Role Definition
The Compliance Manager is pivotal in maintaining the highest standards of food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance within the organisation. This role is tasked with leading the development, implementation, and ongoing enhancement of compliance programs, ensuring that Quality Management Systems (QMS) surpass industry standards, meet customer expectations, and fulfil regulatory requirements. The Compliance Manager is instrumental in fostering a culture of quality excellence, driving process improvements, and cultivating strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the business.
Key Responsibilities
* Quality Management Systems Responsibility for the QMS, HACCP, internal audits, and technical training frameworks, ensuring they consistently exceed industry benchmarks and customer specifications.
* Regulatory & Compliance Oversight Guarantee full adherence to key standards, including BRC, GMP, HACCP, Kosher, and SMETA/SEDEX
* Audit Readiness & Compliance Drive a proactive approach to internal and external audit readiness by ensuring systems, documentation, and operational standards are maintained at all times. Lead BRCGS, customer, and third-party audits, coordinating pre audit preparation and leading the closure of any non-conformances and deputise for Product Quality and Safety Manager in times of absence.
* HACCP & Risk Management Manage the HACCP program, promoting risk-based decision-making across operations. Implement proactive risk assessments and mitigation strategies to ensure food safety and protect brand integrity.
* Allergen and Species Management Manage allergen and species risk management programs, driving risk-based decision-making to ensure accurate labelling, prevent cross-contamination, and verify species authenticity. Responsible for managing risk assessments, setting validation plans and ensuring their effective execution. Implement proactive assessments and control measures to safeguard consumers and uphold brand trust.
* VACCP & TACCP Management Manage on-site VACCP and TACCP programs to prevent food fraud and intentional contamination within the facility. Lead site-level vulnerability and threat assessments, identifying potential access points, tampering risks, and economically motivated adulteration threats. Implement robust physical, procedural, and personnel controls to mitigate risks, including restricted access, staff training, and surveillance measures. Ensure all controls are validated, documented, and regularly reviewed for effectiveness. Promote a strong food defence culture by fostering awareness, accountability, and readiness across all operational areas.
* Pest Control & Site Hygiene GovernanceOversee and enhance the Pest Control Program, enforcing a zero-tolerance policy for contamination risks and strict adherence to regulatory and site-specific standards. Implement leading hygiene, allergen control, and foreign body management programs.
* Supplier & Raw Material Compliance Collaborate with procurement and technical teams to ensure supplier compliance, raw material integrity, and traceability, effectively mitigating risks within the supply chain.
* Supplier & And Service provider Approval & Performance Monitoring Management of on-site supplier and service provider approval processes by ensuring relevant documentation is maintained and verified in line with site and customer requirements. Assist in monitoring ongoing performance through review of non-conformances, complaints, and audit outcomes. Work closely with the QA Manager to highlight trends, escalate concerns, and contribute to continuous improvement of supplier standards.
* Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence Foster a culture of continuous improvement by utilising data-driven decision-making, identifying trends in Quality KPIs, and implementing corrective and preventive actions to enhance performance.
* Stakeholder & Customer Engagement Serve as the compliance lead for customer inquiries, external audits, and regulatory bodies. Build strong relationships with accreditation organisations, authorities, and key industry stakeholders to elevate the site’s reputation.
* Hygiene Improvement Strategy Develop and implement a comprehensive hygiene improvement plan to enhance sanitation practices across the site.
* Hygiene Innovation Identify and implement new technologies and methodologies to improve hygiene effectiveness and operational efficiency.
* Team Development & Leadership Lead and mentor the compliance team, promoting a culture of proactive problem-solving, accountability, and collaboration. Ensure structured technical training to enhance skills and embed best practices throughout the site.
* Non-Conformance & Incident Management Conduct thorough investigations of non-conformances, customer complaints, and product safety incidents, employing structured problem-solving methodologies to prevent recurrence and promote quality improvements.
* Change Control & Technical Compliance Manage technical actions associated with HUB management, commissioning, and change control processes to align with business objectives and strengthen compliance robustness.
* KPI Improvement Plan Establish and track quality and food safety Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), implementing structured improvement plans to elevate product standards, minimise non-conformances, and achieve operational excellence.
* Support for Site Food Safety Culture Promote and embed a quality-first culture by acting as a role model and advocate for high standards across departments. Contribute to the delivery of the site’s Food Safety and Quality Plan and ensure that actions are completed on time and effectively..
You
Qualifications and Experience
* Proven experience in compliance, quality, or food safety management within the food manufacturing industry.
* Strong knowledge of HACCP, BRC, GMP, and other industry standards (e.g., Kosher, SMETA/SEDEX).
* HACCP Level 3 minimum; Food Safety Level 3 or higher (or equivalent).
* Experience in audit management, compliance systems, and regulatory frameworks.
* Familiarity with pest control, hygiene, allergen management, and QMS processes.
* Demonstrated leadership skills, with experience managing teams and fostering a culture of excellence.
* Ability to work cross-functionally and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Personal Attributes
* Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and compliance excellence.
* Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders.
* Analytical and problem-solving mindset, capable of managing risk and implementing solutions effectively.
* Proactive and strategic thinker, able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
* Passionate about food safety and quality, with a drive for continuous improvement.
How to apply
If this really sounds like you and you want to be considered for theCompliance Manager position send your CV to bobby@recruitment-wolf.co.uk
On applying for this job, you consent to Recruitment Wolf Limited holding your details on file to be able to contact you about your job search.
We aim to contact you within 24 hours on the assumption that your credentials fit the requirements for the role.
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