Runner - Meals

Role overview

This position sits within the Meals production team and is focused on keeping the line supplied with the materials it needs so production can continue without interruption. The Runner supports a dedicated line that typically produces around 20,000 meals in a shift, and after each production run they help the team through the line changeover process. The role is highly physical and involves frequent manual movement of materials from Kanban to the workstations.

In addition to keeping materials flowing, the role may involve changing films and labels when the team leader is not available. There may also be occasions where support on the production line itself is required.

Working hours

The shift pattern for this role is Sunday to Thursday, 22:00 to 06:00.

Pay and benefits

Hourly pay is £14.78, plus bonus and benefits.

Key duties

• Keep the production line supplied with the right materials to prevent any stoppages.
• Support changeovers so the line can return to production as quickly as possible.
• Follow all issued work instructions and operating procedures.
• Operate the depositor as required.
• Step in to change films and labels when the team leader is unavailable.
• Assist on the production line whenever this is needed.
• Work safely at all times, follow safe systems of work, and support risk assessments when required.
• Report accidents, hazards, and any dangerous situations to the line manager promptly.
• Raise any concerns about product or packaging quality so issues can be addressed early.
• Help ensure products are completed right first time.
• Maintain high hygiene standards, follow personal hygiene rules, and keep the work area clean and tidy.
• Carry out effective clean-downs during product changes to avoid cross-contamination.
• Move materials efficiently from Kanban to the workstations using frequent manual handling.

Requirements

• Previous experience working to defined standards and KPIs.
• Good literacy and numeracy skills, including English and Maths.
• Background in a production environment.
• Ability to complete Level 2 Food Safety training and achieve a pass result.
• Food safety experience or a Level 2 Food Safety certificate is desirable.
• A practical, hands-on approach and willingness to learn new tasks.
• Good teamworking skills and a willingness to help colleagues.
• Motivation to help the department achieve its targets.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.

Company overview

apetito UK is a family-owned business and a major food supplier to health and social care settings across the UK. Its meals are created by dieticians and chefs, then frozen to protect quality and nutrition. The wider group also includes Wiltshire Farm Foods, a large ready-meal business serving customers nationwide.

Additional information

This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route because it does not meet the minimum requirements set out in UK immigration rules.

The employer is an accredited Living Wage employer, supports ethical and sustainable sourcing, and is working toward Net Zero by 2040. The business also promotes inclusion and aims to provide a workplace where people from different backgrounds can thrive and reach their full potential.

Benefits

• Competitive pay, aligned with Living Wage accreditation.
• 25 days of holiday each year, plus bank holidays.
• Option to buy up to 5 extra days of leave annually.
• Discretionary annual bonus.
• Employer pension contributions matched up to 4%.
• Life assurance cover of at least 1x annual salary.
• Subsidised canteen.
• Free parking.
• Free turkey or a Christmas voucher.
• Access to the apetito perks scheme, including salary sacrifice options and retail discounts.