Abattoir Manager

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee end-to-end abattoir and meat processing operations. The role focuses on livestock procurement, production efficiency, cost control, food safety compliance, and team leadership.

Key Responsibilities:

• Livestock Procurement & Costing
  
  • Source and procure livestock aligned with production needs.
  • Build supplier relationships and negotiate pricing.
  • Monitor market trends, manage supply planning, and control input costs.
• Production & Systems Management
  
  • Oversee stock control, yield tracking, and system reconciliation.
  • Ensure accurate costing, margin tracking, and reporting.
  • Maintain pricing structures and support sales administration.
• Operations & Staff Management
  
  • Lead and optimise workforce across departments.
  • Improve production flow, efficiency, and FIFO stock control.
  • Implement training plans and cross-skilling initiatives.
• Logistics, Fleet & Maintenance
  
  • Manage distribution schedules and logistics coordination.
  • Oversee fleet maintenance, compliance, and hygiene standards.
  • Supervise maintenance planning and service providers.
• Offal & Value-Added Production
  • Improve offal processing efficiency and hygiene
  • Develop packaging systems and new product opportunities (including by-products)
• Food Safety & Compliance
  
  • Ensure full compliance with health, safety, and HACCP standards
  • Lead food safety reviews and maintain regulatory requirements
• Continuous Improvement
  
  • Drive operational improvements, cost reduction, and waste minimisation
  • Implement systems to improve productivity and profitability

Key Competencies:

• Operational leadership
• Process improvement
• Financial and yield analysis
• Staff development
• Attention to detail
• Food safety compliance
• Logistics coordination

Minimum Requirements:

• Diploma/Degree in Agriculture, Food Science, Meat Technology, Operations Management, or related field (preferred)
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in abattoir, meat processing, or food production
• Strong knowledge of meat processing, carcass utilisation, and yield management
• Experience with stock control systems and production software
• Sound knowledge of HACCP and food safety standards
• Strong leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills