Head of Production Germany (m/f/d)

About the role

The Head of Production Germany is responsible for the day‑to‑day performance and continuous development of our German manufacturing site, where the majority of our flavours are produced. You will lead a multi‑shift, food‑grade operation, ensuring safety, quality, on‑time delivery and efficient use of resources.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the production organization through shift leaders and team leads across planning, manufacturing, logistics and warehousing.
• Maintain a strong shop‑floor presence, drive safety, hygiene and quality culture, and resolve issues promptly.
• Own production planning and execution in close collaboration with Supply Chain to meet OTIF, lead‑times and cost targets.
• Implement lean manufacturing, continuous‑improvement and waste‑reduction initiatives.
• Shape capacity, automation and investment agenda together with global Engineering.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental and regulatory requirements (ATEX, hazardous substances) and maintain audit readiness (FSSC 22000, IFS, GMP, HACCP).

Required profile

• Degree in Food Technology, Process/Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering or comparable qualification.
• 7+ years of production leadership in flavour, fine‑chemical or food environments with multi‑shift responsibility.
• Hands‑on experience with batch flavour manufacturing, quality standards and chemical material handling.
• Fluent German for shop‑floor communication and good English for global collaboration.
• Leadership style that combines close team interaction with clear standards and strong communication.

Required skills

• Lean manufacturing methods and daily management systems.
• Batch production processes for flavours.
• Compliance with FSSC 22000, IFS, GMP and HACCP standards.
• ATEX and hazardous substances handling.
• Production planning, capacity and resource optimization.
• Continuous‑improvement and automation implementation.