Job Description

Our client in the Dairy industry is seeking to employ an experienced Processed Cheese Supervisor to their team based in Queenstown.
Requirements
Grade 12 / Matric
Minimum 5 years' experience in processed cheese manufacturing, including supervisory experience
Extensive technical experience in slice-on-slice cheese production (non-negotiable)
Relevant qualification in Food Technology, Dairy Processing, or equivalent (NQF 4 minimum; NQF 5+ and further dairy certifications advantageous)
In-depth understanding of FSSC 22000 V6, including implementation and audit readiness
Strong knowledge of high-care manufacturing environments and HACCP principles
Proven experience in managing production KPIs (yield, waste, quality, efficiency)
Responsibilities:
Operational Leadership
Manage all production activities within the slice-on-slice department
Plan, schedule, and monitor daily output performance
Lead Team Leaders and 15 production staff, ensuring effective manpower utilisation
Maintain adherence to production targets, efficiency standards, and customer specifications
Food Safety and Quality Compliance
Ensure compliance with FSSC 22000 (V6), internal policies, and regulatory requirements
Monitor CCPs, hygiene standards, allergen controls, and GMP compliance
Lead internal and external audits, ensuring 100% audit readiness
Performance and Cost Control
Drive yield optimisation, material control, waste reduction, and cost efficiency
Analyse departmental KPIs, variances, and corrective actions
Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce downtime
People Management and Development
Provide clear leadership, coaching, and performance management for team leaders and production staff
Ensure skills development, SOP compliance, and adherence to safety procedures
Maintain a high-performance, disciplined departmental culture
Stakeholder and Customer Interaction
Engage with Quality, Technical, Warehouse and Distribution, and SHE teams
Participate in customer visits and ensure compliance with global QSR standards
Please note that if you do not receive a response withing two weeks of applying, you many consider your application unsuccessful.

Skills Required