Site Technical Manager

Zest; Colne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food manufacturing company in Colne is seeking an experienced Site Technical Manager. This critical leadership role focuses on ensuring top-tier food safety and compliance while developing the technical team and implementing strategic improvements. Candidates should have a strong background in food manufacturing along with relevant qualifications, such as HACCP and a degree in Food Science. This position offers significant influence within an esteemed organization.

Qualifications

• Strong background in food manufacturing.
• Proven track record in a senior technical or quality management role.
• Level 4 HACCP and Lead Auditor qualification.
• Experience managing customer technical relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead all site technical operations and ensure food safety.
• Develop and implement technical strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Manage and develop the technical team.
• Provide presence during audits and inspections.

Skills

Leadership

Quality management

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Degree in Food Science or related discipline

Tools

SAP

MES

Job description

An opportunity for an experienced Site Technical Manager to lead the technical function within a well‑established food manufacturing business.

This is a key leadership position with responsibility for ensuring the highest standards of food safety, quality, legality, and compliance, while driving continuous improvement across the site. You’ll also play a visible role in audits, customer relationships, and deliver initiatives that support business growth and integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all site technical operations, ensuring robust systems for quality, food safety, legality, and brand integrity.
• Develop and implement a clear technical strategy and improvement roadmap aligned with business objectives.
• Champion a positive food safety and quality culture across all departments.
• Manage, coach, and develop the technical team, embedding strong leadership, succession planning, and performance management.
• Provide senior technical presence during audits, customer visits, and inspections.
• Collaborate with wider business functions to share best practice and deliver strategic projects.
• Lead investigations, non‑conformance management, and CAPA implementation to maintain continuous improvement.
• Support environmental, sustainability, and health and safety initiatives as part of the senior leadership team.

About You

You're an experienced technical leader with a strong background in food manufacturing and the credibility to influence at senior level. You combine strategic vision with practical leadership and a drive to raise standards and develop people.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Degree (or equivalent) in Food Science or a related discipline.
• Proven track record in a senior technical or quality management role within food manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of UK retailer Codes of Practice.
• Level 4 HACCP and Lead Auditor qualification.
• Experience of managing customer technical relationships.
• Demonstrated success in leading and developing high‑performing teams.
• Knowledge of BRCGS, IFS, and other third‑party audit standards.
• Experience with technical systems such as SAP or MES.
• Strong communication, influencing, and problem‑solving skills.

Why Apply?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a respected food business in a role with genuine influence and visibility. The successful candidate will shape technical strategy, build capability within the team, and play a key part in maintaining the highest standards of food safety, quality, and compliance.