Technical Manager

Gregory Walker Associates; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food manufacturing firm in Maidstone is seeking an experienced Technical Manager to oversee technical strategy and quality assurance. This role involves managing relationships with a major UK retailer, ensuring high standards of food safety and compliance. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in food quality and technical leadership. This position offers an opportunity to drive continuous improvement in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in technical management within food manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of HACCP, QMS, and food safety standards.
• Excellent communication skills for retailer relationship management.

Responsibilities

• Act as the main technical contact for a major retailer.
• Lead the technical and QA functions at the site.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and GMP standards.

Skills

Food safety compliance

Technical leadership

Quality assurance

Job description

Overview

Our client is a highly respected, fast-growing food manufacturing business based in Kent, supplying a major UK retailer with premium, short‑shelf‑life products. Known for quality, innovation, and strong customer relationships, they are now seeking an experienced Technical Manager to lead the technical agenda on‑site.

This is a key role within the senior team, responsible for shaping technical strategy, driving continuous improvement in food safety and quality, and acting as the primary interface with a high‑profile retail customer.

Key Responsibilities

Retailer Relationship Management – Act as the main technical contact for one of the UK’s major retailers, ensuring excellent communication, smooth audit performance, and ongoing confidence in product integrity.

Technical & Quality Leadership – Lead the site’s technical, QA and compliance functions, ensuring robust systems across HACCP, QMS, raw materials, allergen management, traceability and specifications.

Food Safety Governance – Maintain the highest standards of food safety and GMP; ensure BRC / retailer COP compliance and readiness at all times.

Business Strategy Contribution – Work with the SLT to create and deliver the technical roadmap, including long‑term quality strategy, risk mitigation, NPD support and customer growth plans.

Continuous Improvement – Identify and implement improvemen...