Shift Manager (Nights)
| Posting date: | 11 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | Not specified |
| Additional salary information: | £44,000 per annum |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 13 March 2026 |
| Location: | Milton Keynes |
| Company: | The Compleat Food Group |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 1636 |
Summary
Job Advert
Shift Manager (Nights)
Join Our Team at The Compleat Food Group!
We’re excited to offer an excellent opportunity for Shift Manager to join our dedicated team on night shift at our site in Milton
Keynes!
About The Compleat Food Group
At The Compleat Food Group, we’re proud to be a food business built on purpose and passion. Formed in 2021, we’re on a mission to
create Food to Feel Good - great quality, tasty and affordable food that people love to eat.
We’re home to some of the UK’s most exciting and loved food brands, including Wall’s Pastry, Pork Farms, Wrights, The Real
Yorkshire Pudding Co., unearthed, Vadasz, Squeaky Bean, Palace Culture, and Harvey & Brockless. Alongside our branded portfolio,
we’re a leading supplier of delicious own-label pastry, sweet bakery, party food, olives and antipasti, added-value egg products,
continental meats, dips and sauces and plant-based food to the UK’s major retailers, as well as across foodservice.
With over 6,000 talented colleagues across 17 sites, and an annual turnover of £1.3bn, we’re united by a shared ambition to shape
the future of food for the better.
We are backed by European private equity firm PAI Partners.
Working Hours: Sunday - Thursday: 6pm - 6am
Location: Milton Keynes
Salary: £44,000 per annum
Job Purpose:
To support the Factory Manager in overseeing the night shift operations of the high-speed production line, ensuring production
targets are met efficiently and safely.
The role involves leading the team, maintaining high standards of quality and compliance, and driving continuous improvement
within the production process. You will play a key part in ensuring smooth operations, resolving issues promptly, and contributing
to the overall performance and success of the factory.
Key Duties, Accountabilities & Responsibilities:
Health, Safety & Environment Responsibilities
* Understand the Health, Safety & Environmental Policy’s, safe rules, and statutory requirements applying to all operations under
your control.
* Ensure that all employees that you manage understand and agree to company Health & Safety rules, have receive the appropriate
Health & Safety Induction, and are instruction and the level of supervision as may be necessary to enable them to work safely,
and without injury or ill health
* Ensure that all employees you manage know the procedures for reporting accidents and know what to do in the event of a fire, or
other emergencies that may require evacuation of the workplace.
* Ensure that, where required, protective clothing and equipment is available to all employees, and that it is correctly used
* Ensure that risk assessments are undertaken to an acceptable level, and that they are reviewed as required. Ensure employees
are aware of hazards and control measures that impact them. Continually seek to reduce risk where possible.
* Ensure that new processes , products and equipment are subject to a risk assessment, and that the residual level of risk is
reduced to an acceptable level prior to launch or implementation.
* Ensure regular safety inspections and audits are undertaken to check that the Health & Safety rules and procedures are fully
implemented and adhered to at all levels across the site.
* Investigate all accidents, incidents, near misses and dangerous occurrences promptly and report the findings to the Factory
Manager, and the Health Safety & Environmental Compliance Manager
* Ensure that appropriate remedial action is taken in respect of all reported defects and complaints
* Take responsibility for all Visitors / Contractors within your area
* Ensure that good housekeeping standards are maintained
* Ensure that all equipment is properly and regularly maintained, and repaired by competent persons, and that records are
maintained of these works.
* Stop a process that is operating out of compliance or specification on legal requirements or is unsafe.
Food Safety & Quality Responsibilities
* Ensures team comply with factory dress code standards at all times. Immediately deals with non conformances. (E.g. correct hair
nets, jewellery removed, jackets buttoned correctly)
* Ensures prohibited items not being taken into factory (e.g. sweets, chewing gum, phones). Initiates pocket searches if
required.
* Ensures product produced is made to the SOP and meets customer specification.
* Works in partnership with Quality team to improve quality standards and close out non conformances within timeframe given.
* Ensures area constantly at audit standard and CAYG in place. Ensures successful audits of own area, deals promptly with any non
conformances
* Knows what HACCP is, implications in own area and ensures all appropriate controls and paperwork is in place.
* Ensures paperwork is accurate, fully completed, delivered on time and enables full traceability. Understands the legal
implications of not doing this properly.
* Ensures compliance with allergen and speciation control on changeovers. Clearly understands the health risks to consumers and
the recall implications. (e.g. product crossovers)
Leading People
* Able to effectively train, coach and mentor team members. Ensures training matrixes are up to date and all required training
and refresher training completed.
