Function: Supply Chain
Location: Factory
Work Level: WL1
Reports to: Operations Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time
About Unilever
Unilever is a global leader in consumer goods, impacting 3.4 billion people across 190 countries every single day. With some of the most iconic brands worldwide, Unilever is committed to improving lives, driving sustainability, and making a positive difference in the communities it serves.
Guided by its purpose, “to make sustainable living commonplace,” Unilever believes that responsible business practices drive superior performance and long-term growth.
At Unilever, careers are built on inclusivity, collaboration, and flexibility, ensuring that every employee has the tools and environment to shape their unique future.
Job Purpose
The Shifts Manager – Foods plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless manufacturing operations while meeting key production targets. The role focuses on volume, cost efficiency, quality, safety, and other operational KPIs.
This is a leadership position that requires excellent planning, people management, and process improvement skills to ensure a world-class manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
As a Shifts Manager – Foods, you will be responsible for:
1. Planning & Operations
- Plan making and packing operations to meet production goals for quality, cost, and reliability.
- Ensure timely receipt and proper handling of chemicals and packaging materials.
2. Team Leadership
- Manage operators, technicians, and contract staff, ensuring the right balance of skills and workforce numbers.
- Identify skill gaps and coordinate training programs for team development.
3. Efficiency & Waste Reduction
- Monitor material usage and minimize waste.
- Ensure accurate record-keeping to control material variance and optimize chemical and packaging use.
4. Stock & Inventory Management
- Supervise weekly and monthly stock counts.
- Oversee Fourth Shift transactions for accurate reporting and control.
5. Safety & Compliance
- Promote a safe workplace by enforcing health, safety, and environmental protocols.
- Ensure all employees wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE).
6. Process Improvement
- Drive autonomous maintenance activities on the shop floor.
- Implement best practices like TPM, HACCP, and follow up on audit recommendations.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational processes.
Qualifications and Experience
To be considered for this role, you need:
- Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Sciences.
- Experience:
- Minimum 2 years of production floor experience, ideally in FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods).
- Knowledge of supply chain operations, including planning and SAP systems.
- Expertise in managing safety, health, and environmental standards on the shop floor.
- Core Skills:
- Leadership skills to manage and inspire large teams.
- Strong networking and interpersonal abilities.
- Analytical mindset for data-driven decision-making.
Leadership Qualities
Unilever is looking for a leader who:
- Delivers high performance with resilience.
- Demonstrates humility and a service-oriented mindset.
- Continuously seeks innovation and improvement through collaboration.
- Prioritizes personal growth and team development.
Standards of Leadership (SOL) Behaviors
- Passion for High Performance:
Ownership and accountability for results, using data-driven decisions. - Personal Mastery:
Builds resilience while setting high personal and professional standards. - Consumer Love:
Constantly strives to improve products and services for consumers. - Purpose & Service:
Leads with humility, focusing on serving others within and outside the organization. - Agility:
Adapts quickly to change while continuously learning and growing.
Why Join Unilever?
- Work for a global powerhouse with iconic brands.
- Be part of a diverse and inclusive culture that values individuality.
- Access career development opportunities and international exposure.
- Contribute to sustainable initiatives that make a real difference.
Unilever encourages applicants to bring their whole selves to work and is committed to supporting employees throughout their career journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the location of this role?
The position is based at Unilever’s factory, with operations involving direct production and supply chain management.
2. Who does the Shifts Manager report to?
The Shifts Manager will report directly to the Operations Manager.
3. What is the minimum education requirement?
Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Sciences.
4. How much experience is required?
A minimum of 2 years of production floor experience is required, preferably in the FMCG sector.
5. Does this role require experience with SAP systems?
Yes, familiarity with SAP and supply chain planning processes is preferred.
6. What are the key challenges of this role?
- Meeting production targets while maintaining quality and safety standards.
- Managing a diverse team of operators and technicians.
- Driving continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and increase efficiency.
7. Does Unilever support diversity and inclusion?
Absolutely! Unilever is deeply committed to equity, inclusion, and diversity, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants.
8. How can I apply for this job?
Candidates should apply through Unilever’s official careers portal or job posting channels. Make sure to include a well-tailored CV and cover letter.
Conclusion
The Shifts Manager – Foods role at Unilever is an exceptional opportunity for professionals with experience in manufacturing operations and team leadership. This position offers the chance to work with one of the world’s leading FMCG companies, make a tangible impact, and grow within a global organization that values sustainability, diversity, and innovation.
If you are passionate about operations excellence and people development, this could be the next big step in your career.