Production Manager

About the Role

PRODUCTION MANAGER Tootsie Roll of Canada/Concord Confections, maker of Dubble Bubble gum and other confectionery products, is seeking an experienced Production Manager to lead site operations from material receipt through shipment. The role is accountable for production schedules, productivity, cost, quality, food safety, health and safety, inventory, administration, receiving, and shipping. The Production Manager will coach Production Supervisors and partner across functions to improve performance continuously.

Responsibilities

Compliance & Food Safety

• Plan, direct, and coordinate operations in compliance with company, customer, SQF, CFIA, FDA, Kosher, and applicable federal/provincial/local regulations
• Maintain the food safety plan and uphold food quality standards; escalate food safety concerns to authorized personnel and food defense issues to Food Safety & Quality
• Foster a strong food safety culture across all shifts
• Ensure production meets all food safety and quality requirements and that established protocols are followed across every shift.
• Ensure compliance with Safety and Environmental requirements

Team Leadership & Workforce Management

• Coach and manage Production Supervisors and department staff; ensure understanding of and adherence to safety procedures, GMP, housekeeping standards, the union CBA, and SOPs
• Develop and implement personal development plans for Supervisors; monitor performance and take corrective action as needed
• Prepare management reviews for all direct reports
• Cover the Production Supervisor role during supervisor’s vacations, absences, or as needed on any shift
• Ensure Supervisors lead all hourly staff on site effectively and efficiently
• Deploy staff and other resources effectively across all shifts.
• Oversee front desk/administrative staff to ensure timely task completion
• Support production and other business needs, including working during evenings and weekends when required

Production & Operations

• Maximize line efficiency and effective use of materials, staff, and resources across all shifts
• Communicate promptly, troubleshoot issues, and address operational gaps and concerns.
• Coordinate and optimize production schedules, staffing, and material requirements end-to-end (receiving through shipment)
• Monitor and improve startup, changeover, shutdown, run efficiency, material usage, downtime, and other production costs
• Develop and maintain data on production capacity, line speeds/outputs, efficiencies, staffing, and line set points
• Write SOPs and work instructions; deliver training and cross-training
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement initiatives, R&D activities, capacity analysis, and equipment/operational improvements
• Audit processes, identify gaps, and ensure cross-shift compliance
• Collaborate across departments to resolve issues and improve manufacturing operations, including coordinating with Maintenance to complete required work.
• Investigate and evaluate new processes, protocols, equipment, and layouts
• Manage time and attendance program, and ensure accuracy & timely input of information
• Conduct inventory counts and internal audits across the site

Safety & Culture

• Maintain a safe, efficient work environment; lead investigations and root cause analysis
• Drive continuous health & safety improvements
• Engage the team for improved performance through feedback, recognition, and communication

Systems & Reporting

• Accurately and promptly maintain production, inventory, staffing, and reporting data in company systems
• Ensure batch, ingredients and inventory information is entered accurately and on time. Address gaps promptly.
• Provide timely communication and reporting on projects, issues, and operational gaps

Flexibility

• Train at both Concord sites to enable working at either site, as and when required. Commute to either site as and when required.
• Perform other duties as assigned at either site

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Science, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field
• 5+ years of management experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably food or beverage
• Prior Production Manager experience; leading a team of production supervisors, lead hands, and other staff in a unionized environment
• Strong background in production/material/labor scheduling, cost management, continuous improvement, and inventory management
• Strong analytical, planning, and troubleshooting abilities
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, with strong Excel skills (VLOOKUP, pivot tables) and data analysis/presentation
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and motivate a diverse workforce; skilled in driving organizational change
• Able to lift/move up to 25 lbs
• Able to stand and work on feet for extended periods
• Able to work at elevated heights (ladder/platform), climb stairs, and lean over equipment
• Frequent handling, gripping, bending, and stooping