Lead Operative


Company:	New Appointments Group Ltd
Salary:	£30,420 to £34,476 a year
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	Ashford, TN23 1EZ
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	2 Sept 2026
Closing date:	2 Oct 2026

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Summary

Job title: Lead Operative

Location: Ashford (must be a driver due to location)

Salary: up to £34,476

Hours: Monday to Friday, with an early finish on Fridays

(alternate Saturday's will be required during peak)

The role:

We are looking for a hands-on Team Leader to join our client's growing team. This is a newly created position for someone to really make their own. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who can lead from the front but that wants to remain hands-on.

Benefits:

23 days annual leave + bank holidays

Christmas shutdown (annual leave must be reserved)

Overtime paid at x1.5

Free parking on site

Key responsibilities would be:

Organise the team and delegate daily tasks effectively.

Oversee day-to-day operations and the running of production.

Provide training, support and motivation to team members where required.

Manage additional agency labour during peak periods.

Ensure quality standards are maintained throughout each stage of production.

Maintain a smooth workflow and ensure the efficient use of labour.

Plan labour requirements in advance where possible and liaise with recruitment agencies.

Ensure Health & Safety standards and procedures are followed across the site.

Review and update risk assessments alongside the Production Director.

Identify and implement opportunities for improvements.

Experience and skills required:

Previous experience as a Supervisor, Line Leader, Shift Lead or Team Leader

Experience within FMCG, manufacturing, production or a fresh produce environment

A hands-on approach, with the willingness to work alongside the team

Strong organisational and people-management skills

A full UK driving licence

A manual forklift licence would be desirable but is not essential

Please note - this role can involve working outdoors in all weather conditions, so applicants must be comfortable working outside.

Next steps:

If this sounds like the ideal position for you and you have the experience outlined above, then please apply and you will be contacted by a member of our team if your CV matches our requirements.

If you would like any further information before applying, then please call Ellie - Permanent Consultant on 01304 806053 or email

e.gawn@newappointmentsgroup.co.uk

New Appointments Group, Expertly Matching Employers and Jobseekers since 1975.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment in line with the Equality Act 2010. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. New Appointments Group acts as an Employment Agency for permanent roles and as an Employment Business for temporary roles.

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