* Knows how to best motivate and retain each member of the team. Keeps team members informed of what is going on in the team.
Delivers huddle in absence of manager.
* Effectively manages time off requests balancing employee requests and business needs. Approves holidays/time off requests in
conjunction with the shift manager to ensure the department doesn’t let too many off at anyone one time/skills
* Instigates investigations when required. Able to conduct a fair and balanced investigation. Keeps report factual.
* Able to conduct an effective disciplinary hearing and grievance hearing - first stage
* Regularly reviews own performance in ensuring Ethical trading principles are embedded.
* Demonstrates honesty and transparency as to what's not working. Encourages team to do the same. Demonstrates ability to call
out any non conformance so it can be fixed
* Looks after the health and wellbeing of team members. Effectively monitors absence and follows absence processes. With the
support of HR completes return to work interviews, competent at absence reviews & OH referrals.
* Demonstrates ability to effectively reward and recognise strong performance. Effectively makes use of Hero Awards scheme. Can
also implement performance improvement plans with team members.
Key Accountabilities
* Conduct regular team briefings with the staff on matters such as OEE, plan attainment, waste, labour savings and product
quality
* Meet all KPI targets such as OEE, plan attainment, Waste, labour/manning, non-conformance, GMP and H&S
* Work on continuous improvements on the high speed line area
* Develop a dedicated work force who know their targets and are able to deliver
* Develop effective communication streams across the business and ensure the relevant meetings happen
* Support in preparation of monthly reports and participate in the relevant meetings and other routine meetings as required
* Proactively identify and implement changes in factory operations to meet the changing business needs
* Manage delivery of the production plan on time along with Production Supervisor and to the correct product quality. Focus on
the labour variance.
* Ensure Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE) information is gathered and improvement plans in place and actioned.
* Ensure a smooth running and efficient production by proactive approach and presence on the shop floor at all times.
* Be involved in NPD product trials and samples.
* Challenge factory standards in an appropriate way.
* Always monitor the quality of the products and report any non-conforming ingredients.
* Maintain to agreed GMP standards and action any non –conformances.
* To action any production non-conformances and feedback the corrective action.
* Ensure that Production supervisors are maintaining the correct manning levels, updating the staff rota and sent it on time.
* Ensure investigation to quality incidents and track action completion.
* Responsible for developing skills within the team and ensuring that training records are kept up to date.
* Ensure the skill matrix is updated to the correct skill set and succession planning take place.
* Ensure availability of materials for production preventing any shortages and downtime.
* Management and support of all direct reports ensuring their training and development take place.
* Responsible for effective absence management of the team, including completing return to work interviews and conducting absence
management meetings.
* Manage holiday authorisation process, ensuring enough trained cover is available at all times.
* Deal with any performance / conduct or grievance issues in a legally compliant and professional way.
* Responsible for conducting appraisals and probationary period reviews in accordance with company policy and probationary
periods reviews.
* Use continuous improvement methods for process optimisation and control.
* Monitor manufacturing areas to maintain continuous production and accurate completion of production runs.
* Provide effective shift handovers to other Junior Manager.
* Act as a cover in the Production Managers absence in the areas of own experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
Experience:
Previous experience of working in a Manufacturing environment (preferable).
Key Skills:
* Experience in a similar type role in Food Industry
* Strong knowledge of H&S, Food Safety, BRC standards and PPE requirements
* Strong communication skills and ability to give clear & detailed instructions
* Leading and managing large operational teams
* Ability to manage change within a diverse environment
* Excellent interpersonal, influencing, coaching and negotiating skills
* People management skills and ability to manage a diverse workforce
* Continuous improvement and quality is a core value
* Ability to effectively build and manage relationships as well as motivate staff
* Has enthusiasm and patience to develop others
* Values strong team work
* A strong customer focus
* Professional and positive attitude with a high standard of work ethics
* Proficient at producing and presenting proposals and able to demonstrate objective analytical skills and business acumen
* Self-motivated with a hands on approach and attitude
* Excellent attention to detail
* Excellent literacy and numeracy skills
* Strong Microsoft Office skills
Desirable:
* IOSH accredited
* Engineering background
* Project management skills
* Level 3 / 4 Food Safety and Hygiene
* HACCP Level 3 /4
* Auditing Skills
* Degree in food manufacturing
Qualities:
* Versatile
* Strong attitude
* Pro-active
* Energetic, and enthusiastic
* Self-motivated
* Flexible attitude
Why Join Us?
