Location: Slough, UK
Salary Range: £ 49,000 - 60,000, annual bonus, benefits
Job Purpose/Overview
Mars Chocolate Drinks and Treats is an entrepreneurial arms-length business focused on extending the Mars brands into new categories beyond confectionery through external partners (suppliers and distributors). The business operates in categories such as Milk Drinks, Hot Chocolate, Cakes & Bakes, Desserts, Chocolate Spreads, Cake Mixes, Free From, and Quick Serve Restaurants across the UK and Europe.
We are offering a unique opportunity to lead the technical delivery of a category, managing supplier/customer relationships across Q&FS, technical, legal compliance, and NPD as a Technical Head. The role requires 2 days per week in the office, with potential for 3 days remote work. From June 2025, the role will be based in Slough.
We seek a candidate with technical expertise and broad experience in food manufacturing, from product innovation to Quality and Food Safety management. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, working in a cross-functional team, and be connected to business results while gaining external insights and working within an agile environment.
What are we looking for?
Knowledge/Experience
* Science Degree with food manufacturing/quality background
* Audit experience (preferable)
* Allergen management knowledge and risk assessment skills
* Strong project management skills
Key Functional Competencies & Technical Skills
* Food manufacturing knowledge/experience
* Food Safety Management Standards (GMP, GHP, HACCP, allergens)
* Risk management skills
* Lead auditor qualification (preferable)
* Stakeholder management
Key Responsibilities
* Oversee all Technical and Quality aspects for this category
* Lead the category in developing and delivering new products and packaging with co-manufacturers
* Implement and maintain Mars Quality standards and initiatives
* Conduct technical audits of contract manufacturers
* Manage technical documentation for existing products and communicate updates to suppliers
* Monitor industry trends and incorporate insights into product development
* Address non-conformance issues, acting as the technical contact for factories
* Resolve technical issues impacting quality, cost, or supply
* Collaborate on new product development, including sample review and artwork coordination
What can you expect from Mars?
* Work with diverse, talented teams guided by the Five Principles
* Join a purpose-driven company committed to building a better tomorrow
* Receive top-tier learning and development support, including Mars University
* Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits, including a bonus
Mars is committed to diversity and inclusion, providing accommodations during the application process upon request. For assistance, complete our Reasonable Adjustment Request Form here.
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Mars is an equal opportunity employer, considering all qualified applicants without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application process upon request.
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