In the heart of rural Sussex lies Bolney Wine Estate, one of England’s oldest and most beautiful vineyards.
Proud to have been pioneers of English Wine, we have gone on to create award-winning still and sparkling wines on our 34-acre Sussex vineyard.
Established in 1972 by pioneers Janet and Rodney Pratt, Bolney Wine Estate in West Sussex was one of the first, and remains one of the most beautiful, English wine estates. Guided by nature – the mild climate and the sandstone soil – they discovered the best varieties of grapes to grow in their ecosystem.
Today, the expert team at Bolney produces award-winning still and sparkling wines from our famous Pinot Noir and Estate Bacchus to our classic sparkling Bolney Bubbly and Blanc de Blancs. Bolney has become synonymous with quality wine in a contemporary style.
The Role
We are looking for a Lab Compliance Coordinator to work alongside our winery and production teams, as well as external departments, to oversee day-to-day operations and ensure compliance with regulatory and technical standards.
The Lab Compliance Coordinator will develop and implement compliance programs, conduct internal audits, and provide training to maintain the accuracy and efficiency of analytical testing, quality control, and adherence to industry standards. This role is crucial in upholding our reputation and ensuring product quality and safety.
Reporting directly to the Winery and Operations Manager, this position is contracted for 4 days a week.
Responsibilities
* Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to all relevant regulations and standards in the winemaking industry.
* Policy Development: Create and enforce internal policies to maintain regulatory compliance including but not limited to HACCP, COSHH and Food Safety.
* Audits and Inspections: Conduct regular audits and inspections to identify and resolve compliance issues.
* Training: Educate employees on compliance matters and internal policies.
* Risk Management: Identify compliance risks and develop mitigation strategies.
* Reporting: Prepare and submit reports for audits and KPI reporting for food safety metrics.
* Collaboration: Work with other departments to integrate compliance across operations.
* Laboratory Operations: During the busiest times, oversee day-to-day lab activities, ensuring accurate and timely analysis of wine samples.
* Quality Control: Implement quality control procedures, conduct equipment calibrations, and resolve performance issues.
* Staff Management: Train and mentor harvest interns and staff, providing feedback and oversight.
* Data Management: Record and analyse lab test results, ensuring accurate data entry and reporting into Innovint software.
* Research and Development: Recommend new tests and technologies to enhance quality control.
* Safety and Compliance: Maintain a safe lab environment and stay updated on industry regulations.
* Sustainability: Manage sustainability practices for the winery and production facilities.
* Winery Administration: Support various administrative tasks related to winery operations and client management.
Experience / Skills
* Food Manufacturing experience ideal
* Strong understanding of HACCP, COSHH and Food Safety
* Strong winemaking knowledge
* Background in Lab analysis
* Forklift licence preferred or full training will be provided
* Full rights to work in the UK
* Full, clean driving licence and own transport essential due to rural location
* IT skills including Microsoft Office
* Enthusiasm to further develop your understanding about the whole winemaking process with particular focus on the production of sparkling wines
* Numerate and literate – confident in ability to understand what is required and record key data
* Very strong attention to detail with internal motivation for accuracy, efficiency and cleanliness
* Thrives in a compliant, organised, hygienic, quality and process driven environment
* Ability to build trusting working relationships across the wider business
* Problem solver with good use of initiative
* Self-motivated and able to work within a team and independently
* Looks to proactively develop skills and expertise and apply in every detail
* Be willing to work weekends and evenings when required
* A flexible approach to both working hours and duties during critical times
We welcome applications from candidates who do not 100% meet the role requirements.
Working Environment
32 hours Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 7.30 to 4.00 (30 minutes for lunch) – with additional hours as required during harvest and bottling season.
Work hours are flexible within standard work hours.
Company Benefits
* 25 days holiday + 1 day off for birthday + public holidays
* Additional Company Pension Contributions
* Private Health Cover
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Life Assurance – 4 x basic salary
* Income Protection Insurance
* Group Accident Insurance
* Company Maternity Pay – 13 weeks at full pay
* Paternity Pay – 2 weeks at full pay
* Generous staff discount
To apply, please email careers@fxcbrands.com