Head of Technical

The Company

Are you ready to take the next career defining step with a major food business developing an increasingly prominent position within the market place? This is an excellent chance to join a nationally recognised food company who are going through an exciting period of rapid growth and change. They are now seeking an exceptional Technical star with strategic vision and strong leadership skills to help drive the food technical agenda.

The Role

In this senior management role you’ll be accountable for developing the technical product strategy, taking ownership of a number of food categories to drive quality, integrity and process innovation.  You’ll be leading a team of high performing technical experts to deliver the category strategy in alignment with long term plans for the wider business. Up to date with the latest food legislation you’ll use your industry knowledge to manage your team and drive the technical agenda, following up on issues and resolving any areas of potential risk to guarantee the best products for your customers.

One of the core elements of this role will involve the development of a comprehensive supply base strategy, ensuring supplier performance is measured and delivered in compliance with quality and safety legislation as well as the company’s ethical policy for product sustainability. You’ll employ a collaborative approach and build strong partnerships with the supply base, working closely with Buyers to revolutionise current sourcing methods and add value whilst retaining key company values for sustainability and quality. You’ll also develop rigorous benchmarking and performance monitoring processes, ensuring the highest quality levels to exceed customer and stakeholder expectations.

In addition you’ll be responsible for supporting the delivery of new and existing product development, providing technical expertise to ensure the categories continue to deliver product integrity and supplier efficiency. You’ll form bonds with internal teams and stakeholders, encouraging proactive collaboration and interdepartmental relationships. You’ll also use your influencing skills to steer the direction of the categories whilst bridging the gap between NPD and technical to launch products that are not only totally compliant with company policy and legislation but also market winners too.

The Person

We are looking for an ambitious, commercially-focussed Senior Technical Manager with a Food Science / Technology background, a flair for technical innovation and extensive experience of working within food retail.  You will need to be an experienced leader and have previously developed high performing teams.

You’ll have acquired a proven track record of successfully liaising with and influencing supply partners and internal procurement teams where you have helped to develop sourcing systems and procurement processes. You'll also need an exceptional working knowledge of technical standards including HACCP, quality management and food safety.

You’ll be operating at a strategic level, so outstanding communication and relationship building skills are essential as you’ll be liaising with supply and commercial contacts to successfully manage and drive positive changes in order to deliver award winning products. You’ll also have first rate project management skills and the resilience to persevere with challenges in order to form and deliver a world class strategy for this prominent company.

So if you’ve got the confidence, passion and breadth of experience to make an impact in this role then we’d love to hear from you. Apply now or call Dhrutee on 0345 2600 737 to find out more.

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Also, please note that we are only able to accept and respond to applications from candidates with eligibility to work in the UK and those who hold valid work visas.