Production Supervisor

About Abbott

Abbott is a global leader in healthcare dedicated to improving quality of life across all age groups. Our extensive portfolio includes innovations in diagnostics, medical devices, nutrition, and branded generics. With over 114,000 employees worldwide, Abbott provides healthcare solutions to people in more than 160 countries.

Abbott has been present in Ireland since 1946, operating across ten locations with approximately 6,000 staff. Facilities are spread throughout Dublin, Donegal, Clonmel, Cootehill, Galway, Kilkenny, Longford, and Sligo.

At the Kilkenny site, Abbott Diabetes Care manufactures advanced products for managing diabetes, including FreeStyle blood glucose test strips and sensors. Key brands include FreeStyle Precision, FreeStyle Lite, and FreeStyle Libre.

Main Role Purpose

The Production Supervisor is responsible for achieving production goals and schedules in their designated process area. This involves leading continuous improvement efforts using lean methodologies and overseeing shift performance in terms of safety, quality, timely delivery, and cost efficiency. The role includes direct line management of operators and technicians.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain close interaction with production teams through a hands-on management style, encouraging problem-solving participation.
• Build a motivated, effective work team with high morale and performance levels.
• Foster a respectful workplace by actively listening, basing decisions on facts, controlling personal reactions, and addressing inappropriate conduct.
• Support team members' growth via performance management, coaching, and clear communication.
• Monitor production schedules to identify and resolve issues promptly.
• Ensure product quality standards are met by enforcing standard work procedures, providing operational and inspection training, and utilizing relevant tools and data.
• Deliver training aimed at enhancing standard work practices, workplace organization (including 5S), and housekeeping; lead change initiatives proactively.
• Encourage a culture of continuous improvement by challenging existing processes and implementing effective solutions.
• Guide production staff in adhering to company policies and practices.
• Maintain accurate time records and production data.
• Identify process-related challenges and assist the team in implementing corrective measures to improve overall performance.
• Engage regularly with production personnel regarding team performance, strategic goals, policy updates, safety, and quality matters.
• Coordinate with other Process Area Leads and relevant stakeholders on equipment issues, safety protocols, scheduling, company policies, and performance improvement programs.
• Recruit and retain a diverse and skilled workforce while providing ongoing performance feedback; uphold a safe and professional environment.
• Promote and embed a quality-focused culture within the process area.
• Comply with all company policies, procedures, and tasks; maintain positive communication and collaboration with employees at all levels, customers, contractors, and vendors.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum of a Level 7 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
• At least three years of experience in team development.
• Prior experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Excellent multitasking capabilities.
• Strong communication skills.

Employee Benefits at Abbott Kilkenny

• Health insurance coverage for employees and their families.
• Company pension scheme.
• Life insurance benefits.
• Short and long-term disability protection.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Carers leave provision.
• Support for education through assistance programs.

Additional Information

Abbott is committed to equal opportunity employment and values diversity. The role is based onsite at Kilkenny, Ireland.