Assistant Technical Manager

Protea Recruitment is excited to partner with a leading manufacturer in the food industry to recruit an Assistant Technical Manager. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated and experienced professional to join a progressive and dynamic team. Based in Dungannon, the role supports the Technical Manager in ensuring compliance with food safety, quality standards, and regulatory requirements while driving excellence across the business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deputise for the Technical Manager, including leading customer and third-party audits and chairing relevant meetings when required.
• Proactively ensure the business is "audit-ready" at all times, collaborating with the Quality Manager and production teams to uphold high standards.
• Oversee and manage compliance with certified standards, including but not limited to TFMS, BRCGS, RSPO, Soil Association, and other retailer-specific requirements.
• Manage supplier non-conformances, implement corrective actions, and maintain the Supplier Approval and Monitoring Programme.
• Conduct internal audits and support preparations for external audits to ensure compliance with industry and retailer standards.
• Monitor and verify compliance with HACCP and food safety practices, driving continuous improvement initiatives across plant-wide Quality and HACCP systems.
• Provide technical support to quality and production teams, addressing quality and technical challenges effectively.
• Deliver training and support to staff on quality and technical matters, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Liaise with customers and suppliers on technical issues, ensuring prompt resolution and building strong working relationships.
• Undertake additional duties as directed by the Technical Manager or Director to meet evolving business needs.

Candidate Requirements:

• A degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience (minimum 3 years) in a technical or quality assurance role within the food manufacturing sector.
• Comprehensive knowledge of HACCP principles (certified to Level 3 minimum), food safety regulations, and quality management systems.
• Strong understanding of BRC standards and experience with retailer audits, ideally with major retailers such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, or The Co-Operative.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a logical and proactive approach to quality and technical challenges.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable Skills and Experience:

• Experience in high-risk, chilled, or frozen production environments.
• Level 4 HACCP qualification and Train the Trainer certification.

What We Offer:

• A competitive salary of £40,000 - £45,000, reflecting experience and skills.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• The chance to contribute to the success of a thriving, innovative business.

If you are passionate about maintaining and improving food safety and quality standards in a fast-paced environment, this role offers a brilliant opportunity to take the next step in your career. Apply today to join a company that values innovation, excellence, and teamwork.