You are a Technical Expert with experience and expertise in leading a team of Technologists to collate a high level of accurate technical information relating to raw materials and our supplier base through to finished product specifications, etc for our food manufacturing customers. A hands-on attitude is necessary to lead and support your team. You will report to our Head of Technical and with our Quality Manager and Internal Auditor you will be a part of the Technical Leadership team. Responsibilities: To lead and develop the Technologist team and systems managing the provision of raw material risk assessment, surveillance testing schedules, supply chain maps, allergen information, supplier audits etc. Provision of technical information for relevant documentation including raw material and finished product specifications to meet customer, legal and third-party requirements To capture detailed knowledge of supply chain to facilitate better visibility of risks and implementation of relevant controls, including carrying out supplier audits globally as part of supplier approval and monitoring To identify and capture regulatory information, and interpret data/test results, to ensure compliance with customer, legal and third-party requirements To efficiently and pro-actively manage technical aspects of stakeholder relationships with regular review meetings with raw material suppliers and customers to work on priorities/quality/food safety related issues. Communication of agreed actions for priorities/improvement to internal and external stakeholders To lead continuous improvement by working alongside the team, prioritising and completing work to deadlines using data and better systems to drive improved levels of service to customers and effectively utilise resources. To work closely with the wider team to develop and improve business systems. To lead customer and third part audits as required. Qualifications Degree (ideally in a scientific subject) Food manufacturing HACCP level 3 or 4 VACCP/raw material risk assessment qualification Supplier Audit qualification Experience 5 plus years preferably in management, working with technical information in the food industry Regulatory knowledge relating to herbs/spices/seasonings and ingredients Knowledge of contaminants and pesticides in herbs/spices/seasonings/ingredients would be useful Supplier auditing Skills Excellent attention to detail Fast paced working Creative thinking Excellent communication skills Systematic approach Excellent IT skills e.g. excel Other requirements Right to work in UK Ability to travel globally