Raw Materials Manager

About Lactalis

Lactalis New Zealand, formerly Fonterra Brands NZ, is part of the global Lactalis Group, a French family-owned enterprise recognized as the largest dairy company worldwide. Operating in 50 countries with around 90,000 employees, Lactalis produces 2,000 dairy products and is dedicated to advancing consumer health and nutrition. In New Zealand, Lactalis employs over 1,000 individuals across three manufacturing plants, two distribution centers, and a corporate office, producing beloved dairy brands such as Anchor, Fresh ‘n’ Fruity, and Mainland.

Position Overview

This newly established role offers a hands-on, highly visible opportunity to enhance the entire milk processing pipeline. Collaborating closely with plant teams, engineers, automation experts, and contractors, you will identify sources of raw material loss, measure their impact, and drive actionable improvements to minimize waste and boost site performance. Reporting to the Site and Beverage Operations Manager, the role involves mapping milk and component flows, applying raw material management methodologies to improve yield, standardization, waste reduction, and process efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Map and analyse the complete flow of milk and its components through unloading, transfer, and manufacturing stages to identify areas of loss and potential improvements.
• Utilize raw material management techniques to develop, track, and promote continuous improvement initiatives focused on yield, standardization, giveaway, waste, and process metrics.
• Examine operational data, investigate anomalies, and provide transparent insights to support informed decision-making and prioritize root cause resolutions.
• Collaborate effectively with production, engineering, automation, and contractor teams to implement solutions that add value and enhance manufacturing performance.
• Support the development of site savings plans, raw material reporting, budget preparation, and improvement projects delivering tangible commercial benefits.

Candidate Profile

• Technically curious and process-oriented individual who excels at detailed problem-solving and uncovering unseen opportunities.
• Experienced in dairy, food manufacturing, chemical engineering, food technology, or related fields, supported by appropriate qualifications or equivalent practical experience.
• Demonstrates a keen investigative mindset with proven troubleshooting skills handling complex or ambiguous technical problems.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities, capable of influencing outcomes independently within a collaborative environment.
• Detail-focused with practical, value-based approaches and the flexibility to engage directly with plant operations to understand processes and identify loss points.

What We Provide

• Competitive remuneration and benefits package.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a global organization.
• A supportive and collaborative workplace culture where your contributions matter.
• A commitment to safety, quality, innovation, and sustainability.
• Flexible working arrangements when feasible.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Lactalis New Zealand proudly promotes equal opportunity employment, welcoming candidates from diverse backgrounds. We strive to cultivate an inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to flourish.