Job Title: Assistant Technical Manager Location: Kent About the Role: Protea Recruitment is excited to partner with a leading manufacturer in the food industry to recruit an Assistant Technical Manager. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated and experienced professional to join a progressive and dynamic team. The role supports the Technical Manager in ensuring compliance with food safety, quality standards, and regulatory requirements, driving excellence across the business. Key Responsibilities: * Assist in maintaining and developing the company's food safety and quality management systems. * Conduct internal audits and support the preparation for external audits, ensuring compliance with industry standards such as BRC and retailer-specific requirements. * Oversee and manage customer complaints, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions. * Collaborate with production, NPD, and other teams to ensure quality standards are met during the manufacturing process. * Monitor and verify compliance with HACCP and food safety practices. * Train and support staff on technical and quality-related matters. * Liaise with customers and suppliers on technical issues, ensuring prompt resolution. * Support the Technical Manager in reporting on performance metrics and implementing continuous improvement initiatives. Candidate Requirements: * A degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related discipline. * Proven experience in a technical or quality assurance role within the food manufacturing sector. * Knowledge of HACCP principles, food safety regulations, and quality management systems. * Strong understanding of BRC standards and experience with retailer audits. * Excellent problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to quality and technical challenges. * Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders. * Attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment. What We Offer: * A competitive salary * Opportunities for professional development and career progression. * A supportive and collaborative work environment. * The chance to contribute to the success of a thriving, innovative business