At The Compleat Food Group, we believe our people are the heart of our success. That’s why we offer a wide range of benefits
designed to support your lifestyle, wellbeing and career growth:
Financial & Lifestyle Benefits:
* Salary Sacrifice Schemes - including Electric Vehicles, Home & Tech, Cycle to Work, and SMART Pension
* Annual leave with an option to purchase extra days
* Holiday Discounts via our online retail platform
* Access to enhanced retail discounts online and in-store
* Free product handouts across our sites, so you can sample and enjoy our delicious products first hand
* EV charging points - available at selected sites
Health & Wellbeing:
* 24/7 access to Grocery Aid for free financial, emotional, and practical support
* Physical Wellbeing Hub - free on-demand exercise classes, gym discounts
* Free diet & nutrition advice with access to thousands of healthy recipes
* Online wellbeing support - from mindfulness to lifestyle resources
* Financial wellbeing tools - including mortgage calculators, budgeting tools, and financial aid
Career Growth & Development:
* Access to a personalised online learning platform (LMS)
* Formal and informal training opportunities tailored to your role
* Performance Development Plans and regular Career Conversations
* Company Mentoring Scheme to add depth and really support your career journey
* Recognition through Club Compleat rewards
Community & Culture:
* 2 paid volunteering days per year to give back to causes that matter to you
* Charity initiatives and fundraising events
* Team socials to connect and celebrate together
* Employee networks & support groups - including Women @ Compleat
* New baby gift for new parents
The Compleat Food Group fosters an inclusive, respectful culture where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued. We welcome
diverse talent, knowing it drives exceptional results and a better workplace.
We are committed to Fairness, Equity, Inclusivity, and Respect, we ensure all colleagues can thrive by bringing their whole selves
to work. As an equal opportunity’s employer, we provide all the support you need to succeed.
Contact us with any questions about Diversity & Inclusion or accessibility during the application process.
Recruitment Agencies:
We have a small, active and trusted Preferred Supplier List to assist us if required. We do not acknowledge any speculative CVs or
unsolicited candidate introductions. We only accept CV submissions for roles released to you directly by our Talent Acquisition
team.
If you would be interested in working with us please send a message to recruitment@compleatfood.com
[recruitment@compleatfood.com] and should we have any roles we need additional support with we will reach out to you.
Shift Manager (Nights)
Join Our Team at The Compleat Food Group!
We’re excited to offer an excellent opportunity for Shift Manager to join our dedicated team on night shift at our site in Milton
Keynes!
About The Compleat Food Group
At The Compleat Food Group, we’re proud to be a food business built on purpose and passion. Formed in 2021, we’re on a mission to
create Food to Feel Good - great quality, tasty and affordable food that people love to eat.
We’re home to some of the UK’s most exciting and loved food brands, including Wall’s Pastry, Pork Farms, Wrights, The Real
Yorkshire Pudding Co., unearthed, Vadasz, Squeaky Bean, Palace Culture, and Harvey & Brockless. Alongside our branded portfolio,
we’re a leading supplier of delicious own-label pastry, sweet bakery, party food, olives and antipasti, added-value egg products,
continental meats, dips and sauces and plant-based food to the UK’s major retailers, as well as across foodservice.
With over 6,000 talented colleagues across 17 sites, and an annual turnover of £1.3bn, we’re united by a shared ambition to shape
the future of food for the better.
We are backed by European private equity firm PAI Partners.
Working Hours: Sunday - Thursday: 6pm - 6am
Location: Milton Keynes
Salary: £44,000 per annum
Job Purpose:
To support the Factory Manager in overseeing the night shift operations of the high-speed production line, ensuring production
targets are met efficiently and safely.
The role involves leading the team, maintaining high standards of quality and compliance, and driving continuous improvement
within the production process. You will play a key part in ensuring smooth operations, resolving issues promptly, and contributing
to the overall performance and success of the factory.
Key Duties, Accountabilities & Responsibilities:
Health, Safety & Environment Responsibilities
* Understand the Health, Safety & Environmental Policy’s, safe rules, and statutory requirements applying to all operations under
your control.
* Ensure that all employees that you manage understand and agree to company Health & Safety rules, have receive the appropriate
Health & Safety Induction, and are instruction and the level of supervision as may be necessary to enable them to work safely,
and without injury or ill health
* Ensure that all employees you manage know the procedures for reporting accidents and know what to do in the event of a fire, or
other emergencies that may require evacuation of the workplace.
