Head of Compliance
£60,000 to £70,000 + benefits
Full time - Monday to Friday
Hybrid
About the role
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Head of Compliance to lead the Compliance function within a leading distribution and supply business. The role works closely with Buying, Category Management and Sustainability teams to embed regulatory requirements into sourcing and packaging strategies, helping maintain the organisation's strong reputation for product and supplier compliance.
Why Apply?
Join a market‑leading distribution business with a strong reputation for quality, compliance, and innovation. This is an opportunity to contribute to a collaborative, commercially focused environment while developing your expertise and making a real impact.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, mentor, and develop a team of compliance professionals, setting clear objectives, KPIs, and performance standards.
* Plan workloads and allocate resources effectively to ensure the compliance function operates efficiently.
* Ensure the business meets all relevant UK and EU regulations relating to food safety, packaging, and hospitality standards.
* Monitor emerging legislation, assess impact in collaboration with Sustainability teams, and prepare the organisation for change.
* Drive continuous improvement through digital tools and process enhancements to increase efficiency and reduce manual workload.
* Work closely with Buying and Category Management teams to embed compliance into sourcing, supplier selection, and product lifecycle decisions.
* Oversee due diligence for new products, including technical documentation, packaging approvals, and supplier audits.
* Provide regulatory guidance during product development, range reviews, and in response to new environmental or industry legislation.
* Maintain accurate and complete compliance data, ensuring correct product setup, classification, and reporting across systems.
* Support commercial decision‑making by balancing regulatory requirements with operational practicality and business objectives.
Key Requirements
* Proven experience in a compliance, regulatory, or technical role within catering, hospitality, foodservice, or FMCG sectors.
* Knowledge of food packaging and/or food contact materials is highly desirable.
* Demonstrated experience in managing, leading, and developing teams.
* Strong understanding of food safety, packaging regulations, and relevant regulatory frameworks.
* Experience collaborating with commercial teams, including Buyers and Category Managers.
* Skilled in managing product specifications, technical documentation, and compliance records.
* Ability to interpret legislation and translate regulatory requirements into practical, actionable business processes.
* Highly detail‑oriented with a strong focus on governance and compliance standards.
* Commercially savvy, applying a practical and pragmatic approach to decision‑making.
* Strategic thinker who can also take a hands‑on approach when needed.
* Effective collaborator with the ability to teams.
* Confident and credible when engaging with senior stakeholders.
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