My job
Technical Systems Manager
Location: Bromborough
Reports to: Technical Manager
Department: Technical / Quality Assurance
Purpose of the Role:
To lead and manage the site's Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring compliance with food safety legislation, industry standards, and customer requirements. This role is pivotal in maintaining and enhancing the site's food safety culture and technical integrity.
Key Responsibilities:
* Own and maintain the site Quality Management System.
* Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, and customer specification systems.
* Lead and support external audits, customer visits, and technical reviews.
* Drive the development of the site's food safety culture.
* Ensure risk assessments (HACCP, VACCP, TACCP) are in place and effective.
* Manage specification systems including Point74 and Smilies.
* Oversee raw material, packaging, and finished product specification approvals.
* Lead artwork approval processes and customer technical documentation.
* Maintain QUOR paperless systems and document control.
* Liaise with suppliers and customers on quality-related issues.
* Design and maintain site vulnerability and threat assessments.
* Maintain allergen management systems and associated risk assessments.
* Ensure compliance with Pilgrim's standards, customer codes of practice, and third-party assurance schemes.
* Develop and manage microbiological and chemical testing programmes.
* Approve finished product shelf life and verify shelf life data.
* Use external resources (e.g., Campden BRI) to stay current with legislation and best practices.
* Ensure chain of custody processes are understood and demonstrable.
* Coordinate third-party audits and manage post-audit corrective actions.
* Deputise for the Technical Manager when required.
* Promote a culture of quality and food safety through visible leadership.
* Investigate non-conformances using root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
* Support achievement of site quality and food safety objectives.
Skills & Knowledge:
* Strong knowledge of GFSI standards (e.g., BRC, ISO22000).
* Familiarity with retailer food safety and integrity standards.
* Understanding of SHE procedures and practices.
* Experience conducting HACCP, VACCP, and TACCP risk assessments.
* Proven track record in managing third-party audits.
* Experience working with major retailers and manufacturing groups.
* Excellent organisational and planning skills.
* Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Qualifications:
* Degree in Food Science or equivalent relevant experience.
* HACCP Level 3 certification.
* Level 3 Food Safety in Manufacturing.
* Internal Auditor trained.
* Lead Assessor / BRC Auditor trained (preferred).
The company
Pilgrim's Europe produces some of the best-known and most iconic brands in the UK and Ireland, including Fridge Raiders, Rollover, Denny, Richmond, Oakhouse and Moy Park, alongside a diverse range of industry leading own-label products in categories including fresh pork, lamb and chicken, working with all the major retailers and food service outlets.
Our portfolio extends to authentic chilled and frozen ready meals, snacking ranges, added value and food service products.
Across Pilgrim's Europe we combine 20,000 of the best people in the industry, united by a shared set of core values and a passion for producing the highest quality, most delicious and innovative food, which is enjoyed by millions of people in the UK, Ireland and Europe every day. Our Pilgrim's Europe team are based in our Pilgrim's UK, Moy Park, Pilgrim's Food Masters and Pilgrim's Shared Services businesses.
What we'll bring to the table
Competitive Salary
Competitive Holiday Entitlement
Pension Contribution
Family Friendly Policies
Learning and Development Opportunities
Life Assurance
People matter
Our values
Determination
Simplicity
Availability
Humility
Discipline
Sincerity
Ownership