Assistant General Manager (m/f/d)

We are the world market leader for reusable packaging containers (RPCs) for fresh food and are constantly optimizing our products.

We help make the food supply cycle for the population more sustainable. With our RPCs, safety for food transport is improved, there is less waste of food and at the same time the lifespan of the products increases. Through our products and the need for less packaging materials we reduce the carbon footprint.

„The future is circular“

Key responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership – Act as the trusted deputy to the General Manager, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality operations while maintaining business continuity and performance standards.
• Production & Process Excellence – Lead and coordinate production, maintenance, logistics, and support functions, driving operational excellence through continuous improvement, Lean methodologies, and optimisation initiatives.
• Performance Management – Monitor key operational indicators, analyse performance trends, identify root causes, and implement sustainable corrective actions to achieve quality, productivity, delivery, and customer service objectives.
• Safety, Quality & Compliance – Champion a strong culture of Health & Safety, Quality, Environmental, and regulatory compliance, ensuring risks are proactively managed and operations are halted when necessary to protect people and product integrity.
• Financial & Resource Management – Oversee operational budgets, control expenditure, optimise resource utilisation, and identify opportunities for cost efficiency while maintaining service excellence.
• People Leadership & Development – Inspire, coach, and develop leaders and teams, fostering accountability, collaboration, engagement, and continuous learning across the organisation.
• Workforce & Organisational Planning – Support talent development, succession planning, workforce optimisation, and organisational capability building to ensure long-term operational success.
• Stakeholder & Business Partnership – Build strong relationships with internal and external partners, contribute to strategic initiatives, and support capital investment and operational improvement projects that drive business growth.

We expect:

• Educational Background – Degree in Operations Management, Engineering, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and practical experience.
• Operational Leadership Experience – Proven leadership experience in high-volume manufacturing, production, logistics, or warehouse environments with responsibility for large, multidisciplinary teams and round-the-clock operations.
• Continuous Improvement Expertise – Solid understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and operational excellence methodologies, with a track record of driving efficiency, productivity, and process improvements.
• Health, Safety & Compliance Knowledge – Strong knowledge of health, safety, quality, and compliance standards, ideally supported by relevant safety management training or certifications.
• Business & Financial Acumen – Sound understanding of operational performance management, KPI analysis, budgeting, cost control, and resource planning within a fast-paced operational environment.
• Leadership & Stakeholder Management – Inspiring people leader with excellent coaching, communication, and stakeholder management skills, able to build strong relationships across all levels of the organisation.
• Problem Solving & Execution – Analytical and solution-oriented mindset with strong project management capabilities, a hands-on approach, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while delivering sustainable results.
• Language & Digital Skills – Proficient in standard business applications, including Microsoft Office, with strong German and English communication skills, both written and spoken.

We offer:

• Make a difference where it matters – Play a key role in a sustainable and future-proof industry.
• A culture of appreciation and respect – Join an international team where collaboration thrives.
• Flat hierarchies, fast decisions – Your ideas matter and drive real change. 
• Work your way – Enjoy flexible working hours and hybrid work.
• Unlimited learning opportunities – Access to unlimited LinkedIn Learning. 
• Support when you need it – Our Employee Support Program.
• Boost your energy – Free beverages to keep you going.

At IFCO, we believe that a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace makes us a more relevant, more competitive, and more resilient company. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and experiences. IFCO is an equal opportunity employer.