Head of Technical

Talent Guardian is partnering with an established and growing specialist manufacturer based near Farnborough to recruit an experienced Head of Technical.
 
This is a senior leadership opportunity within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You will lead the site's technical and quality operations, shape its technical strategy and ensure the highest standards of product safety, quality, compliance and sustainability.
 
Reporting directly into the international parent company, you will oversee the Technical, Quality Assurance and Quality Control functions while working closely with Operations, Supply Chain and other senior stakeholders.
 
What you'll be doing

Lead the site's technical function, ensuring products meet all safety, quality, legality and organoleptic requirements.
Define and implement quality and sustainability standards across the manufacturing process.
Ensure compliance with industry and international standards, including BRCGS, IFS, FDA and ISO 14001.
Lead external certification audits, regulatory inspections and internal technical assessments.
Own the site's Quality Management System, quality objectives, KPIs and management-review process.
Oversee change-control processes relating to products, raw materials and manufacturing processes.
Lead, develop and support the Technical, Quality Assurance and Quality Control teams.
Manage supplier quality, including supplier approvals, audits and performance reviews.
Investigate technical issues using root-cause analysis and implement effective corrective and preventative actions.
Identify and manage risks relating to product safety, quality, suppliers and regulatory changes.
Champion continuous improvement through Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen or similar methodologies.
Work cross-functionally to drive the technical, quality and sustainability agenda. What we're looking for

A degree in Food Science, Biological Science, Microbiology or a related subject.
A recognised Lead Auditor or Lead Assessor qualification.
Food Safety and HACCP Level 3 as a minimum.
At least five years' experience in a senior technical leadership role within food or another highly regulated manufacturing environment.
Proven experience leading and developing Technical, QA and QC teams.
In-depth knowledge of Quality Management Systems and standards such as BRCGS, IFS and FDA.
Experience managing regulatory inspections and certification audits.
Strong knowledge of product safety, quality and regulatory compliance.
Experience managing supplier and contractor relationships, including audits and performance reviews.
Excellent communication, leadership and stakeholder-management skills.
Strong problem-solving ability and a proactive, hands-on approach.
Full UK driving licence. Experience within liquid manufacturing, fermentation, nutritional products, functional beverages, dairy, brewing or another controlled biological process would be particularly advantageous