Operations Manager

Introduction:
About the Company

Mildura Fruit Company packs and markets a full range of citrus from more than 120 growers in the horticultural regions of Sunraysia, Riverland and Riverina to destinations around the world.

Based in the vibrant regional city of Mildura, we have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and self-motivated Operations Manager to join our team and play a crucial part in the team’s success.

Description:
About the Role

Reporting to the General Manager, the Operations Manager will be a part of the MFC Management Team and responsible for ensuring a range of compliance matters and supply functions are in place to primarily support production.

Responsibilities will include:

• Develop and manage operations budgets and ensure appropriate controls are in place
• Manage food safety programs to ensure compliance with customer and regulatory requirements relating to HACCP, SQF, Department of Agriculture, FSANZ and local/state Government
• Assist in the maintenance of SQF 2000 quality management system and other MFC quality accreditations e.g. the AQIS Compliance Agreement, Coles, WQA and export country protocol Work Plans
• Ensure staff are aware of food safety practices and that Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are adhered to as well as the Quality Management System and Vendor Quality Manual documentation are kept current
• Manage all audit requirements with the external auditors and ensure the business is food audit ready at all times and ensure all non-compliance matters raised at audit are addressed promptly
• Proactively drive the implementation of work health and safety policies, procedures and practices in compliance of health and safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment.
• Assist in the development of documentation including but not limited to risk assessments, SWMS and ensure employees receive adequate training
• Continuously review on-site work practices, materials conditions, plant and equipment and identify health and safety hazards and ensure they are eliminated in a timely manner.
• Ensure all incidents are thoroughly investigated and corrective actions are implemented
• In conjunction with the Head Engineer and Production Manager, continually review equipment maintenance requirements and opportunities to enhance efficiencies of the packing operation.
• Develop a comprehensive proposal on shutdown plant modifications & replacement.
• Manage the completion of all approved plant additions, replacements, modifications and repairs in a time for season commencement.
• Ensure appropriate routine and preventative maintenance is carried out on plant, equipment to eliminate production downtime in season.
• Develop plans and provide recommendations for capital projects that support the growth and efficiency of the packing operation
• Prepare proposals for capital projects
• Manage the installation of all approved plant additions and replacements
• Liaise with and engage external contractors and suppliers as required to support the engineering and maintenance of the plant.
• Engage with stakeholders (staff, suppliers and customers) as appropriate to assist on delivering a sustainable operation in accordance with agreed parameters.
• Coordinate and oversee annual and longer-term supply arrangements for the business e.g. production inputs, bin supply, transport
• Ensure appropriate purchasing practices are in place and adhered to

Skills and Experiences:
Skills and Experience

• Proven experience as an Operations Manager preferably in the FMCG or Food Industry
• Knowledge of fruit industry or similar
• A strong understanding of regulations relating to work health and safety, HACCP and SQF 2000 quality management systems
• Exceptional verbal and written communication and interpersonal skill with a demonstrated ability to communicate and liaise effectively with staff and suppliers.
• Genuine commitment to providing high quality to internal and external stakeholders and to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to meet deadlines without compromising close attention to detail and accuracy
• Well developed work planning and organisation skills and demonstrated ability to address fluctuating work demands and changing priorities.
• Well-developed problem-solving skills
• Strong work ethic with a focus on results, willingness to learn and take on additional responsibilities over time

The Benefits

• Chance to fully own this role
• Superb company culture
• Supportive management
• Competitive remuneration
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)