Assistant Production Manager

Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) is seeking a passionate Assistant Production Manager. From stewarding to stock movement, this role is at the core of keeping things clean, compliant, and fully stocked; so, every plate takes off perfectly.

Job Purpose:

To execute the daily production plan by managing material flow from the kitchen and ensuring dishing targets are met in full and on time. The role leads shift-wise Team Leaders to ensure seamless handovers and make real-time production adjustments based on sales demand. It aims to drive consistent performance, maintain high product quality, and meet operational targets.

Key Result Areas:

1. Conduct regular risk assessments, investigate incidents promptly, and enforce compliance with safety protocols to maintain a hazard and injury free work environment.
2. Manage and monitor daily production activities by allocating resources effectively, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring timely product delivery with consistent quality standards.
3. Plan staff schedules, lead performance appraisals, provide targeted training and coaching, and resolve conflicts to optimize team performance and maintain high engagement.
4. Collaborate with Organizational Effectiveness team in order to identify lean principles and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process efficiency, improve yields, minimize waste, and ensure operational consistency.
5. Enforce hygiene and food safety standards through regular audits, address non-conformances and implement timely corrective actions.
6. Track key operational metrics, monitor equipment-related losses, and coordinate maintenance activities to maximize uptime and minimize disruptions.
7. Collaborate with Menu Development and cross-functional teams during product trials and rollouts, ensuring workforce readiness, proper training, and smooth production integration.
8. Monitor and control planned labor hours, reduce unplanned overtime, and implement cost-saving measures without compromising production timelines or quality.
9. Liaise with Supply Chain, Menu Development, and Safety teams to align production schedules, ensure material availability and meet compliance requirements.
10. Build a high-performing team by promoting a positive work culture, recognizing achievements, supporting career growth and reducing staff turnover.

Minimum Education, Experience & Skills:

Education Qualification :

a) Bachelors degree in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Food Science or a related field

Work Experience:

a) Minimum 6 years of experience in a supervisory role within a high volume FMCG or food manufacturing environment.

b) Proven experience implementing lean manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, Six Sigma) with measurable results.

Skills:

a) Proven problem-solving ability with a history of driving continuous improvement initiatives.

b) Strong leadership skills with excellent interpersonal abilities to motivate and guide teams.

c) Skilled in data analysis, tracking KPIs, and using metrics to drive performance improvements.

d) Proficient in production management software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office application.

e) Exceptional focus on ensuring compliance with safety, quality, and productivity standards.

f) Skilled at anticipating challenges, identifying areas for improvement, and taking initiative to implement effective changes.

g) Able to thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments and adapt quickly to evolving production needs.