The Company Our client is a food manufacturing business in the Norwich area, they are going through a number of changes and are recruiting for a Head of Technical to help with challenges they have in that area. The Role This is an exciting time to join a business where you can make a difference. This role is not a holding role, there will be different elements of change both operationally and culturally so would suit someone wanting a challenge in their next role. The role of Head of Technical leads the technical function which includes Compliance, Food safety, Quality, and Hygiene. Responsibilities• Ensure strict conformance to all H&S procedures• To develop and implement effective management systems to ensure operational and technical integrity at all times• Develop and implement a site plan to deliver continuous improvement against quality, cost and technical KPIs and ensure that the site and suppliers maintain the standards required by all customers and relevant codes of practice/guideline• Ensure effective QMS in place that encompasses all aspects of food safety and quality to required internal and external standards• Review and develop the technical team to ensure they maintain acceptable standards of performance and behavior and are aware of their roles and accountabilities. Succession planning is very key• Lead and drive continued performance improvement within the Technical team against standards and targets ensuring every team member is equipped to deliver against all expectations• Ensure that site is legally and contractually compliant in all areas and to actively promote hygiene, health and safety, immediately halting any unsafe practices and taking appropriate action to remedy• Monitor the ongoing progress of the operation, liaising with production and other departments as necessary to predict and mitigate problem areas and develop solutions• Communicate, liaise and escalate issues with the Head of Operations and key customers and other departments wherever necessary• Ensure that the site achieves and maintains the targeted level of accreditation through customer/legal auditing processes The person Understanding of production environments in a medium to large manufacturing organisation and • Able to cope with the demands of high levels of flexibility and short lead times whilst maintaining conformance to specifications• Ability to read and follow instructions, used to quality focused operations• Experience of working in a chilled retail environment • Industry recognised Technical qualification at bachelor’s degree level or equivalent• Advanced HACCP• Demonstrable track record of delivering continuous improvement in technical and food safety standards• Experience of managing internal and external auditing processes and requirements• Excellent track record of managing teams; building capability, addressing any issues effectively and in compliance with legislative and company policies and procedures• Ability to clearly communicate and influence internally and externally at all levels of an organisation• Experience of working with a complex, demanding retail or similar customer base.• A high level of flexibility is required and the ability to problem solve in a fast-paced environment with sometimes conflicting needs and wants Salary Competitive salary depending on experience between £80,000 and £100,000 with car allowance, pension, health and bonus etc