UK Fresh Produce Technical & Quality Lead

D R Newitt & Associates; Chatteris; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

D R Newitt & Associates seeks an experienced UK Technical & Quality Manager to lead technical, food safety, quality and compliance for imported fresh produce destined for major UK retailers.

The role covers international supplier oversight, third-party packhouses, and ensuring products meet UK legislation and retailer standards while maintaining traceability and supplier collaboration across the supply chain.

Qualifications

• Experience in a Technical or Quality role within fresh produce or food supply.
• Knowledge of UK retailer technical standards.
• Experience with imported produce and international supply chains.
• Experience with supplier approvals, audits and due diligence.
• Familiarity with Sedex or similar ethical audit platforms.
• Understanding of UK food safety legislation and traceability.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Hands-on, practical problem-solving approach.
• Willingness to travel to supplier and packhouse sites.

Responsibilities

• Oversee food safety, quality and regulatory compliance for imported fresh produce.
• Manage supplier approval, due diligence, audits and corrective actions.
• Maintain traceability and technical compliance across the supply chain.
• Manage Sedex, PPPL documentation and other customer/certification requirements.
• Provide technical and quality support to third-party packhouses.
• Conduct site visits and quality inspections where required.
• Investigate complaints, rejections and non-conformances, including root cause analysis.
• Produce quality reports and monitor product and stock quality.
• Keep suppliers, retailers and internal stakeholders informed of relevant technical and legislative changes.

Job description

D R Newitt & Associates seeks an experienced UK Technical & Quality Manager to lead technical, food safety, quality and compliance for imported fresh produce destined for major UK retailers.

The role covers international supplier oversight, third-party packhouses, and ensuring products meet UK legislation and retailer standards while maintaining traceability and supplier collaboration across the supply chain.