Since 2002, we’ve been the trusted partner for global food brands, helping them make a lasting impression on today’s food lovers.

As innovators, we specialise in bespoke plant-led ingredients and menu solutions that bring bold, creative flavours to the table. From major foodservice brands to food manufacturers and recipe kit providers, we collaborate to inspire, innovate, and deliver high-quality ingredients for on-trend dishes.

We believe that great ideas come from all areas of the business. That’s why we foster a collaborative, open, and diverse environment for both our teams and our customers. We treat everyone with respect and integrity, creating an inspiring environment where we can all work, learn, and grow together.

Joining Natural Innovations is also joining a community that nurtures its workforce, with regular food events and staff recognition. We strive to ensure our colleagues are rewarded for their dedication and hard work, while working together to produce products to a high standard.

Job Purpose:

To manage the Technical team and ensure that the company’s products conform to legal and customer requirements. To maintain the Quality Manual and ensure the Hygiene Standards required are being achieved. To continually improve food safety and technical performance.

Key Responsibilities:

· To be responsible for the development and implementation of the HACCP system across the business

· To lead and advise the HACCP team and carry out HACCP meetings to ensure all HACCP requirements are fulfilled. This will be done in conjunction with the Head of Technical

· To manage and appraise the Technical and Hygiene team (QA Manager, Hygiene Supervisors & QA’s)

· To co-ordinate the day to day activities of the Technical team with the QA Manager

· To ensure that all requirements of the BRC standard are met both within the QA department and within the factory. To ensure that the all customer requirements are met.

· To ensure that the site is complying with all Food Safety legislation and GMP, ensuring that we are producing a safe product by having all the applicable systems in place and operated correctly

· To continuously review and update the Quality Manual and Quality Systems to ensure the company is striving for improvement.

· To oversee the Hygiene team cleaning standards to ensure that the factory is cleaned to an acceptable standard and demonstrate this via microbiological testing and finished standards audits.

· To manage the technical budget with the Head of Technical and provide weekly technical KPI’s

· To manage, assist and build strong relationships with all customers to ensure that all there Technical requirements are fulfilled, with regards to visits, audits and specifications

· To ensure that Natural Innovations is kept up to speed with new legislation and assists the TSO and EHO, during visits and investigations

·To support the Technical Services Manager with Supplier Assurance, Customer Specifications & TACCP Plans as and when required.

· Extensive experience working in a technical role is essential.

· Previous experience of working in the food industry is essential.

· Previous experience of working within Produce is desirable.

· Proven experience with mentoring and developing individuals and teams is essential.

· Proven audit experience with announced and unannounced audits.

· Skilled in microbiological management of high care and high risk areas and the interpretation of microbiological product results. Ensuring micro results are investigated and trended. Driving down any adverse micro trends including Listeria.

· Management of allergens and gluten free systems

· Gap analysis of new audit standards to ensure the QMS is compliant with any new customer requirements

BENEFITS

·A competitive salary

·A supportive management team with an open door policy

·8% contributory pension (5% contributed by you)

·28 days holiday (increasing by 1 day a year to a maximum of 5)

·Life assurance up to 3x salary

·Extra holiday days on 5, 10, 15, and 20 years of service

·Access to an Employee Assistance Programme

·Access to a discounts platform offering discounts at many high street stores

·Membership to The Company Shop based in Long Eaton

·Regular team lunches, Christmas hampers and team building events

·Opportunities to develop by taking part in recognised courses

·Opportunities to progress with a promote from within attitude

·Close to good transport links (bus and tram) with car parking available on site

Our core values

Innovative partners: Our partnerships are built on a shared passion for innovation, exceptional quality products and an agile and responsive approach to business. We understand what our customers need, and we deliver it.

Quality commitment: We’re dedicated to delivering exceptional quality in everything we produce. That means meticulous attention to detail and incredibly high standards. From sourcing raw ingredients to maintaining rigorous food safety and technical standards, our partners can always count on our unwavering quality, consistency, and reliability.

Inclusivity matters: Great ideas come from all areas of our business. That’s why we work collaboratively, fostering open, diverse and inclusive spaces for both employees and customers. By treating everyone with respect and integrity, we create an inspiring environment for us all to work, learn, and grow.

Planetary care: Our commitment is to prioritise the health of the planet and employ sustainable practices that protect and restore it. Through responsible sourcing, ecofriendly operations and innovative solutions we strive to minimise our footprint and ensure a positive impact for future generations.