JOB SUMMARY

We are hiring for a Production Manager role just outside of Listowel.

AES (Agency Employment Services) is a Canadian employer of record, PEO partner, and licensed Ontario staffing agency with 20+ years of HR, payroll and legal compliance expertise. With a responsive HR support team based across southwestern Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area, we provide local and international clients with outsourced fractional HR services, back-office support, and customized workforce solutions to help simplify the complex employer landscape.

We specialize in recruiting and onboarding, employment contracts, payroll, HR, benefits administration, and employment standards compliance. Whether acting as an Employer of Record, or supporting clients with staff, payroll or fractional HR back-office coverage for their Canadian operations, AES delivers practical expertise and tailored solutions to meet clients’ complex workforce needs.

ABOUT THE POSITION

We are seeking a strong people leader with a passion for production excellence and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate brings a hands-on leadership style and thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, effectively balancing operational priorities with team development. This role is responsible for leading plant processing and packaging operations while ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, productivity, and regulatory compliance are consistently achieved. The successful candidate will be highly organized, results-driven, and committed to fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Strong communication skills and the ability to build relationships across all levels of the organization are essential to driving operational success and supporting long-term business objectives.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Lead all plant processing and packaging activities, ensuring products are safe, high quality, and meet company standards
• Analyze and report on yields, component usage, quality, cost savings, and recipe conformance
• Lead, coach, and develop team members, including performance feedback and formal evaluations
• Develop and execute departmental KPIs and business plans aligned with overall plant strategy
• Monitor performance and report on deviations, implementing corrective actions as needed
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, food safety, and EHS standards (e.g., HACCP, CFIA, OSHA)
• Identify and eliminate hazards while promoting a strong health and safety culture
• Lead and maintain the SQF system and plant quality programs
• Develop and manage departmental budgets and resources to meet financial targets
• Ensure SOPs are developed, implemented, and audited for compliance across safety, quality, cost, and delivery
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and implement process enhancements on the shop floor
• Develop production and packaging plans to optimize efficiency and cost control
• Oversee plant maintenance and facility standards to support food safety and operational effectiveness
• Maintain and support Business Continuity Plans, including cross-training and emergency preparedness
• Foster a continuous improvement culture and support LEAN initiatives across departments
• Verify food safety and quality documentation
• Support capital investments, technology upgrades, and equipment improvements
• Build and maintain relationships with external stakeholders, including regulatory agencies
• Act as Asset Protection Management designate, ensuring adherence to the company Code of Practice
• Support health and safety programs, including reporting hazards, incidents, and corrective actions
• Lead teams in alignment with the companies “Our Leadership” principles
• Promote an outside-in mindset, ensuring a strong internal and external customer focus

REQUIREMENTS / CERTIFICATIONS

• Minimum 2 years of dairy or food production experience
• Minimum 2 years of management or leadership experience
• Post-secondary