Our client is growing – and with growth comes opportunity. They are now seeking an exceptional Senior Technical Manager to take ownership of technical standards across their business and help shape the future of their fresh produce operation.
This is a newly created, senior leadership role, reporting directly to the Managing Director. It offers the chance to build, lead and influence the technical function at a strategic level, while remaining closely connected to growers, customers and the supply chain.
The Opportunity
The Senior Technical Manager will lead all aspects of food safety, quality, and compliance, ensuring the highest standards are maintained across all UK sites and crops. From overseeing HACCP and external audits to driving continuous improvement and innovation, this role sits at the heart of the business.
Working collaboratively across teams, the successful candidate will be a trusted technical authority, confident engaging with major customers, growers, and certification bodies, while also developing people, systems, and future-focused initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
1. Lead and develop the company’s technical, food safety and quality systems
2. Own HACCP, due diligence, audits and certifications (Red Tractor, LEAF, GlobalG.A.P. and more)
3. Act as the senior technical contact for customers and out-of-hours incidents
4. Partner with Grower Relations to deliver a clear, practical technical strategy
5. Strengthen grower and supplier relationships through visits, audits and collaboration
6. Track quality performance, identify trends and drive corrective action
7. Lead R&D, NPD trials and innovation across crops
8. Champion ethical, environmental and sustainability programmes
9. Manage and develop the technical team and annual technical budget
About You
We are looking for a seasoned fresh produce professional with the confidence and credibility to operate at senior level.
You will bring:
10. At least 5 years’ experience in fresh produce
11. Strong agronomy experience and qualifications
12. Proven experience working with UK retailers and processors
13. In-depth knowledge of food safety, quality and compliance standards
14. Excellent communication skills and the confidence to challenge constructively
15. A calm, proactive and improvement-driven mindset
The Package
In return, our client offers a competitive salary with performance-related bonus, alongside a strong benefits package including hybrid working, pension, life assurance, health insurance, vehicle and tech provision. Ongoing training and development is actively encouraged.
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