My job
Location: Anwick
Reports To: Technical Manager
Department: Technical / Quality Assurance
Job Purpose
To take full responsibility for advising on all technical aspects of factory production and its environment during relevant shifts. Ensure all products meet customer and legal requirements, particularly regarding food safety. Collaborate with the factory team to drive continuous improvement and uphold the highest standards of quality and hygiene.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead successful new product and process introductions, including specifications, product information, reference samples, photographs, Use By schedules, and proofing specs.
* Design, implement, maintain, and continuously improve a HACCP-based Quality Management System aligned with industry best practices, BRC standards, customer requirements, and legislative guidelines.
* Monitor factory cleaning, housekeeping, and hygiene standards through audits and analysis of reports, developing action plans for recurring non-conformances.
* Manage corrective actions for non-conforming ingredients/products, including holds, rejects, and returns, ensuring swift resolution.
* Provide technical guidance, training, and support to other departments to enhance awareness and understanding of technical issues.
* Manage line technical staff, including recruitment, training, performance monitoring, and disciplinary actions.
* Drive product, process, and environmental improvements to meet customer and legislative requirements and internal KPIs.
* Deliver daily operational reports to facilitate problem-solving and continuous improvement.
* Liaise with customers and statutory bodies during audits and visits, ensuring accurate information is provided and corrective actions are implemented.
* Analyze microbiological and chemical results, respond to customer out-of-specification reports, and implement preventative measures.
* Participate in internal and independent audits.
* Manage serious incidents and crisis situations, including water quality and environmental impact reduction.
* Lead or support projects such as complaint reduction and GSOP implementation.
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Essential
* Good level of education.
* Experience in FMCG food industry, including auditing.
* Strong communication, interpersonal, negotiation, and organisational skills.
* Proven leadership and personal development capabilities.
* Self-motivated, well-organised, and assertive.
* Logical thinker with excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
* Skilled in report and procedural writing.
Desirable
* 3rd level qualification in a relevant discipline.
* Working knowledge of ISO 9000, BRC, HACCP, food legislation, and hygiene standards.
* Experience in training, project management, and coaching.
* Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with customers and stakeholders.
* Advanced Diploma in Applied HACCP Principles.
* Advanced Food Hygiene certification.
* Internal auditing experience.
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