Description
Who We Are
At Moondarra Cheese, we are Australia’s No.1 manufacturer of soft and creamy, flavoured cheese. Established in 1999 and based in Dandenong South, we are a thriving, family-owned business with a passion for cheese that extends to our recent acquisition of Tarago Cheese in Neerim South.
With a strong commitment to quality and innovation, we continuously invest in new technology and process improvements to maintain our industry-leading standards.
About the Role
The role is based at our Tarago Cheese factory in Neerim South in beautiful Gippsland, where we make our award winning Shadows of Blue Cheese, as well as a soon to be released white mould and washed rind cheese. As our on site Operations Manager, you will oversee all aspects of cheese maturation and cellar care, packaging and logistics. Reporting to the Directors, this is a hands-on leadership role where you will work closely with the Production Manager, lead a team of 5 members, develop and implement operations strategies, drive new projects, and ensure operational efficiency.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
Production Planning - Work with the Production Manager to plan cheese making and cellar care to meet sales forecasts.
Cheese Care - Manage the maturation and cellar care of all cheeses, optimising staff levels to meet production needs.
Process Improvement - Train staff in cellar care and maturation techniques. Revise, update and follow production and maturation recipes using internal software systems.
Product Fulfillment - Work with customer fulfilment team to mantain consistent supply to customers with cheese that is mature, meets all quality expectations and is delivered on time.
New Product Development - Work with the Production Manager to develop new styles, sizes and flavours of cheese.
Team Management - Supervise operations staff, ensure compliance with OHS and food safety regulations and work with the HR Manager to employ new members and improve staff performance.
Compliance & Reporting – Maintain detailed records of operational activities and assist QA team with maintaining quality standards and conducting internal and external audits.
Purchasing & Stock Control – Manage inventory and stock control including ordering and review of ingredients and packaging.
About You
You are a proactive and solutions-driven leader with:
Extensive experience in specialty cheese and food manufacturing environment.
Excellent understanding of cheese making prinicples and maturation techniques.
Attention to detail and methodical approach to operations and logistics.
A hands-on approach with high energy, initiative, and problem-solving ability.
Excellent communication, planning, and organisational skills.
A track record of success in inventrory control and supplier management.
Why Join Us?
Be part of a successful and growing Australian brand.
Work in a collaborative and supportive team that values innovation.
Enjoy career growth opportunities and professional development.
Lead exciting projects that make a real impact on production efficiency.
If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, apply now! Send your resume and a cover letter to hr@moondarracheese.com.au, outlining how your experience and skills align with this role.
