Whether it be Interim or Permanent, look no further! If you have previous experience in the Food and Drink manufacturing industry, we would love to speak with you. Our team connect people with incredible opportunities with innovative start-ups, household names and global brands - workplaces where you can make a real difference.
We're 100% dedicated to food and drink manufacturing; we know the pressures on your production lines, the seasonality, and the people that can genuinely make a difference. That's why we're trusted with 5⭐ Google reviews from clients and candidates who come back, refer us, and recommend us.
Teeside
£50000 per year
Permanent
North East, UK
c£60,000 per year
Permanent
Location: Teesside
Overview: We're working with a well-established and growing food manufacturer looking to appoint a Technical Manager to play a key role in leading the site's technical function.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a fast-paced manufacturing business where you'll be responsible for maintaining exceptional food safety, quality and compliance standards, while driving continuous improvement and supporting the ongoing success of the site.
Reporting into the Head of Technical, you'll lead the day-to-day technical operation, working closely with Production, NPD, Engineering, Commercial and Supply Chain to ensure products consistently meet customer, retailer and regulatory requirements. You'll play a key role in embedding a positive food safety culture while supporting the wider business in delivering operational excellence.
About You:
• An experienced Technical Manager, Quality Manager or Senior Technical professional with a strong background in food manufacturing, ideally within chilled, fresh food or food-to-go production.
• Proven experience managing Technical or Quality teams within a manufacturing environment, with the ability to coach, develop and motivate others.
• Strong knowledge of BRCGS Food Safety Standards, HACCP, food legislation, retailer standards and customer requirements.
• Experienced in leading customer, retailer and third-party audits, managing non-conformances and implementing effective corrective and preventative actions.
• An excellent communicator with the confidence to build strong relationships across all areas of the business and with external customers.
• Passionate about food safety, quality and continuous improvement, with a proactive, solutions-focused approach.
What will you be doing?
• Leading the day-to-day Technical function, ensuring all products are manufactured safely, legally and to the highest quality standards.
• Supporting the Head of Technical in maintaining and continuously improving the site's Quality Management System (QMS) and food safety management systems.
• Ensuring compliance with BRCGS, retailer standards, food legislation and customer requirements across the site.
• Leading internal, customer, retailer and third-party audits, ensuring corrective and preventative actions are implemented effectively.
• Monitoring technical KPIs, customer complaints, microbiological results and audit outcomes to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Managing HACCP, traceability, supplier approval, product specifications, risk assessments and technical documentation.
• Leading, coaching and developing the Technical and Quality teams, promoting a strong food safety culture throughout the business.
• Working collaboratively with Operations, NPD, Engineering, Procurement and Commercial teams to support product launches, process improvements and wider business objectives.
• Investigating technical issues, carrying out root cause analysis and implementing robust corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
What can they offer you?
• The opportunity to join a successful and growing food manufacturing business with an excellent reputation for quality.
• A key leadership role where you'll have genuine influence over food safety, quality and continuous improvement.
• The chance to work closely with major retail customers while developing your career within a progressive and supportive business.
• A collaborative environment that values innovation, continuous improvement and people development.
• Excellent opportunities for future career progression within the wider technical leadership team.
We are seeking applications from talented Technical Managers, Quality Managers, Assistant Technical Managers, Senior Quality Managers, Technical Services Managers, QA Managers, Food Safety Managers and Senior Technical professionals who live within Stockton-on-Tees, Darlington, Redcar, Hartlepool, Northallerton, Thirsk, Durham, Sunderland, York, Newcastle upon Tyne and the surrounding areas.
How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting ref IC/TNT/3316, or call 0161 399 1575 / 07447 735175 for a confidential discussion.
True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, Engineering Jobs, Technical Jobs, NPD Jobs, Supply Chain Jobs and Commercial Jobs. We may hold your data in accordance with our privacy policy, available on our website.
We are only able to consider candidates who have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
North East, UK
c£75,000 per year
Permanent
Location: Teesside
Overview: An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head of Technical to join a well-established and growing food manufacturer, leading the technical function across a busy fresh food production site.
This is a strategic leadership role responsible for ensuring the consistent production of safe, legal, authentic and high-quality food products while driving continuous improvement across food safety, quality and compliance. You'll work closely with senior stakeholders across Operations, NPD, Commercial and Supply Chain to embed a strong food safety culture, maintain industry-leading standards and support the ongoing growth of the business.
If you're a passionate Technical leader who enjoys influencing at all levels, developing high-performing teams and delivering excellence in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, we'd love to hear from you.
About You:
• An experienced Head of Technical, Technical Manager or Senior Technical professional with a strong background in food manufacturing, ideally within chilled, fresh food or food-to-go production.
• Proven experience leading Technical or Quality functions, managing high-performing teams and driving food safety, quality and compliance across manufacturing operations.
• Excellent knowledge of BRCGS Food Safety Standards, HACCP, food legislation, retailer standards and customer requirements.
