Chris Mabhara

Senior Hygiene & Operations Manager with 20+ years' experience across the food manufacturing and FMCG sectors, including leadership roles in multi-site operations. Proven track record of delivering audit-ready environments, improving hygiene standards, and driving cost efficiencies through strategic planning and team leadership. Experienced in managing large, diverse teams and leading cross-functional collaboration across Health & Safety, HR, Technical, and Engineering functions.

Recognised for strong problem-solving ability, high standards, and delivering results in high-pressure environments.

Site Hygiene Manager - 2 Sisters food Group

(2023-01)

• Lead a team of 25+ hygiene operatives, supervisors, and Night Hygiene Manager
• Implemented a structured hygiene strategy to improve audit readiness and compliance
• Regained control of an unmanaged hygiene budget, improving cost visibility and efficiency
• Key member of Senior Management Team, contributing to site-wide decision-making
• Supported HR with disciplinary procedures and workforce management
• Delivered monthly performance reports and strategic updates to leadership
• Controlled budgets covering labour, chemicals, PPE and laundry

Senior Hygiene Manager - Geary's Bakeries

(2019-03 - 2022-12)

• Managed hygiene operations across 2 sites with 60+ staff
• Developed and executed hygiene strategy aligned with KPIs and audit standards
• Full ownership of hygiene budgets across both sites
• Led internal audits and external audit preparation, ensuring compliance with BRC standards
• Strengthened cross-functional collaboration with H&S, Technical, and Operations

Interim Hygiene Manager - Palethorpe's Bakery - Market Drayton

(2018-09 - 2018-11)

• Redesigned site hygiene structure, introducing new shift patterns and leadership roles
• Implemented improved cleaning procedures and compliance systems
• Led audit preparation and introduced weekly Preaudit's
• Enhanced allergen control, pest management, and chemical handling processes

Interim Hygiene Manager - Utopia - Corby

(2017-10 - 2018-08)

• Managed 40+ hygiene staff and multiple team leaders
• Controlled budgets covering labour, chemicals, and laundry
• Led hygiene strategy aligned with BRC standards
• Acted as Listeria Champion and led microbiological control processes
• Investigated out-of-spec results and customer complaints

Hygiene Manager - Samworth Brothers (Bradgate Bakery) - Leicester

(2013-07 - 2017-09)

• Managed large multidisciplinary team including engineers and technicians
• Collaborated closely with Engineering on plant upgrades and maintenance
• Oversaw contractor management and permit systems
• Played key role in modernisation and operational efficiency improvements

Chief Police Superintendent - Zimbabwe Republic Police - Zimbabwe

(1987 - 1998)

Developed strong leadership, discipline, and operational management foundations.

BA (Hons) - Business Studies - University of Zimbabwe