Technical Manager

Ready to take the lead in a key technical role within the Fresh Produce industry? We are looking for a Technical Manager to own the technical function across a range of products and key accounts, driving quality, compliance, and customer relationships while supporting growth across the business. This is a high-impact role for an experienced technical professional who can balance hands-on technical rigour with commercial awareness and strong leadership. Working closely with customers, suppliers, growers, and internal teams, you will protect product quality and safety, lead innovation projects, and act as a trusted technical partner to major retail and market customers. Role Overview As Technical Manager, you will manage technical standards across specified products and accounts, ensuring sourcing quality and customer requirements are consistently met. You will lead on audits and compliance, drive technical and varietal innovation, manage supplier relationships, and develop a small team, deputising for the senior technical lead when required. Technical Manager Key Responsibilities Build strong, trust-based relationships with customers and ensure their standards are met Maintain customer-specific audits and regulatory compliance across production and grower level Manage customer portals, product specifications, and quality improvement plans Identify and project manage technical innovation, including varietal, packaging, and new technology Work closely with commercial teams to support new and existing product development Lead resolution of rejections and complaints, ensuring timely feedback and corrective actions Conduct supplier visits and complete technical reports within agreed timescales Support due diligence, risk assessments, and ethical and sustainability compliance Take responsibility for artwork and design development across product launches Manage, appraise, and develop direct reports, providing leadership and supportTechnical Manager Key Requirements Proven technical management experience within Fresh Produce, FMCG, or food manufacturing Strong understanding of food safety, quality systems, and audit standards Knowledge of organic requirements and legislation Commercial awareness with strong negotiation skills A strategic leader who embraces change and innovates Excellent communication and interpersonal skills at all levels, internally and externally Able to interpret customer requirements and make informed decisions at pace Confident managing and developing a team Competent in Microsoft Office and technical systemsThis is an excellent opportunity to take ownership of a varied technical portfolio in a values-led business where quality, innovation, and ethical sourcing sit at the heart of everything. You will shape standards, lead projects, and make a genuine impact across the supply chain. This is a UK-based position, and applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. Evidence of this right will be requested prior to interview where applicable