Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in United Kingdom

Job Title: Head of Technical – P&C (Private & Confidential)
Location: South West England
Industry: Food Manufacturing
Salary: Circa £100,000 + bonus + benefits
Contract: Full-time | Permanent

About the Role

On behalf of one of our valued clients — a respected and established name in UK food manufacturing — we are exclusively managing the search for a Head of Technical – P&C (Private & Confidential). This is a discreet appointment at senior leadership level, focused on driving the technical agenda across food safety, quality, and compliance. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in safeguarding product integrity, ensuring regulatory compliance, and leading technical excellence within a complex and fast-paced environment. Reporting to the Operations Director, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape the technical direction of a dynamic and progressive food business operating in the South West.

Key Responsibilities

1. Lead the technical and quality function across multiple manufacturing sites, ensuring robust compliance with all food safety, legal, and customer requirements.
2. Develop and execute a future-fit technical strategy in alignment with business objectives.
3. Champion best-in-class standards across HACCP, BRCGS, and customer audits.
4. Mentor and develop a high-performing technical team, fostering accountability and continuous improvement.
5. Serve as the technical liaison for major retail customers, third-party auditors, and industry bodies.
6. Oversee supplier approval, raw material risk assessments, and product integrity from concept to launch.

Candidate Profile

1. Significant experience in a senior technical or quality leadership role within food manufacturing.
2. Strong working knowledge of UK food legislation, GFSI standards (especially BRCGS), HACCP, and retailer requirements.
3. Proven track record in managing complex technical challenges in a high-volume production environment.
4. Confident, credible communicator with the ability to engage at all levels.
5. Degree or equivalent in Food Science, Microbiology, or related technical discipline.

What’s on Offer

1. Circa £100,000 base salary
2. Performance-related bonus
3. Car allowance or company vehicle
4. Private healthcare and pension
5. Opportunity to influence strategic direction in a progressive food business

This is a Private & Confidential search. Further details will be shared with candidates who demonstrate the relevant experience and seniority.