Technical Manager

Technical ManagerSalary: 50k Location: SomersetReporting to: Chief Operating OfficerDirect Reports: Quality Team Leader, NPD ManagerOverviewA growing and dynamic manufacturing business within the nutrition and health products sector is seeking a Technical Manager to lead quality, food safety, and product development activities.This is a pivotal role responsible for ensuring all products meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and compliance, while supporting innovation and new product development in line with customer and market requirements. The role will operate within a highly regulated environment, maintaining top-tier audit standards (e.g. BRCGS AA+).Key ResponsibilitiesQuality & Food Safety LeadershipLead and continuously improve the Quality Management System (QMS) and HACCP frameworkEnsure full compliance with food safety, legal, and customer requirementsMaintain and uphold high-level audit standards (e.g. BRCGS), including audit readiness and executionAct as the primary contact for customer and third-party audits, managing outcomes and corrective actionsDrive internal audit programmes and continuous improvement initiativesTechnical & Customer SupportProvide expert technical guidance to customers on product application, formulation, and complianceAct as a key interface between customers, suppliers, and internal teams on all technical mattersSupport and advise on food safety, hygiene, GMP, and best practice across manufacturingNew Product Development (NPD)Lead technical input into NPD from concept through to factory scale-upSupport trials, validation, and successful launch of new productsOversee artwork approval and ensure compliance with regulatory and customer requirementsSupplier & Compliance ManagementManage supplier approval processes and conduct supplier audits where requiredMaintain raw material and finished product specificationsEnsure compliance with relevant legislation and industry standardsCross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with production, operations, and commercial teams to ensure delivery of safe, compliant, and high-quality productsSupport alignment between customer expectations and operational capabilityLeadership & Team DevelopmentLead, coach, and develop a growing technical and quality teamSet clear objectives, KPIs, and development plans aligned to business goalsDrive a high-performance, quality-focused culture across the organisationSkills & ExperienceEssentialProven experience in a Technical or Quality leadership role within food or nutrition manufacturingStrong knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and quality management systemsExperience managing customer and third-party auditsIn-depth understanding of food legislation, compliance, and manufacturing standardsStrong leadership and team development capabilityDesirableExperience in senior technical leadership rolesExposure to product development and retail or international standardsKnowledge of ISO standards (e.g. ISO14001, ISO45001)QualificationsDegree in Food Science, Food Safety, or a related disciplineHACCP Level 4Food Safety Level 4Lead Auditor qualification (desirable)Personal AttributesResults-driven with a strong focus on quality and continuous improvementHighly organised with strong attention to detailConfident decision-maker with excellent problem-solving skillsStrong communicator, able to influence at all levelsProactive, hands-on, and adaptable approachCollaborative team player with a professional mindsetDiscipline(s): Beauty & Personal CareJob type: Permanent