Head of Technical
East of England
£75,000 - £95,000
Job Reference: GG/2604
Overview
Are you a rising star, ready to take full responsibility for a complex Technical function, or an established Head of Technical with a wealth of experience and the ambition and the ability to move into a divisional role?
Either way, this could be the perfect role for you!
You will play a pivotal role within an international food business with 5 sites in the UK. Their site in the East of England is currently benefiting from £7.5m+ investment designed to significantly increase capacity.
As the site and the UK business continue to grow, this role will develop into a bigger role with divisional responsibility.
The Role
As Head of Technical, you will lead for all aspects of food safety, legality, quality, and compliance. Reporting to the Group Technical Director, you will be part of the senior management team and work cross-functionally with internal and external stakeholders to ensure technical excellence. You’ll also play a key role in mentoring your team and supporting the wider division.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage the site technical function, ensuring compliance with food safety, legality, quality, and customer standards.
* Maintain and develop robust systems for BRC, BMPA, retailer, and export audits (including USA and China).
* Act as the primary contact for technical queries from retailers, auditors, and regulatory bodies.
* Build and maintain strong working relationships with the FSA, on-site Official Veterinarians (OVs), and external auditors.
* Lead site preparations for third-party and customer audits, ensuring readiness and continuous improvement.
* Provide guidance and development to a high-performing technical team, fostering a proactive compliance culture.
* Oversee traceability, quality systems, and non-conformance management across the site.
* Collaborate with production and supply chain teams to drive efficiency and food safety improvements.
* Contribute to technical strategies across the wider Livestock and Agriculture Division.
The Candidate
Essential:
* Proven experience in food manufacturing technical management
* Expertise in BRC, BMPA, and retailer technical standards
* Slaughter/abattoir operation background
* Experience working with the FSA and on-site OVs
* Strong leadership and team development skills
Desirable:
* Knowledge of export procedures to third countries, especially USA and China
* Livestock or agriculture experience
Next Steps
To apply for this Head of Technical opportunity, click apply or contact Gilbert Gregory on 07463222578 or gilbert.gregory@gregory-walker.co.uk quoting reference GG/2604.
About Your Recruitment Agency
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