Technical & Operational Excellence Manager
Location: Field-Based (Minimum 3 Days On-Site Weekly)
Function: Technical & Quality
Reports To: Head of Technical & Quality
Travel: Up to 70% across manufacturing sites
Are you passionate about driving quality, safety, and continuous improvement across manufacturing operations?
Join Müller as a Technical & Operational Excellence Manager and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of food safety and product quality across our network of sites.
About the Role
This is a high-impact, cross-functional role focused on eliminating repeat food safety and quality issues. You’ll lead root cause investigations, coach site teams, and embed a culture of technical excellence and proactive problem-solving. Acting as a central technical expert, you’ll influence standards, drive compliance, and support continuous improvement across the business.
Key Responsibilities as Technical & Operational Excellence Manager:
* Lead structured investigations into repeat non-conformances using tools like 5 Whys, Fishbone, and DMAIC.
* Develop and manage a network-wide non-conformance matrix and trend analysis.
* Ensure robust validation and verification programs are in place and effective.
* Drive corrective and preventative actions (CAPA) and verify their long-term success.
* Coach and challenge site technical teams to build RCA capability and audit readiness.
* Collaborate with Manufacturing, Engineering, NPD, and Supply Chain to embed technical excellence.
* Report performance against KPIs and escalate strategic risks to senior leadership.
What We’re Looking For:
* Degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Dairy Science, or related field.
* Experience in a senior technical or quality role within FMCG (preferably dairy or chilled food).
* Strong knowledge of food safety standards (BRCGS, HACCP, ISO 22000).
* Advanced problem-solving and continuous improvement skills (Lean Six Sigma preferred).
* Excellent communicator and influencer, able to lead without direct authority.
* Highly analytical, resilient, and collaborative.
What We Offer:
* Competitive salary and bonus scheme.
* Company car or car allowance.
* Generous holiday entitlement.
* Pension scheme with company contributions.
* Private healthcare options.
* Professional development and training opportunities.
* Safe, modern working environments with state-of-the-art equipment.
* Supportive culture focused on growth, innovation, and continuous improvement.
* Long-term career opportunities with a market-leading brand.
Ready to make a difference?
Apply now and help us deliver safe, high-quality products, right first time, every time.