Group Quality Systems & Hygiene Manager - Fixed Term Contract

Zest Recruitment; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading FMCG company in the UK is seeking an experienced Group Quality Systems & Hygiene Manager to enhance hygiene and quality standards across its manufacturing sites. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food safety and quality systems, with proven skills in coaching and cross-functional collaboration. This fixed-term role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact and shape food safety practices. Applicants with a degree in a relevant field and knowledge of GFSI standards will be preferred.

Qualifications

• Strong track record in food safety, hygiene, and quality systems.
• In-depth knowledge of GFSI standards and microbiology.
• Collaborative approach to influencing change.

Responsibilities

• Develop hygiene and GMP standards across group sites.
• Lead hygiene audits and microbiological investigations.
• Coach teams to embed hygiene and food safety culture.

Skills

Food safety

Hygiene management

Quality systems

Communication

Coaching

Education

Relevant degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Digital platforms

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and proactive Group Quality Systems & Hygiene Manager to join a leading FMCG business. In this key role, you'll partner with site leadership teams to drive improvements in hygiene, food safety, and quality systems across group manufacturing sites.

You will work closely with site Quality Managers to ensure high standards are maintained, audited, and improved in line with industry best practices.

This role is hands-on, strategic, and influential, offering the chance to make a tangible impact across the business.

Key Responsibilities:
Develop and implement group-wide hygiene and GMP standards in collaboration with senior stakeholders.

Lead site hygiene audits and microbiological investigations, working cross-functionally with site teams, contractors, and R&D.

Coach, train, and support operational teams to embed robust hygiene and food safety culture across all sites.

Identify and drive improvements in quality systems and hygiene practices, ensuring they are future-fit and compliant.

Support internal and external audits and help sites maintain readiness for third-party inspections and certifications.

Contribute to the design and implementation of new equipment and processes with a hygiene-first approach.

Provide guidance during complaint investigations and act as delegate for the Head of Quality when required.

We're looking for someone with:
A relevant degree (or equivalent experience) and a strong track record in food safety, hygiene, and quality systems within FMCG, ideally food or drink manufacturing.
In-depth knowledge of GFSI standards, hygiene and cleaning processes (CIP/COP), microbiology, and relevant legislation.
A collaborative, people-focused approach to influencing change through coaching and training.
Strong communication skills and experience working across multiple sites or functions.
Experience with microbiological standards and testing methods is desirable.
Proficiency with digital platforms

This is a Fixed Term Contract role.
This role offers the chance to shape and elevate hygiene and quality standards across a complex manufacturing group. If you're passionate about driving excellence and making a real impact, we'd love to hear from you.

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