We are excited to recruit a Lead Operative to join our busy Production Team in a busy hands-on role.
This position offers a fantastic opportunity to advance your career in the food sector by leading a team of operatives within a dynamic department. If you’re passionate about quality, safety, and customer service, this could be the perfect step for you.
Summary
Days worked: Monday - Saturday
Hours: Minimum of 37.5 hours, five shifts per week
Start Times: 0515, 1330, with finish times based on production demands
Key Responsibilities
- Become an expert on each line under your supervision in order to support, lead, and motivate your collegues
- Work as part of a supervisory team to uphold and exceed internal and external quality standards.
- Ensure all production records are completed accurately and efficiently.
- Report any maintenance, quality, or production issues promptly and accurately.
- Maintain high hygiene and housekeeping standards across all operations.
Important Note: This is a physically active hands-on role and requires manual handling.
Skills and Experience
Essential:
- Proven experience as a line leader in a busy production environment.
- Knowledge of Health and Safety standards and safe working practices.
- Excellent communication skills to foster positive working relationships.
Desirable:
- Familiarity with food production and HACCP.
- Experience in the dairy or food production industry.
Training and Development
Cotteswold Dairy offers clear progression pathways and development opportunities within the role. You’ll have the chance to broaden your skill set, gain recognized qualifications, and advance within the business.
If you are a strong communicator with high levels of commitment and a desire to lead and inspire others, we would love to hear from you.
Apply Today to join Cotteswold Dairy and take the next step in your career.
About Cotteswold Dairy
Since 1938, Cotteswold Dairy has flourished from a modest milk round—delivering just 30 gallons a day using a bucket and ladle—into one of the UK’s most respected independent, family-run dairies, rooted in Tewkesbury. Built on the founding values of quality, service, and cleanliness, the business has remained committed to those principles spanning three generations, now under the leadership of Managing Director George Workman.
Today, we process, pack, and deliver over 100 million litres of milk and dairy products each year to doorstep customers and businesses across England and Wales, operating from multiple depots and a modern production site in Tewkesbury.
At our heart lies a strong ethical and environmental commitment. We partner with local farms within a 60-mile radius—many Red Tractor-certified—promoting sustainable farming practices, animal welfare, and minimal environmental impact. We’ve championed eco-friendly initiatives for decades, including returnable glass bottles, electric milk floats, telematics for efficient logistics, and zero waste-to-landfill operations.
More than a business, Cotteswold Dairy is a values-driven community dedicated to delivering wholesome, high-quality dairy products while nurturing people, our communities, and our planet—making us a compelling and meaningful place to build your career.
