As Assistant Technical Manager, you will assume a critical role in the organisation. This position demands proactive leadership, effective team management, and a steadfast commitment to upholding and enhancing quality standards, including compliance with TFMS, BRC, and other pertinent quality and HACCP systems. Key Responsibilities: 1. Collaborative Team Management: Support and work closely with the Technical Manager, contributing as an essential member of the management team. Where appropriate deputise for the Technical Manager i.e. Leading Customer and Third-Party Audits, Attendance and/or Chairing relevant Meetings etc Ensure strict adherence to customers quality standards in addition to certified standards including but not limited to TFMS, BRCGS, RSPO, Soil Association and other relevant systems. 2. Technical Support: Act as a central point of contact, offering support to quality and production teams on quality and technical-related challenges. Implement a systematic approach to report and rectify any non-compliances to quality or food safety procedures, ensuring swift corrective actions and detailed reporting to the Technical Manager. 3. Quality and HACCP System Improvement: Lead initiatives to drive and implement improvements across plant-wide Quality and HACCP systems. Proactively cultivate an environment where the business is consistently "Audit" ready, collaborating closely with the Quality Manager and the production team. 4. Supplier Management: Take charge of addressing any supplier non-conformances, overseeing the implementation of corrective actions, and providing comprehensive reports. Support with the maintenance of the Supplier Approval and Monitoring Programme 5. Adaptability and Additional Duties: Demonstrate adaptability to respond effectively to evolving needs and challenges as directed by the Technical Manager and/or Director. Undertake any reasonable duties directed by the Technical Manager and/or the Director. 6. System Management: Oversee the efficient management of Quality and HACCP systems within the department, ensuring continuous improvement. Support Team with completion of Internal Audits as required. 7. Desirable Qualifications and Skills: Diploma / bachelors degree in a relevant field (Food science, Quality management). Proven track record and experience in a similar role within the food industry (Min 3 Years) Experience with Major Retailers such as but not limited to Tesco, Sainsburys, John Lewis, The Co-Operative etc. Comprehensive understanding of Quality Standards, HACCP (Certified to Level 3 Minimum), and food safety regulations 8. Desirable But Not Essential: Experience in Plant Based, Vegan and Vegetarian Product manufacture. Experience in High-Risk Production Requirements Experience in Chilled and/or Frozen Production Train the Trainer Qualification Level 4 HACCP Qualification Skills: logical Problem Solving And Decision Making Proactive Benefits: Group Life Assurance Laptop Paid Holidays Parking competitive salary