Technical Manager

Puratos; Sittingbourne; On-site; GBP 58,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in food ingredients near Sittingbourne is seeking a Technical Manager to oversee Technical and Hygiene teams. You will ensure product standards for safety and quality are met, lead audits, manage complaints, and collaborate across departments. The ideal candidate will possess strong knowledge of food legislation and excellent leadership skills, with a degree in a related field preferred. The role offers a salary of £58,000 per annum with comprehensive benefits including training and development opportunities.

Benefits

25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays

Career growth opportunities

Cycle to work scheme

Comprehensive training

Positive and inclusive work environment

Responsibilities

• Lead HACCP & TACCP teams and internal audits.
• Manage customer complaints and drive reduction strategies.
• Oversee supplier auditing and raw material quality.
• Support R&D for new product development and quality enhancement.
• Ensure compliance with Organic, RSPO, and other standards.
• Provide training on HACCP, legislation, and food safety.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Report KPIs and technical updates to leadership.

Skills

Knowledge of BRC standards

Excellent communication skills

Proven leadership abilities

Experience in food manufacturing

Proficient in root cause analysis

Education

Degree in Food Science/Technology

Job description

Overview

At Puratos, we create innovative food solutions for the health and well-being of people everywhere. As the global leader in bakery, patisserie and chocolate ingredients, we help our customers to be successful with their business, by turning technologies and experiences from food cultures around the world into new opportunities. We are more than 10,000 employees in over 85 countries with a consolidated turnover of 3.1 billion euros (in 2023). Our passion for innovation, a pioneering spirit and the unique Puratos culture drive our solid growth and vision for the future.

To strengthen our team in Puratos Fourayes, near Sittingbourne, Kent, we are looking for a:

Role

Technical Manager

Your Mission

Reporting to the Head of Operations, the successful candidate will be responsible for managing and developing our Technical and Hygiene teams, ensuring our products meet the highest standards of food safety, quality, and compliance. This is a key leadership role, driving continuous improvement and innovation across our operations.

What you will do

• Lead HACCP & TACCP teams and internal audits (GMP, Hygiene, Systems)
• Manage customer complaints and drive reduction strategies
• Oversee supplier auditing and raw material quality
• Support R&D for new product development and quality enhancement
• Ensure compliance with Organic, RSPO, and other external standards
• Provide training on HACCP, legislation, and food safety
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Farm, Engineering, and Marketing
• Report KPIs and technical updates to the leadership team

What we expect from you

The ideal candidate would have:

• Strong knowledge of BRC standards and UK/EU food legislation
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage change
• Degree in Food Science/Technology or related discipline (preferred)
• Experience in food manufacturing and quality systems
• Proficient in root cause analysis and complaint investigation
• Comfortable working in a dynamic production environment

What you can expect from Puratos

• £58,000 per annum.
• Core hours will be 40 hours per week Monday – Friday 08:30 – 17:00.
• 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
• Opportunities for career growth and development.
• Comprehensive training and support, with 5 training days planned for every employee in 2026.
• Employee benefits platform.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• A positive and inclusive work environment.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We are a warm family company with a historical growth track record and a clear long-term vision for the future. We promote a caring, trustful and respectful work environment by putting people first. We cultivate an inclusive global workplace that fully embraces diversity and equal opportunities for all. We strive to reflect the richness of our customers, communities and society, accelerating our ability to innovate and deliver on our commitments.