Technical Manager

Reports to: Technical & Development Director

We are looking for an experienced Technical Manager to lead all aspects of technical compliance, quality systems and customer technical engagement for a UK business.

This is a highly visible role where you will work closely with their supply base and key retail customers, ensuring technical integrity across the supply chain while supporting the continued growth of the business.

You will collaborate closely with their key manufacturing partner, alongside third-party suppliers and internal teams, to deliver outstanding quality, compliance and customer service.

The Role

Customer & Supplier Management

• Manage all UK customer technical requirements, including retailer Codes of Practice and agricultural standards
• Act as the key technical contact for all matters relating to third-party supplied materials
• Work collaboratively with suppliers and customers to develop quality and technical innovation plans
• Maintain strong working relationships with supply partners and internal teams
• Manage supplier approval processes and supplier risk assessments including TACCP and VACCP
• Maintain the approved supplier database and farm assurance accreditation matrix (e.g. Red Tractor, GlobalG.A.P, Vegaplan)

Quality Systems & Compliance

• Maintain and continuously improve the company Quality Management System
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, retailer requirements and accreditation standards
• Create and maintain product specifications and supplier approval documentation
• Investigate supplier non-conformances and complaints, ensuring corrective actions are implemented effectively
• Lead the HACCP team and maintain the HACCP plan, training and documentation
• Conduct traceability reviews using SAP and ensure full supply chain visibility

Auditing

• Lead the internal audit programme and ensure corrective actions are completed
• Prepare for and lead external audits including BRC Agents & Brokers accreditation
• Manage the accreditation audit and visit schedule
• Support customer traceability exercises and supply chain transparency
• Work closely with commercial teams during tender periods to ensure technical integrity

Leadership & Development

• Provide mentorship and support to the Technical Assistant
• Deliver strong leadership across the technical function
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency through systems, automation and improved processes
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration across the business

Industry Insight

• Monitor emerging risks, legislation and industry developments through horizon scanning
• Assess potential impacts on the business and supply chain
• Engage with relevant industry bodies and communicate updates internally and to customers when required

About You

You will be a confident and commercially aware technical professional with experience working within food manufacturing, distribution or FMCG environments.

Experience & Qualifications

• Experience in food technical, quality or compliance roles
• Strong customer-facing technical experience
• Experience working with supplier approval and risk management processes
• HACCP Level 3 minimum (Level 4 desirable)
• Lead Auditor qualification desirable
• ERP system experience (SAP desirable)

Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays, and maybe an option for 1 day per week remote working

For further information please contact Luan Harrison at MorePeople on 01780480530 or press apply now.