Oceania Meat Processors is a premium multi-species pet food ingredient manufacturer.
OMP is a part of Ridley which has been an integral part of Australian agriculture for over 30 years. Our purpose is to lead animal nutrition by solving the production challenges of today and tomorrow.
We believe:
Meaningful change happens through meaningful partnerships
Feed needs to be viewed as part of an end-to-end Ecosystem
Animal Nutrition is the key to more sustainable and profitable farming
About Ridley
At Ridley, we are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every employee feels valued and respected. For over 30 years, Ridley has been a cornerstone of Australian agriculture, committed to delivering high-quality products while cultivating a culture of collaboration and innovation.
What's on offer?
We are currently seeking an experienced Production Manager to join our team in Timaru. Reporting to the site manager, you’ll take the lead in managing our processing plant operations, ensuring that production runs efficiently, cost-effectively, and meets our high standards for quality and delivery timelines. This is a hands-on leadership role where your expertise in commercial management and team coordination will be key to driving continuous improvement across the production process.
In return for your skills and commitment, Oceania Meat Processors offers a supportive team environment, great culture and excellent benefits.
The key responsibilities for this position include:
Ensure full compliance with OHS/WHS legislation and Ridley’s safety systems by fostering a safety-first culture, overseeing hazard and incident management, and driving team engagement in health, safety, and wellness initiatives.
Lead, coach, and develop direct reports through performance management, training, and clear alignment of individual responsibilities with Ridley’s strategic objectives.
Manage end-to-end production operations by analysing plant performance, ensuring resource availability, resolving operational issues, and supporting continuous operational readiness.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, and Commercial teams to enhance plant reliability, implement safe work procedures, and resolve customer-related production concerns.
Oversee quality compliance by monitoring performance, driving corrective actions, maintaining product traceability, and ensuring staff are trained and systems are effectively used
Drive continuous improvement through strategic initiatives aimed at boosting efficiency, minimising waste, implementing automation, and supporting capital and growth projects.
The key skills and experience required for this role include.
Demonstrated experience managing, leading and developing employees in a production environment
Demonstrated experience with production planning, control and measurement methodologies
Sound knowledge of relevant OH\&S and Environmental policies, legislation, and other statutory management standards and requirements
Experience in safety \& quality management systems
Current driver’s license
Organised and methodical
Strong communication skills
How to apply
If this is you, please visit www.ridley.com.au/about/vacancies and provide both your resume and cover letter. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undertake a comprehensive pre-employment medical (including drug and alcohol testing). Open to new applicants with unrestricted work rights in New Zealand.
There are big advantages that come with Ridley being Australia’s largest and leading animal nutrition company. These include opportunities to move and grow within the business and also extends to having the right tools and resources to get the job done.
We are focused on working with, and attracting the best talent, not just in Australia, but in the world. Ridley prides itself on being an equal opportunity employer.