Job Description
Supply Assurance Manager
?? Locations: Grantham
?? Department: Technical
?? Reporting to: Head of Supply Assurance
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced and motivated Supply Assurance Manager to join our Technical team. In this role, you will lead supplier approval and assurance activities across our food supply base, ensuring the highest standards of food safety, quality, and integrity.
You will play a key role in strengthening supplier performance, managing risk, and driving continuous improvement—while working closely with procurement teams to enhance efficiency and deliver value across the business.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage the approval and ongoing assurance of food suppliers
* Conduct risk assessments, onboarding new suppliers and maintaining supplier compliance
* Develop and deliver a programme of supplier audits, traceability exercises, and performance reviews
* Evaluate supplier documentation, audit reports, and performance data
* Drive corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives
* Maintain up-to-date approved supplier lists and risk assessment records
* Build strong, collaborative relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders
* Escalate risks and performance issues where necessary
* Support procurement in improving supply base quality and efficiency
* Analyse and report on KPIs and supplier performance metrics
* Support internal and external audits, including factory audits
* Lead or contribute to system and process improvements across the function
What We're Looking For
Essential:
* Food-related qualification or experience in a similar role
* Hands-on experience in systems auditing
* Strong knowledge of BRCGS Food standards and food legislation
* Excellent communication and influencing skills
* Experience in root cause analysis and problem-solving
* Strong attention to detail and a proactive, self-motivated approach
* Ability to challenge constructively and drive high standards
* IT proficiency (Office 365, SharePoint, and systems such as Foods Connected)
* Willingness to travel extensively to support supplier audits
Desirable:
* Level 3 Food Safety qualification
* HACCP Level 4 certification
* Knowledge of VACCP principles
* Experience working with external auditors, suppliers, or customers
* Broad experience across food industry categories
* Proven ability to build and maintain supplier relationships
Why Join Us?
* Opportunity to make a real impact on supply chain quality and performance
* Work in a collaborative, forward-thinking technical team
* Be part of a business committed to continuous improvement and excellence
* Diverse role with exposure to suppliers across multiple locations
Key Deliverables
* Fully maintained and up-to-date supplier risk assessments
* Audits, traceability exercises, and assurance activities delivered on schedule
* Measurable improvements in supplier performance
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