Technical Manager

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Technical Manager to join a leading food producer in Kent, playing a key role in the development and success of a major new site.

This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of the site's Technical, Quality and Food Safety functions, ensuring the highest standards of product integrity, legal compliance and customer satisfaction. You will work closely with teams across the business to drive continuous improvement, strengthen technical processes and embed a positive food safety and quality culture.

• Lead, maintain and develop Food Safety, Quality and Product Integrity Management Systems.
• Ensure compliance with BRCGS, retailer technical standards, legal requirements and customer codes of practice.
• Lead and coordinate internal, external and customer audits, ensuring successful outcomes and timely close-out of actions.
• Manage HACCP, TACCP and internal audit programmes, promoting food safety awareness across all departments.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customer technical teams, managing visits, audits and day-to-day technical requirements.
• Oversee microbiological and pesticide testing schedules, supplier due diligence and document control.
• Manage customer complaints, service levels, product rejections and root cause analysis, implementing effective corrective actions.
• Support product traceability, withdrawals and recalls where required.
• Drive continuous improvement, technical performance and a strong quality-led culture throughout the site.

• Significant experience in a Technical or Quality role within the food manufacturing or fresh produce industry.
• Strong knowledge of food safety legislation, HACCP, BRCGS and major retailer standards.
• HACCP Level 3 qualification, alongside Lead Auditor or Internal Auditor training.
• Proven experience managing technical teams and influencing stakeholders across a business.
• Excellent communication, organisational and analytical skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• A proactive, hands-on approach with the confidence to lead, challenge and drive improvements.

Experience with in fruit commodities, packaging artwork approval or sustainability would be advantageous.

This is an excellent opportunity to join an established and respected food business at an exciting stage of development. You will have the autonomy to shape technical standards, influence operational performance and help establish a first-class food safety and quality culture at a leading new site in Kent.