The Role – What You’ll Lead
* Own product safety, quality and compliance across all testing activities (raw materials, in-process, finished product, shelf life).
* Plan and oversee testing schedules, ensuring the correct methods are followed and results are recorded, monitored, analysed and trended.
* Manage and develop the Laboratory Technicians and Team Leader; foster a collaborative, high-performance culture with clear communication on food safety and quality issues.
* Maintain audit readiness: prepare for and participate in site accreditation audits (BRCGS), supporting the Technical Manager.
* Ensure all laboratory equipment is maintained, calibrated, validated and serviced to schedule; manage new installs and verifications.
* Coordinate external laboratory analysis and provide Certificates of Conformance to customers; initiate and manage non-conformance investigations with Technical and Production.
* Champion HACCP, Food Safety Management Systems, and robust laboratory procedures; oversee the Laboratory Manual and testing regimes in line with legislation and COSHH.
* Drive KPI reporting, root-cause analysis, corrective actions, and continuous improvement of testing procedures and documentation.
* Lead sensory panel training and uphold hygiene, housekeeping, and safety standards.
About You – Skills & Experience
* Confident people leader with excellent communication, problem-solving and coaching skills; experienced coordinating small teams in a lab environment.
* Strong working knowledge of BRCGS Food Safety, HACCP, CCP validation, microbiological safety and QMS platforms.
* Hands-on background in a laboratory function (ideally Food Science/Microbiology/Biology); meticulous attention to detail in reporting and SOP writing.
* Competent with Microsoft Office and comfortable with data trending/analysis.
Desirable
* HNC/Degree in a science-related subject with strong knowledge of Food Microbiology and Food Chemistry.
* Knowledge of the laboratory accreditation standards.
Hours & Location
40 hours per week, usually Monday–Friday, based at their Tewkesbury Production Site, with occasional out-of-hours presence for urgent operational needs.
Rewards & Benefits
* Competitive salary with growth and development opportunities
* 30 days’ holiday (rising after 3 years’ service)
* Cycle to Work scheme
* Discounted products & doorstep delivery
* Enhanced pension via Salary Exchange
* Health & wellbeing support through Simply Health (post-probation)
Salary description
£35000.00 - £37000.00 per year