Level 6 Manufacturing Manager

Introduction to the Apprenticeship

A Manufacturing Manager in the food and drink industry, as defined within the scope of a degree apprenticeship, is a critical role responsible for steering the food production process towards achieving the strategic aims and objectives of their organisation. This individual plays a key role in ensuring that food and drink operations are conducted efficiently, safely, and in compliance with quality standards, all while aligning with the organisation's broader strategic goals. In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with manufacturing personnel and managers from other departments, for example, commercial, marketing, research and design, technical, quality, human resources, and engineering. They may also interact with customers. Reporting to senior management or the business owner, the Manufacturing Manager holds accountability for the performance and outcomes of their department or team.

Operating across various sectors within the food and drink industry, the specific job titles and responsibilities of a Food Manufacturing Manager can vary. This degree allows for specialism in manufacturing, supply chain, seafood processing, or agri-produce. However, the fundamental knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for success in this role are universally applicable. Core responsibilities encompass the formulation and execution of operational plans specific to food production, supply chain, project management, leadership and team management, implementing change, and managing finances and resources efficiently.

Key positions within the Food Manufacturing Manager degree apprenticeship framework may include titles such as Food Production Manager, Supply Chain Manager, and Site Manager. Each of these roles contributes to the seamless operation of food manufacturing processes, ensuring that products are produced efficiently, sustainably, and in line with consumer expectations and regulatory standards.

The first level of study can be taken as a Certificate of Higher Education alongside the level 4 process leader apprenticeship standard. This is intended to support learners who want to attempt study in higher education, but who do not want to commit initially to the full 4.5-year programme. They have the option to top up to the full BSc (Hons) programme if they are successful.

Apprenticeship Standard

For more information about the Level 6 manufacturing manager, please visit:

https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/manufacturing-manager-integrated-degree-v1-0

Degree Modules

The standard supports those who are working towards or are currently managing teams and/or projects, and achieving operational or departmental goals and objectives, as part of the delivery of an organisation's strategy. They may be accountable to a more senior manager or the business owner.

Modules include:

• Managing Self and Others in the Food and Drink Industry
• Food and Drink Governance, Legislation and Compliance
• Food and Drink Process Operations Management
• Food and Drink Business Management
• Project Management and Management of Change
• Principles of Food and Drink Supply Chain
• Principles of Food and Drink Manufacturing
• Option
• Applied Food and Drink Manufacturing Management
• Applied Food and Drink Supply Chain Management
• Applied Seafood Operations
• Applied Agri-Produce Operations
• Food and Drink Foundation Project
• Strategic Food and Drink Business Management
• Advanced Food and Drink Operations Management
• Undertaking Research: Current Issues
• Manufacturing Manager End Point Assessment

Apprenticeship End Point Assessment

Apprentices typically spend a 48 months on-programme (before the gateway) working towards the occupational standard and should meet the off the job requirements for an apprenticeship.

The EPA period should only start once the employer is satisfied that the apprentice is deemed to be consistently working at or above the level set out in the occupational standard. Apprentices without English and mathematics at level 2 must achieve level 2 prior to taking their EPA. The EPA must be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 8 months, the EPA consists of 2 discrete assessment methods:

• Professional discussion underpinned by portfolio of evidence
• Project report, presentation and questioning

For more information about the End Point Assessment Process, please visit:

https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/media/2691/manufacturing-manager-epa_for-publication_11feb19.pdf

Contact us for more information about how to apply: ncfm@lincoln.ac.uk or 01406 493000