Production Manager

Kepak Group is one of Europe's most innovative and best-known food producers, with manufacturing sites across Ireland and the UK. We are committed to providing high-quality meat products while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and animal welfare.

We are currently seeking an experienced Abattoir Manager to lead and manage our abattoir operations.. As the Abattoir Manager, you will take the lead in overseeing the entire abattoir operation, ensuring every aspect runs smoothly and meets compliance standards. You'll play a key role in managing slaughter, processing, hygiene, health & safety, animal welfare, and staffing, all while upholding the highest levels of quality and legal requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily abattoir operations to ensure production targets are met safely and efficiently
• Manage slaughter and processing schedules to maximise throughput while maintaining quality
• Monitor KPIs including yield, downtime, efficiency, and cost control
• Ensure full compliance with all relevant legislation, including:
• Food Hygiene Regulations
• Animal Welfare
• Health & Safety legislation
• Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) / EU regulations
• Act as the main point of contact for veterinary inspectors and regulatory bodies
• Maintain accurate records, audits, and traceability documentation
• Implement and maintain HACCP, GMP, and food safety systems
• Ensure hygiene standards meet or exceed audit and customer requirements
• Lead corrective actions following audits, inspections, or non-conformances
• Promote a strong food safety and quality culture across the site
• Lead, manage, and develop supervisory and operational teams
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and efficiency gains
• Support capital projects, equipment upgrades, and process changes as required

Requirements

• Proven experience managing abattoir or meat processing operations in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop a diverse team.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, animal welfare standards, and health & safety compliance relevant to abattoir operations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage production schedules, control costs, and meet quality targets.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to implement continuous improvement practices.

Benefits

• Company Pension
• Paid Maternity Leave
• Subsidized Canteen
• Day Shift Available
• Further Education support - You’ll have clear pathways for advancement, supported by continuous professional development and a range of learning opportunities
• Employee Discount Platform - All Kepak employees are entitled to access to the WrkIt platform, which offers significant discounts and cashback with hundreds of brands.
• Refer a Friend Scheme - Get up to €500 for successfully referring a friend or family member to Kepak Group.
• Bike to Work Scheme - Purchase a bike and safety equipment through a salary sacrifice scheme which reduces your taxable income – meaning you pay less tax!
• Long Service Awards - We recognise, acknowledge and award the dedication and valuable contribution of long serving employees