* Ensure that, where required, protective clothing and equipment is available to all employees, and that it is correctly used
* Ensure that risk assessments are undertaken to an acceptable level, and that they are reviewed as required. Ensure employees
are aware of hazards and control measures that impact them. Continually seek to reduce risk where possible.
* Ensure that new processes , products and equipment are subject to a risk assessment, and that the residual level of risk is
reduced to an acceptable level prior to launch or implementation.
* Ensure regular safety inspections and audits are undertaken to check that the Health & Safety rules and procedures are fully
implemented and adhered to at all levels across the site.
* Investigate all accidents, incidents, near misses and dangerous occurrences promptly and report the findings to the Factory
Manager, and the Health Safety & Environmental Compliance Manager
* Ensure that appropriate remedial action is taken in respect of all reported defects and complaints
* Take responsibility for all Visitors / Contractors within your area
* Ensure that good housekeeping standards are maintained
* Ensure that all equipment is properly and regularly maintained, and repaired by competent persons, and that records are
maintained of these works.
* Stop a process that is operating out of compliance or specification on legal requirements or is unsafe.
Food Safety & Quality Responsibilities
* Ensures team comply with factory dress code standards at all times. Immediately deals with non conformances. (E.g. correct hair
nets, jewellery removed, jackets buttoned correctly)
* Ensures prohibited items not being taken into factory (e.g. sweets, chewing gum, phones). Initiates pocket searches if
required.
* Ensures product produced is made to the SOP and meets customer specification.
* Works in partnership with Quality team to improve quality standards and close out non conformances within timeframe given.
* Ensures area constantly at audit standard and CAYG in place. Ensures successful audits of own area, deals promptly with any non
conformances
* Knows what HACCP is, implications in own area and ensures all appropriate controls and paperwork is in place.
* Ensures paperwork is accurate, fully completed, delivered on time and enables full traceability. Understands the legal
implications of not doing this properly.
* Ensures compliance with allergen and speciation control on changeovers. Clearly understands the health risks to consumers and
the recall implications. (e.g. product crossovers)
Leading People
* Able to effectively train, coach and mentor team members. Ensures training matrixes are up to date and all required training
and refresher training completed.
* Knows how to best motivate and retain each member of the team. Keeps team members informed of what is going on in the team.
Delivers huddle in absence of manager.
* Effectively manages time off requests balancing employee requests and business needs. Approves holidays/time off requests in
conjunction with the shift manager to ensure the department doesn’t let too many off at anyone one time/skills
* Instigates investigations when required. Able to conduct a fair and balanced investigation. Keeps report factual.
* Able to conduct an effective disciplinary hearing and grievance hearing - first stage
* Regularly reviews own performance in ensuring Ethical trading principles are embedded.
* Demonstrates honesty and transparency as to what's not working. Encourages team to do the same. Demonstrates ability to call
out any non conformance so it can be fixed
* Looks after the health and wellbeing of team members. Effectively monitors absence and follows absence processes. With the
support of HR completes return to work interviews, competent at absence reviews & OH referrals.
* Demonstrates ability to effectively reward and recognise strong performance. Effectively makes use of Hero Awards scheme. Can
also implement performance improvement plans with team members.
Key Accountabilities
* Conduct regular team briefings with the staff on matters such as OEE, plan attainment, waste, labour savings and product
quality
* Meet all KPI targets such as OEE, plan attainment, Waste, labour/manning, non-conformance, GMP and H&S
* Work on continuous improvements on the high speed line area
* Develop a dedicated work force who know their targets and are able to deliver
* Develop effective communication streams across the business and ensure the relevant meetings happen
* Support in preparation of monthly reports and participate in the relevant meetings and other routine meetings as required
* Proactively identify and implement changes in factory operations to meet the changing business needs
* Manage delivery of the production plan on time along with Production Supervisor and to the correct product quality. Focus on
the labour variance.
* Ensure Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE) information is gathered and improvement plans in place and actioned.
* Ensure a smooth running and efficient production by proactive approach and presence on the shop floor at all times.
* Be involved in NPD product trials and samples.
* Challenge factory standards in an appropriate way.
* Always monitor the quality of the products and report any non-conforming ingredients.
* Maintain to agreed GMP standards and action any non –conformances.
* To action any production non-conformances and feedback the corrective action.
* Ensure that Production supervisors are maintaining the correct manning levels, updating the staff rota and sent it on time.
* Ensure investigation to quality incidents and track action completion.
