Technical Manager

D R Newitt & Associates; Slough; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing food manufacturer near Slough is seeking a Technical Manager to oversee all technical, quality, and food safety functions within the manufacturing site. The role demands strong leadership, compliance management, and direct involvement with regulatory bodies and auditors. Candidates should possess a relevant degree and proven experience in a technical or quality management role within food manufacturing. The position offers a chance to actively contribute to the company's growth and success.

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of food safety, legislation, and quality systems.
• Proven experience in a technical or quality management role within food manufacturing.
• HACCP Level 4 and Food Safety Management qualification desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the technical and quality assurance teams.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, and legal standards.
• Develop and maintain food safety and quality management systems.
• Manage internal and external audits.
• Oversee document control and quality records.

Skills

Knowledge of food safety and quality systems

Leadership and team management

Excellent communication skills

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Education

Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology

Job description

Overview

Fast Growing Food Manufacturer now looking to recruit. Based near Slough, near Heathrow Airport.

Role: The Technical Manager is responsible for overseeing all technical, quality and food safety functions within the manufacturing site. This role ensures that all products are manufactured to the highest quality and safety standards, in compliance with customer specifications, legal requirements, and industry standards. The Technical Manager leads the technical and quality assurance teams and acts as the primary point of contact for regulatory bodies, customers and auditors.

Office hours: Monday – Friday with flexibility.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the site's technical, quality assurance and hygiene teams.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, quality and legal standards.
• Develop, implement and maintain food safety management systems and quality management systems.
• Manage internal and external audits, including preparation, facilitation, corrective actions and reporting.
• Ensure all products meet customer/client specifications and manage customer complaints and investigations.
• Maintain and oversee HACCP plans, allergen controls, traceability, and product testing schedules.
• Manage the technical relationship with customers, clients, suppliers and external regulatory bodies.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives in quality and food safety processes.
• Provide technical support to production and new product development (NPD) teams.
• Ensure raw material and finished product specifications are up to date and accurately maintained.
• Oversee document control, quality records and technical supporting.
• Manage the technical budget, resource planning and training and development for technical staff.
• Review, update and maintain all customer specification databases.
• Actively promote Good Manufacturing Practice in order to achieve right first-time culture.
• Approval of new and existing suppliers based on supply chain risk assessment.
• Provide technical and legal advice on export labelling and logistical requirements.
• Be the company technical representative on any group or external working groups as requested.
• Record production and test data for batches of food and share information with team members.
• Undertake other duties within the team and the wider business as deemed reasonable.
• Maintain a flexible approach working to meet team-based work requirements.

Candidates

Key Skills and Competencies:

• In-depth knowledge of food safety, food legislation, and quality systems.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage audits and external inspections confidently.
• High attention to detail and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in a technical or quality management role within a food manufacturing environment.
• HACCP Level 4 and Food Safety Management qualification (desirable).
• Experience with BRCGS certification and major retailer audit standards.
• Strong understanding of allergen management, traceability, and legislative compliance.

*This is an excellent opportunity to take ownership over Technical and be part of a Company's growth plan as the team looks set to enjoy continued success!