Operations Manager for a Beer and Beverage Producer

The Manager of Operations at Amundsen Brewery will oversee our 3500m2 beverage production facility’s day-to-day operational functions, ensuring production planning, efficient production, quality control, supply chain management, inventory, warehousing, preventative maintenance and safety standards among all departments. You will manage a small team and through exceptional communication skills you should be able to teach, motivate and follow up your team, lead by example, and handle team management challenges. This role requires strong leadership, extensive experience, an in-depth understanding of the beverage and production processes, and the ability to optimize workflows while maintaining a high level of product quality and service. The Manager of Operations, will report to the general manager and work closely with him to implement strategies for growth, profitability, and continuous improvement. You are a strategic thinker who can both develop, communicate and execute a strong vision for the future. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Oversee all departmental aspects of the facility, including the brewing operations, product cellaring, packaging lines, warehouse logistics, webshop and supporting operations to help secure a positive, safe and healthy working environment.

• Lead and manage cross-functional teams, ensuring that production goals, timelines, safety standards, quality benchmarks, and max efficiency in daily operations are consistently exceeded. 

• Work closely with the brewing/packaging team, warehouse to establish and follow up reliable preventative maintenance schedules, troubleshoot issues, solve production challenges, and maintain consistent and continuous product quality.

• Oversee raw material sourcing for production as well as our webshop, inventory management, and supplier relationships to ensure adequate stock levels and timely deliveries.

• Work with procurement to optimize the cost of raw materials while maintaining quality and a high level of customer satisfaction.

• You will play a pivotal role in driving innovation and recipe development with the aim of pushing boundaries and developing world class products as well as refining current offerings. You will work closely with the general manager and lead brewer on new product development from beer to sodas, cocktails and RTD´s.

• Maintain oversight on all aspects of production from product development, procurement, planning, production, packaging, warehousing and sales and ensure accurate and efficient data flow among all relevant departments.

• Stock management and monthly stock takes.

• Work with the generale manager to identify areas to reduce costs and increase efficiency without compromising on quality or consistency.  

• Continuously evaluate and improve operational processes to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.

• Ensure the facility complies with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards while working with local agencies to maintain compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

• Develop and enforce safety policies to protect employees and ensure a safe work environment for staff.

• Conduct performance reviews, provide feedback, and identify opportunities for team members’ growth and development.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in beverage operations or a similar manufacturing environment, with at least 3–5 years in a senior leadership role.

• Strong experience in brewing processes, production management, quality assurance, and supply chain management.

• Proven track record of managing effective teams, implementing operational improvements, and driving business results.

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Work language is English. Norwegian language skills are beneficial, but not mandatory. Ability to motivate, educate and lead a team. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions. 

• In-depth understanding of manufacturing equipment, brewing techniques, and safety standards.

• Strong ability to follow and stay on top of international trends and the eagerness to read up and self educate on new processes, products and equipment.

• Experience with HACCP, Health and Safety regulations, CRM systems, production planning software, and inventory management tools and help the brewery implement some of these.

• Strong financial acumen with experience in budget development and cost control.

• Training on local regulations and licensing requirements will be given.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in a brewery, manufacturing facility.

• Ability to fill in various roles in the brewery should the need occur.

• Flexibility to represent the brewery at festivals and events during evenings and weekends if required

EXTRAS:

• Pension plan

• Competitive salary based on experience