Site Technical Manager

Zest; West Midlands; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable food manufacturer in the UK seeks a skilled Technical Manager to oversee the site's Technical, QA, and Hygiene functions. This pivotal role requires a hands-on leader with a degree in Food Science and a minimum of 5 years in food manufacturing. Responsibilities include ensuring product safety and compliance, managing external contracts, and developing the Technical and QA Team. The position offers autonomy and the chance to impact site performance profoundly.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in a food manufacturing environment.
• HACCP qualification and proven experience in food safety system development.
• Experience as a Systems Auditor.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, quality assurance, and hygiene standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee compliance with legislative, regulatory, and customer standards.
• Manage external contracts and liaise with external bodies.
• Support Operations to optimise site performance.
• Contribute to site strategic planning and new operation ramp-up.
• Lead Technical and QA training initiatives.

Skills

Hands-on leadership

Analytical skills

Strong people management

Problem-solving

Experience interfacing with regulatory bodies

Education

Degree in Food Science

Job description

Opportunity for a Technical Manager to lead and develop the site's Technical, QA, and Hygiene functions.

This is a pivotal role within a self-managed team, deputising for senior management when required.

The Role

As Technical Manager, you will ensure all products leaving the site are safe, compliant, and meet both regulatory and customer standards.

You will lead the Technical, QA and Hygiene Team, driving best practices in GMP, food safety, and quality assurance.

• Overseeing compliance with legislative, regulatory, and customer standards, including micro compliance.
• Managing external contracts with outsourced laboratories and liaising with external bodies such as EHOs, Trading Standards, and accrediting organisations.
• Supporting Operations to optimise site performance through predictive and continuous improvement approaches.
• Contributing to site strategic planning and new operation ramp-up, ensuring required approvals (e.g., BRC, Retailer COPs, EHO) are achieved.
• Leading Technical and QA training initiatives to develop team capability and maintain high standards.
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives to integrate quality systems into site operations effectively.

About You

We are looking for a technically competent, hands-on leader who combines excellent people management skills with strong analytical and influencing abilities. You will have:

• A degree in a Food Science discipline.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a food manufacturing environment.
• HACCP qualification and proven experience in food safety system development and implementation.
• Experience as a Systems Auditor.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, quality assurance, and hygiene standards.
• Ability to lead self-managed teams, delivering training, development, and performance improvements.
• Experience interfacing with regulatory bodies, customers, and auditors.
• Lean manufacturing awareness and a methodical, controlled approach to problem-solving.

Why Apply?

Reputable food manufacturer in a leadership capacity with real autonomy and influence over site performance. You will be the conscience of the site, ensuring consumer safety, product integrity, and operational excellence.