• Strong experience leading customer, third-party and regulatory audits, with the ability to manage technical risk and implement robust Quality Management Systems.
• A confident communicator with excellent stakeholder management skills, capable of influencing at all levels and building strong relationships with customers, suppliers and regulatory bodies.
• Commercially aware, solutions-focused and passionate about developing people while embedding a positive food safety and quality culture.
What will you be doing?
• Leading the Technical function, setting the strategic direction for food safety, quality, legality, authenticity and continuous improvement across the business.
• Maintaining and continually improving the site's Quality Management System (QMS), ensuring compliance with BRCGS, retailer standards, food legislation and customer requirements.
• Leading and developing the Technical team through coaching, mentoring, succession planning and continuous professional development.
• Acting as the senior technical contact for customers, certification bodies, regulatory authorities and external auditors while managing all technical relationships.
• Leading customer, retailer, third-party and regulatory audits, ensuring corrective actions are implemented effectively and continuous improvement opportunities are identified.
• Monitoring technical KPIs, customer complaints, audit outcomes, microbiological performance and quality metrics to drive operational improvements.
• Working collaboratively with Operations, NPD, Engineering, Procurement, Commercial and Supply Chain teams to support new product development, process improvements and business growth.
• Providing leadership during food safety incidents, product withdrawals and recalls, ensuring risks are managed effectively while protecting both consumers and the business.
What can they offer you?
• The opportunity to join a successful and growing food manufacturing business in a senior leadership position.
• A highly influential role where you will shape the company's technical strategy and drive a strong food safety and quality culture.
• The chance to work closely with major retail customers, certification bodies and senior leadership while supporting future business growth.
• A collaborative environment that genuinely values continuous improvement, innovation and people development.
• Excellent opportunities for career progression within a forward-thinking and ambitious business.
We are seeking applications from talented Head of Technical, Senior Technical Managers, Technical Managers, Group Technical Managers, Head of Quality, Quality Managers, Food Safety Managers, Technical Services Managers and Senior QA Managers who live within Stockton-on-Tees, Darlington, Redcar, Hartlepool, Northallerton, Thirsk, York, Durham, Sunderland, Newcastle upon Tyne and surrounding areas of the North East.
How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting ref IC/TNT/3315, or call 0161 399 1575 / 0744 7735 175 for a confidential discussion.
True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, Engineering Jobs, Technical Jobs, NPD Jobs, Supply Chain Jobs and Commercial Jobs. We may hold your data in accordance with our privacy policy, available on our website.
We are only able to consider candidates who have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
West Midlands
c£45,000 per year
Permanent
Location: West Midlands
Overview: A leading FMCG manufacturer is looking for an experienced Regional HSE Advisor to support and drive the Health, Safety and Environmental agenda across three UK manufacturing sites. This is a fantastic opportunity for an HSE professional to make a real impact by embedding a strong safety culture, reducing risk and supporting continuous improvement across a growing manufacturing network.
Working as part of the wider European HSE function, this role will provide hands-on support to operational teams, ensuring legal compliance, promoting best practice and driving positive safety behaviours across the business.
About You:
• Previous experience working within a Health, Safety & Environment role within FMCG, manufacturing or a similar industrial environment
• Strong knowledge of UK Health & Safety legislation, risk assessments, incident investigations and compliance requirements
• NEBOSH General Certificate (NEBOSH Diploma preferred), with IOSH qualification and auditing experience advantageous
• Experience supporting HSE audits, safety improvement programmes and engaging with operational teams across a manufacturing environment
• A confident communicator with the ability to coach, influence and challenge stakeholders at all levels
What will you be doing?
• Supporting the delivery of the European HSE strategy across three UK manufacturing sites, ensuring compliance and continuous improvement
• Acting as a key HSE contact for site operations, providing practical guidance, coaching and support on health and safety matters
• Leading risk assessments, incident investigations, root cause analysis and corrective action plans to reduce workplace risk
• Delivering HSE workshops, safety briefings and engagement initiatives to promote a proactive safety culture
• Supporting internal and external audits, Emergency Response Teams, statutory compliance activities and ongoing HSE improvement projects
What can they offer you?
• The opportunity to join a global FMCG manufacturer with European exposure
• A varied multi-site role with the ability to influence and deliver meaningful HSE improvements
• The opportunity to work closely with operational teams and senior stakeholders to develop a strong safety culture
• A supportive environment focused on continuous improvement, collaboration and employee development
• Plus other company benefits
We are seeking applications from talented Regional HSE Advisors, HSE Advisors, Health & Safety Advisors, SHE Advisors, HSE Coordinators, Health & Safety Officers, Environmental Health & Safety Advisors, HSE Specialists and HSE Managers who have experience within FMCG, food manufacturing, manufacturing or industrial environments who live within Burton upon Trent, Birmingham, Coventry or the West Midlands.
How to Apply:
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting reference IC/TNT/3215 or call 0161 399 1575 / 0744 7735 175 for a confidential discussion.
