Head of Technical

Macphie Limited; Glenbervie; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Join Macphie's Leadership Team as the Head of Technical, where you will lead quality assurance and compliance functions in a dynamic food manufacturing environment. You will inspire teams, manage budgets, and ensure adherence to industry standards, making a significant impact on the company’s reputation and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership in Quality Assurance in food manufacturing.
• At least 10 years’ experience managing similar functions.
• HACCP & Hygiene certification (desirable).

Responsibilities

• Lead technical, food safety, and compliance functions.
• Manage departmental budgets and ensure quality standards.
• Oversee food safety systems and lead audits.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Planning

Technical competence

Education

BSc or MSc in Food Science/Technology

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Head of Technical

Join our Leadership Team at Macphie

Let us introduce ourselves - Macphie, an internationally acclaimed family ingredient manufacturer, proudly situated in the picturesque and tranquil landscapes of Glenbervie in Aberdeenshire, with sites in Glasgow and the Midlands. Our expertise spans sauces, bakery creations, and ice cream toppings, including plant-based and gluten-free options. We are trusted partners to leading food brands, dedicated to transforming ideas into delectable solutions.

About the role

We are seeking a strategic Head of Technical to lead our technical, food safety, and compliance functions. This key leadership role ensures our operations meet standards such as BRCGS, B-CORP, SEDEX, and customer requirements.

You will lead and inspire the Quality and Technical teams across production sites, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, and contribute to projects like Capital Investments. The role also includes managing departmental budgets and maintaining the integrity of our quality, legality, and food safety standards organization-wide.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic & Operational Leadership
   • Provide strategic direction on technical, food safety, and legal compliance.
   • Promote a quality and food safety culture based on a "right first time" approach.
   • Manage budgets and resources to support business goals.
   • Develop and mentor the Quality and Technical teams.
   • Drive innovation and continuous improvement with KPIs and monitoring.
   • Support cross-functional improvement projects.
2. Compliance & Quality Assurance
   • Maintain and improve systems aligned with standards such as BRCGS, B-CORP, SEDEX, and customer-specific requirements.
   • Oversee food safety systems (HACCP, TACCP, VACCP).
   • Lead customer audits, regulatory inspections, and supply chain schemes.
   • Manage non-conformances, complaints, and root cause analyses.
   • Ensure traceability and mass balance through ERP systems.
3. Quality Control & Product Integrity
   • Oversee quality control of raw materials, packaging, and finished products.
   • Collaborate to reduce non-conforming stock and improve compliance.
   • Procure technical equipment and manage document control.
4. People & Team Management
   • Oversee testing, calibration, and standardisation processes.
   • Lead recruitment, training, and performance management.
   • Plan resources and tasks effectively.
   • Conduct team briefings and training to motivate staff.
5. Reporting & Communication
   • Report on KPIs, compliance, and improvements.
   • Represent Quality in meetings and reviews.
   • Handle customer product complaints and escalations.
   • Communicate key issues proactively across the business.
6. Business Support & Development
   • Approve critical documentation.
   • Respond to technical queries and support audits.
   • Identify system and equipment improvements.
   • Promote Macphie’s technical expertise and reputation.
7. Risk & Crisis Management
   • Lead in crisis scenarios like product recalls.
   • Maintain business continuity, health & safety, and data protection compliance.
8. Qualifications & Experience
   • BSc or MSc in Food Science/Technology or related field, or equivalent experience.
   • Proven leadership in Quality Assurance in food manufacturing.
   • At least 10 years’ experience managing similar functions.
   • HACCP & Hygiene certification (desirable).
   • Lead Auditor qualification.
   • Experience managing people, processes, and technology.
9. Skills & Competencies
   • Strong leadership and management skills.
   • Excellent planning and organizational abilities.
   • High technical competence in food safety systems.
   • Effective communication and influencing skills.
   • Problem-solving and analytical skills.
   • Collaborative and commercially aware mindset.
   • Proficient IT and ERP skills.
10. Knowledge
    • Understanding of quality improvement and KPIs.
    • Knowledge of microbiology and thermal processing (desirable).
    • Familiarity with food industry standards like BRCGS.
    • Understanding of Chain of Custody.

The role requires a full driver’s license and the ability to travel, including overnight stays.

At Macphie, we foster a supportive, innovative, and high-performing environment. Join us as Head of Technical to shape our standards and reputation, making a real impact. If you are a strategic leader passionate about quality and continuous improvement, we want to hear from you. Apply now with your CV and cover letter.