Plant Manager, Dunsandel

Job Description About the role We’re looking for a seasoned, confident Plant Manager to take the reins of our 24/7 Nutritional&Ingredients Production operation. This isn’t a stepping-stone role. This is a senior leadership position for someone who’s already “been there, done that”. Someone who knows how to lead manufacturing plants, large teams, and drive performance through people, assets, and processes. We’ve recently implemented Integrated Work Systems (IWS) structures, reshaping the way we operate and setting the foundation for long-term success. Now, we’re looking for someone who can take us into the next phase of maturity including stabilising the team, developing frontline leaders, and instilling operational discipline and accountability.This is your opportunity to make a mark, whether you’re ready to return to plant leadership or take on another complex challenge where you can truly lead, coach, and drive results. Key Responsibilities Lead the end-to-end operations of 24/7 spray drying production plants, with accountability for safety, quality, cost, yield, and performance.Own and deliver against the Plant Master Plan, leading through structure and developing operational rhythm. Provide confident, hands-on leadership to build and maintain a high performing, engaged workforce. Coach and develop leaders at all levels - this is a role for someone who grows others and can pass over knowledge, experience, and guidance.Drive site-wide improvement initiatives aligned with IWS and continuous improvement principles. Ensure plant assets are well maintained and reliable - including spray dryers, evaporators, and utilities. Take accountability for plant financials, including P&L management, value drivers, and asset performance. Skills And Experience The ideal candidate will have the following skills and attributes: Demonstrated leadership experience running a manufacturing plant, in dairy, food, or complex processing environments. Hands-on experience with spray drying or infant formula production is required.Proven ability to lead large operational teams in a 24/7 environment, experience with how to lead shift structures, embed routines, and bring consistency. Track record in operational turnarounds or stabilising teams, exceeding performance targets, driving improvements in operational efficiency. Deep experience with continuous improvement, including IWS.Strong financial and commercial acumen with a track record of delivering results through people and process. Calm under pressure, decisive, and grounded in experience - a steady hand with a collaborative, people-first mindset. Experienced in implementing strategies that result in cost savings, productivity gains, and streamlined workflows.Expertise in food safety protocols and HACCP systems, with a commitment to maintaining compliance with industry regulations. About Us– The Synlait Way Synlait is a dynamic, purpose-led milk nutrition company that is Doing Milk Differently for a Healthier World! We pride ourselves on being different and allowing our spirit to drive our success, shifting perceptions and driving value through new thinking and a new attitude.You’ll be joining down-to-earth, authentic people working together to create the very best in milk nutrition as we combine expert farming with innovative thinking and state-of-the-art processing to produce a range of nutritional milk products for our global customers. We will challenge you by providing the opportunities you’ve been seeking to expand your career; we believe that everyone brings unique experiences and perspectives to the table, so we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and embracing diversity to drive innovation and business success.What we offer: Health insurance cover + Partnered with top brands for great benefits and discounts. Excellent parental leave with our Matua policy. World-class manufacturing facilities and B Corp™ certification. Social Club membership opportunities. What's next? Apply now! Include your most recent CV and cover letter summarising your abilities and what you can bring to Synlait. We wish you the best of luck in your application. We encourage you to apply early as we will be reviewing applications regularly and may close the advertisement early.Together we will continue to create a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their best. #J-18808-Ljbffr