Technical Manager - Supplier

MorePeople; Epping Forest; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A trusted supplier of fresh produce in the UK is seeking a Technical Supplier Manager to oversee supplier quality and safety. You will drive compliance with industry standards and support continuous improvement efforts. The ideal candidate has strong technical knowledge, excellent communication skills, and experience in the fresh produce sector. This role offers an opportunity to influence key decisions in the supply chain.

Qualifications

• Proven technical experience within fresh produce (supplier and/or packhouse management).
• Strong knowledge of BRC standards, HACCP, food safety, and ethical compliance.
• Experience auditing against customer and 3rd party standards (e.g., BRC, GlobalGAP).
• Solid understanding of pesticide usage and testing requirements.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain all aspects of supplier due diligence, audits, and performance reviews.
• Provide technical advice to growers to meet legislation and customer standards.
• Oversee food safety compliance including pesticide screening.
• Act as a key point of contact for customers on technical matters.

Skills

Proven technical experience within fresh produce

Strong knowledge of BRC standards

Excellent communication skills

Leadership skills

Experience auditing against customer standards

Job description

We work closely with a trusted supplier of fresh produce, collaborating with growers and retailers to deliver products that meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainability. We are now looking for a Technical Supplier Manager to join their team, ensuring our supply base consistently delivers to customer expectations and supports the continued growth of our business.

Overview

As Technical Supplier Manager, you will take overall responsibility for the safety and quality of fresh produce. You'll manage supplier performance, drive technical improvements, and work closely with our growers, customers, and internal teams to maintain compliance with legislation and customer standards.

This is a pivotal role that requires strong technical knowledge, excellent communication skills, and the ability to influence at all levels of the supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain all aspects of supplier due diligence, audits, and performance reviews.
• Provide technical advice to growers, supporting them to meet UK/EU legislation and customer standards.
• Oversee food safety compliance including pesticide screening and micro analysis.
• Support site-based technical teams in maintaining and improving packhouse standards (BRC, HACCP, ethical compliance).
• Act as a key point of contact for customers on technical matters - including specifications, complaints, and product rejections.
• Lead and host customer and supplier visits
• Identify and drive technical projects and continuous improvement opportunities across the supply base.

About You

We're looking for a proactive, credible, and organised individual who can build strong relationships across growers, suppliers, and customers. You'll be confident in your technical expertise and able to influence effectively while maintaining high standards.

Essential skills and experience include:

• Proven technical experience within fresh produce (supplier and/or packhouse management).
• Strong knowledge of BRC standards, HACCP, food safety, and ethical compliance.
• Experience auditing against customer and 3rd party standards (e.g., BRC, GlobalGAP).
• Solid understanding of pesticide usage and testing requirements (BASIS qualification an advantage).
• Excellent communication, influencing, and leadership skills.

For further information, please contact Luan on 01780 480530 or email [e-mail]