* Responsible for developing skills within the team and ensuring that training records are kept up to date.
* Ensure the skill matrix is updated to the correct skill set and succession planning take place.
* Ensure availability of materials for production preventing any shortages and downtime.
* Management and support of all direct reports ensuring their training and development take place.
* Responsible for effective absence management of the team, including completing return to work interviews and conducting absence
management meetings.
* Manage holiday authorisation process, ensuring enough trained cover is available at all times.
* Deal with any performance / conduct or grievance issues in a legally compliant and professional way.
* Responsible for conducting appraisals and probationary period reviews in accordance with company policy and probationary
periods reviews.
* Use continuous improvement methods for process optimisation and control.
* Monitor manufacturing areas to maintain continuous production and accurate completion of production runs.
* Provide effective shift handovers to other Junior Manager.
* Act as a cover in the Production Managers absence in the areas of own experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
Experience:
Previous experience of working in a Manufacturing environment (preferable).
Key Skills:
* Experience in a similar type role in Food Industry
* Strong knowledge of H&S, Food Safety, BRC standards and PPE requirements
* Strong communication skills and ability to give clear & detailed instructions
* Leading and managing large operational teams
* Ability to manage change within a diverse environment
* Excellent interpersonal, influencing, coaching and negotiating skills
* People management skills and ability to manage a diverse workforce
* Continuous improvement and quality is a core value
* Ability to effectively build and manage relationships as well as motivate staff
* Has enthusiasm and patience to develop others
* Values strong team work
* A strong customer focus
* Professional and positive attitude with a high standard of work ethics
* Proficient at producing and presenting proposals and able to demonstrate objective analytical skills and business acumen
* Self-motivated with a hands on approach and attitude
* Excellent attention to detail
* Excellent literacy and numeracy skills
* Strong Microsoft Office skills
Desirable:
* IOSH accredited
* Engineering background
* Project management skills
* Level 3 / 4 Food Safety and Hygiene
* HACCP Level 3 /4
* Auditing Skills
* Degree in food manufacturing
Qualities:
* Versatile
* Strong attitude
* Pro-active
* Energetic, and enthusiastic
* Self-motivated
* Flexible attitude
Why Join Us?
At The Compleat Food Group, we believe our people are the heart of our success. That’s why we offer a wide range of benefits
designed to support your lifestyle, wellbeing and career growth:
Financial & Lifestyle Benefits:
* Salary Sacrifice Schemes - including Electric Vehicles, Home & Tech, Cycle to Work, and SMART Pension
* Annual leave with an option to purchase extra days
* Holiday Discounts via our online retail platform
* Access to enhanced retail discounts online and in-store
* Free product handouts across our sites, so you can sample and enjoy our delicious products first hand
* EV charging points - available at selected sites
Health & Wellbeing:
* 24/7 access to Grocery Aid for free financial, emotional, and practical support
* Physical Wellbeing Hub - free on-demand exercise classes, gym discounts
* Free diet & nutrition advice with access to thousands of healthy recipes
* Online wellbeing support - from mindfulness to lifestyle resources
* Financial wellbeing tools - including mortgage calculators, budgeting tools, and financial aid
Career Growth & Development:
* Access to a personalised online learning platform (LMS)
* Formal and informal training opportunities tailored to your role
* Performance Development Plans and regular Career Conversations
* Company Mentoring Scheme to add depth and really support your career journey
* Recognition through Club Compleat rewards
Community & Culture:
* 2 paid volunteering days per year to give back to causes that matter to you
* Charity initiatives and fundraising events
* Team socials to connect and celebrate together
* Employee networks & support groups - including Women @ Compleat
* New baby gift for new parents
The Compleat Food Group fosters an inclusive, respectful culture where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued. We welcome
diverse talent, knowing it drives exceptional results and a better workplace.
We are committed to Fairness, Equity, Inclusivity, and Respect, we ensure all colleagues can thrive by bringing their whole selves
to work. As an equal opportunity’s employer, we provide all the support you need to succeed.
Contact us with any questions about Diversity & Inclusion or accessibility during the application process.
Recruitment Agencies:
We have a small, active and trusted Preferred Supplier List to assist us if required. We do not acknowledge any speculative CVs or
unsolicited candidate introductions. We only accept CV submissions for roles released to you directly by our Talent Acquisition
team.
If you would be interested in working with us please send a message to recruitment@compleatfood.com
[recruitment@compleatfood.com] and should we have any roles we need additional support with we will reach out to you.