Overview
A leading food manufacturer in the Barnsley area is seeking a hands-on Technical Manager to oversee day-to-day technical operations at a high-performing production site. This is a key role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, can maintain excellent food-safety and quality standards, and enjoys driving improvements across the factory.
The successful candidate will lead the on-site technical team, manage standards and compliance, and act as the technical authority for production, quality and customer requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Day-to-Day Technical Leadership
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Lead and support the on-site technical/QA team, ensuring daily technical operations run smoothly.
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Maintain a strong presence on the factory floor to uphold standards and support operations.
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Oversee technical checks, documentation, compliance activities and factory technical routines.
Non-Conformance & Investigation Management
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Manage all non-conformances: identify issues, complete root-cause analysis and close out corrective actions.
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Lead investigations for customer complaints, internal issues and audit findings.
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Drive effective CAPA activity and ensure preventative measures are implemented.
Compliance, Standards & Audits
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Ensure site compliance with all food-safety and quality requirements (HACCP, QMS, retailer COPs, BRCGS).
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Maintain and develop QMS documentation and procedures.
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Prepare the site for internal audits, customer visits and third-party accreditation audits.
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Deliver GMP, hygiene and allergen-training sessions to operational teams.
Continuous Improvement & Innovation
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Identify and implement technical improvements across quality, safety and process controls.
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Work cross-functionally to support product trials, process validation and efficiency improvements.
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Introduce new ideas that enhance product quality, improve consistency or strengthen technical systems.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
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Act as the technical point of contact for production, engineering, NPD and supply chain teams.
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Participate in site meetings, presenting technical performance, trends and improvement actions.
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Build strong relationships internally and externally, supporting customer expectations and standards.
Candidate Profile
Experience
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Proven background as a Technical Manager, QA Manager or Senior QA/Technical professional within food manufacturing.
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Strong knowledge of HACCP, BRCGS and UK food-safety legislation.
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Experience managing audits, complaints, non-conformances and QMS systems.
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Ideally experienced in chilled, meat, protein, bakery or FMCG environments - but open to strong candidates from any food category.
Skills & Attributes
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Strong leadership and communication skills.
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Confident decision-maker with an excellent eye for detail.
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Analytical approach with the ability to interpret data and drive improvements.
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Able to work at pace and manage multiple priorities.
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Passionate about standards, structure and continuous improvement.
Next Steps
If this sounds interesting, please contact me on the links below or apply directly