Overview
The Compleat Food Group is seeking a Technical & Food Safety Lead to manage all aspects of food safety and technical compliance across retail outlets, van sales, and vending operations. The role requires leadership in UK food safety regulation, quality systems, supplier audits, and collaboration with internal teams and regulators.
Responsibilities
* Lead and maintain full compliance with UK-specific food safety legislation.
* Ensure retail outlets adhere to hygiene regulations and FSA guidelines.
* Develop, implement, and maintain food safety management systems (e.g. HACCP).
* Liaise with regulatory authorities and Trading Standards to manage inspections and ensure best practices.
* Define and oversee the company's technical and quality standards for all products from sourcing to retail.
* Ensure suppliers and distributors meet food safety and quality standards, conducting audits and approving new suppliers as required.
* Manage allergen risk, microbiological safety, and accurate labelling for all retail products.
* Lead the identification, assessment, and mitigation of food safety risks across all outlets and the supply chain.
* Develop robust traceability systems to ensure quick response and compliance in the event of recalls or product quality issues.
* Handle food safety incidents, including customer complaints, recalls, and regulatory investigations.
* Conduct regular internal audits and coordinate third-party audits to ensure compliance with legislation and company standards.
* Monitor food safety performance metrics, analyse trends, and report key findings to senior leadership.
* Ensure up-to-date documentation and records are maintained to demonstrate compliance during inspections and audits.
Training, Culture & Stakeholder Collaboration
* Develop and implement food safety training programs for all staff.
* Foster a food safety culture, empowering staff at all levels to prioritise quality and food safety.
* Collaborate with suppliers, manufacturers, and logistics to ensure food safety and quality throughout the supply chain.
* Work closely with commercial & operations teams to align technical standards with business goals and consumer expectations.
* Build relationships with industry bodies and regulators, staying informed on food safety advancements and regulatory updates.
Sustainability, Innovation & Wellbeing
* Support the company's sustainability goals by ensuring food safety systems align with ethical sourcing, reduced waste, and eco-friendly packaging initiatives.
* Leverage new technologies for traceability and real-time monitoring to enhance food safety processes.
* Provide wellbeing and lifestyle resources where applicable as part of employee support offerings.
Qualifications
* Strong experience in food safety and technical management roles, ideally in UK retail or food manufacturing.
* Proven leadership experience.
* In-depth knowledge of UK food safety laws, including allergen management, labelling regulations, and supply chain compliance.
* Strong experience in retail management, managing supplier audits and building robust food safety systems.
* Degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Food Technology, or a related field.
* Professional certifications such as Level 4 HACCP Certification.
* Lead Auditor Qualification (or equivalent).
About The Compleat Food Group
We are a food business built on purpose and passion. Formed in 2021, we aim to create Food to Feel Good with great quality, tasty, and affordable food. We are home to diverse brands and a leading supplier of own-label products to UK retailers and foodservice. With over 6,000 colleagues across 17 sites and an annual turnover of £1.3bn, we are committed to fairness, equity, inclusivity, and respect. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome inquiries about Diversity & Inclusion or accessibility during the application process.
Benefits
* Competitive Car Allowance
* Salary Sacrifice Schemes (EVs, Home & Tech, Cycle to Work, SMART Pension)
* 33 days’ annual leave (including bank holidays) with option to purchase extra
* Holiday discounts via online platform
* Access to enhanced retail discounts online and in-store
* Free product handouts across sites
* EV charging points at selected sites
* GroceryAid and wellbeing resources
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