Supplier & Raw Materials Technologist

Heanor/Leeds Office Base - Hybrid working with 3 days on local site per week.

• Supplier Management & Risk Control
  • Build strong, proactive relationships with suppliers.
  • Lead ingredient and raw material risk assessments to meet Valeo Foods' standards, customer expectations, and third‑party certification requirements.
• Ethical & Responsible Sourcing
  • Ensure suppliers comply with Valeo Foods' Ethical Framework (including SEDEX).
  • Assess ethical risks through audits, documentation reviews, and on-site visits.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration
  • Partner with Procurement, NPD, Technical and Quality teams on all supplier and raw material matters.
  • Support customer technical teams, providing confidence in our supply chain controls and participating in customer visits and audits.
• Maintain and continuously update the approved supplier list.
• Conduct raw material risk assessments and manage testing schedules, including Free From campaigns.
• Oversee raw material traceability and mass balance across the supply base.
• Ensure supplier compliance with HACCP, BRC, and other relevant food safety standards.
• Carry out supplier audits in line with the risk‑based audit schedule.
• Review, maintain, and improve raw material specifications to meet customer and industry requirements.
• Support site Technical and Quality teams with supplier‑related issues and non‑conformance improvement initiatives.
• Work with HR to identify and manage risks related to supplier ethical compliance.

• Demonstrable experience in the food industry or a similar environment, ideally with a strong focus on supplier management.
• HACCP Level 3 qualification, plus hands‑on experience with BRC compliance and audits.
• Proven experience conducting supplier audits, risk assessments, and driving supplier performance.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to build trust and influence both internally and externally.
• A proactive, practical, and solution‑driven mindset, with the confidence to tackle supplier quality issues and deliver continuous improvement.
• A degree (or equivalent) in Food Science or a related discipline would be desirable.
• A full driving licence.

• Matched pension scheme
• Death in service
• Cycle to work scheme
• Canteen
• Retailer discount platform
• Staff discount