Vickerstock are proudly working in partnership with a well-established and rapidly growing food manufacturing business located in the Banbridge area to recruit a Technical Manager to lead all aspects of food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance within our operations.

This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior leadership position with full responsibility for day-to-day operations in a technical capacity, maintaining high standards and ensuring all products are produced safely, consistently and to specification.

What we have to offer?

• Highly competitive salary package
• Strategic leadership role with full operational ownership
• Opportunity to lead a business through a major site expansion and growth phase
• Autonomy to shape culture, systems and long-term success
• Collaborative and progressive senior leadership environment

About the Company:
Our client is a recognised name in the local food production industry, offering a diverse product portfolio that includes traditional bakery goods and health-focused prepared food ranges. With a move into a new, purpose-built production facility scheduled within the next 12 months, this is an ideal time to join a business investing heavily in its infrastructure, people, and future.

The Role - Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage the Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure compliance with BRC, HACCP, and customer standards.
• Lead and coordinate all internal, third-party, and customer audits, ensuring site readiness at all times.
• Maintain, develop, and implement HACCP plans, TACCP/VACCP, and ensure legal and customer due diligence is upheld.
• Manage all technical documentation, including specifications, traceability records, and risk assessments.
• Investigate and respond to customer complaints, implementing root cause analysis and corrective/preventative actions (CAPAs).
• Collaborate with NPD, production, and procurement teams to assess new products, raw materials, and suppliers.
• Deliver ongoing food safety and hygiene training to staff and promote a strong food safety culture across the site.
• Lead the technical team including QA/QC operatives, providing clear direction, coaching, and performance management.
• Monitor and analyse quality and food safety KPIs, reporting trends and initiating improvement projects where needed.
• Ensure all labelling, allergen, and nutritional information is accurate and compliant with relevant legislation.

Your essential ingredients:

• Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field.
• Proven experience in a similar Technical or Quality role within the food manufacturing industry.
• Strong knowledge of BRCGS, HACCP (Level 3 or above), and UK/EU food legislation.
• Experience managing audits, technical teams, and working cross-functionally.
• Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and organisational skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making capabilities.

Desirable Criteria (it would be great if you have these but don't worry if you don't!):

• Level 4 Food Safety qualification
• TACCP/VACCP and Allergen Management training
• Experience in bakery production environments
• Knowledge of retailer COPs (e.g., Hendersons, Musgrave, CO-OP)

Your next move
To learn more or to apply in confidence, contact Anna at Vickerstock on 028 9031 3720 or submit your CV via the link.