Head of Technical
The Role:
You will provide Technical and Quality Leadership for the challenging product categories that we operate in. Over time you will become a Subject Matter Expert in our products (if not already).
The Spice and Herb sector is considered high risk by many customers and requires that supply chain assurance and integrity are the main priorities.
Pulse flours are an exciting and emerging category being used in many more applications. We have steadily built this business but are now gearing up for a higher level of growth.
You will apply your depth of experience and expertise in managing the technical agenda to ensure compliance with customer requirements, M&S A-list, regulatory and third-party standards, while driving the improvement and efficiency of technical systems. A true hands-on attitude is necessary to manage and support your team of 10. Reporting to a Director, you will be part of the Leadership Team.
The Company:
Based in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, and operating from a purpose-built production facility and a second warehouse/office site, Virani Food Products Limited is a family-owned business employing 100 dedicated and professional staff.
Founded on the market-leading Virani brand of gram flour we have become the supplier of choice for spices, seasonings and pulse flours to many leading food manufacturing companies servicing the highly demanding UK retail market.
It's an exciting time to be joining us as we continue to scale up, take on new premises, that allow us to separate the activities of spices, herbs and seasonings from pulse flours, and explore new categories.
Responsibilities:
To efficiently and pro-actively lead the technical aspects of stakeholder relationships through regular contact with raw material suppliers and customers to develop standards and compliance.
To led the continuous improvement ethos in respect of recognised, prescribed, and developing internal and external Technical, Quality, Environmental, Hygiene and Food Safety policies, systems, standards, procedures and working practices, to meet business, legal, stakeholders and certification standards’ requirements and expectations.
To lead and manage the technical team to achieve business objectives.
To lead audits from customers and third parties, and with our suppliers as required.
To work closely with the Leadership Team to develop, improve and increase the efficiency and efficacy of systems and ways of working.
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+ years in a technical leadership position in the food industry, with specific experience of handling supplier and customer technical information.
~ High level of regulatory/compliance knowledge of allergen, contaminants and pesticides, preferably in herbs/spices/seasonings/ingredients
~ Experience of working with M&S supply chain and Codes of Practice.
Skills:
Excellent attention to detail
Fast paced working
Creative thinking
Excellent communication skills
Systematic approach
Excellent IT skills
Other requirements:
Right to work in UK
Ability to travel globally