• Relevant food manufacturing, operations, or production qualifications are desirable.

What we offer

• Competitive salary package.
• Leadership opportunity within a well-established and growing FMCG business.
• Career development opportunities across the wider George Weston Foods Group.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Product allowances and free bagels.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on operational performance, team development, and site culture.

Apply now
We are currently accepting applications from New Zealand Citizens and Residence Class Visa holders only.

As part of our recruitment process, shortlisted applicants may be required to undergo pre-employment checks, including criminal history and drug and alcohol screening.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position may be filled before the closing date. Early applications are encouraged.

Please note: We have been made aware of fraudulent communications claiming to represent George Weston Foods. We will never offer employment without a formal recruitment process, request payment, or ask for sensitive personal information via unsolicited communications. All official correspondence will come through verified company channels.