Role
The factory hygiene Specialist is responsible for leading the site hygiene programme and supporting the manufacturing operation in all aspects of cleaning and hygiene management. The role holder is a key member within the Quality Team, reporting to the Technical Lead, and brings technical knowledge, tenacity, and a professional approach to maintain high hygiene standards and resolve issues.
Responsibilities
- Report to Technical Lead and serve as first point of contact for all hygiene matters.
- Implement, maintain and verify comprehensive cleaning schedules for production equipment and the manufacturing environment.
- Maintain a product and mix allergen matrix, apply segregation and cleaning rules, and support allergen or lifestyle related product claims (e.g., dairy‑free, vegan), including validation procedures.
- Provide expert input to HACCP teams and project teams for new products and processes.
- Deliver ongoing training programmes to promote effective cleaning and educate staff on food safety.
- Lead cleaning and disinfection validation studies, conduct hygienic assessments, and monitor process and environmental microbiological indicators.
- Drive investigations of hygiene non‑conformances and coordinate corrective actions.
- Lead continuous improvement activities to enhance cleaning operations and hygiene standards across the site.
- Manage service contracts for third‑party hygiene service providers (pest control, chemical suppliers, cleaning providers) and oversee the pest control programme.
- Maintain the system for toxicological approval of food contact surfaces.
- Deputise for the Technical Lead and cover other roles within the Quality Team.
- Represent the site on European working groups concerning hygiene or other food safety matters.
- Maintain FSSC22000 certification, taking ownership for hygiene aspects of the standard.
- Safely manage hygiene‑related site contractors and issue permits as required.
- Line‑manage any direct reports or technicians reporting to the hygiene manager.
- Identify and pursue cost‑saving opportunities related to cleaning, chemicals, or hygiene.
Key Performance Indicators
- Cleaning & Disinfection Programme
- Hygiene & Housekeeping Programme
- Allergen Management
- Pest Control
- Environmental Monitoring
Qualifications & Requirements
- Degree‑level education with a strong technical background in food or general sciences.
- Working knowledge of FSSC or BRC standards.
- Proven experience in food manufacturing, quality or hygiene roles, and deputising within a quality department.
- Training or experience in hygienic design and processes.
- Relevant experience in Quality Assurance, Laboratory, and food safety management.
- Leadership experience and the ability to motivate and manage people.
- Strong problem‑solving, initiation, and decisive decision‑making skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
- Competence in Microsoft Office applications; SAP experience is an advantage.
- Driving licence holder preferred.
- Willingness to work some weekend or out‑of‑hours hours and occasional travel within the UK and Europe.
Benefits
- Market‑competitive salary and performance‑related rewards.
- Support for health, wellbeing and life outside work.
- Time off to rest and recharge.
- Ongoing learning and development opportunities.
- Benefits vary by location.
Equal Opportunity & Diversity Statement
The Magnum Ice Cream Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can do their best work regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.