True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, food manufacturing Engineering jobs, food manufacturing Technical jobs, food manufacturing NPD jobs, food manufacturing Supply Chain jobs and food manufacturing Commercial jobs. We may hold your data, as per our privacy policy detailed on our website.
We are only able to consider candidates who have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
London
£65,000 - £75,000 per annum
Permanent
Location: London
Overview: A leading and growing food manufacturer is seeking an experienced Technical Manager to lead and develop their site technical function. This is a key leadership role, responsible for driving food safety, quality standards, BRC compliance and continuous improvement across the business.
This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on Technical Manager who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and is passionate about developing strong food safety cultures while supporting future business growth.
About You:
• Experienced Technical Manager / Senior Technical professional with a strong background within food manufacturing, ideally chilled food production.
• As Technical Manger, you will have experience within a Technical or Quality Assurance function, with proven experience managing teams and technical operations.
• Degree level qualification in Food Science or a related subject, with Food Safety Level 3, HACCP Level 3 and Internal Auditor training essential.
• Strong knowledge of BRC Global Food Safety Standards, retailer requirements, customer audits and managing technical compliance.
• Excellent communicator with the ability to influence across all levels of the business, drive improvements and embed a strong food safety culture.
What will you be doing?
• Leading the Technical Department, including QA, Quality Management, Process and Hygiene functions, ensuring all products meet safety, quality and legal requirements.
• Managing and improving the site’s food safety management systems, including HACCP, BRC compliance, audits, root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives.
• As Technical Manager, you will be driving the site’s Quality KPIs, identifying opportunities for improvement and working collaboratively with wider teams to improve performance year on year.
• Leading internal, customer and third-party audits, managing non-conformances and ensuring effective corrective and preventative actions are implemented.
• Supporting product development and launches, ensuring products meet customer specifications, regulatory requirements and site standards.
What can they offer you?
• The opportunity to join a successful and growing food manufacturing business in a key leadership position.
• A role with significant influence, allowing you to shape technical strategy and develop a strong food safety culture across the site.
• The chance to work with major customers and stakeholders while contributing to continuous improvement initiatives across the wider European business.
• A supportive environment with opportunities for career development and progression.
• The opportunity to be part of a business committed to maintaining high standards across food safety, quality and operational excellence.
We are seeking applications from talented Technical Managers, Senior Technical Managers, Quality Managers, Technical Quality Managers, Head of Technical, Technical Services Managers, QA Managers and Food Safety Managers who live within London and surrounding areas.
How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting ref IC/TNT/3178. or call 0161 399 1575 / 0744 7735 175 for a confidential discussion.
True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, food manufacturing Engineering jobs, food manufacturing Technical jobs, food manufacturing NPD jobs, food manufacturing Supply Chain jobs and food manufacturing Commercial jobs. We may hold your data, as per our privacy policy detailed on our website.
We are only able to consider candidates who have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
Greater Manchester
£35,000 per year
Permanent
Location: Greater Manchester
Overview: Our client is a well-established food manufacturer with an excellent reputation for product innovation and quality. Due to continued growth and an exciting pipeline of new product development projects, they are looking to strengthen their Development Team with the appointment of a Product Developer.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with previous NPD experience to take ownership of exciting development projects, working closely with customers and internal teams to bring innovative products from concept through to successful launch.
Key Responsibilities:
Qualifications and Experience:
Benefits:
We are seeking applications from talented Product Developers, Development Technologists, NPD Technologists, Product Development Technologists, Food Technologists, and Process Technologists who live within Greater Manchester, Oldham, Bolton, Rochdale, Bury, Blackburn, Stockport, Wigan, Cheshire and surrounding areas.
How to Apply:
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting re DW/TNT/3216 or phone 0161 399 1575 or 07830 944183 for a confidential discussion.
True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across Operations/Engineering/Technical/NPD/Supply Chain and Commercial. We may hold your data, as per our privacy policy detailed on our website.
We are only able to consider candidates who have the full legal right to work in the UK Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
Lancashire
£55,000 per year + enhanced pension, life assurance and cycle to work scheme
Permanent
Location: Lancashire
Overview: This is a rare opportunity to join this business within this department. You will manage the quality function within the business working on manufacturing, quality and operational standards.
About You:
What will you be doing?
What can they offer you?
This is a great opportunity to work for a company that value their people and support you in the business. You will also receive a salary from c£45,000 up to £55,000, dependent on your experience.
We are seeking applications from talented Assistant Technical Managers, Senior QA Managers, Quality Managers, Quality Leads, Senior Technical Managers, Food Safety Managers, Compliance Managers, who live within Southport, Preston, Garstang, Lancaster, Lytham, Blackpool, Darwen, Blackburn, Chorley or Bolton.
How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting re CH/TNT/3285 or call 0161 399 1575 / 07899 686690 or a confidential discussion.
True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, food manufacturing Engineering jobs, food manufacturing Technical jobs, food manufacturing NPD jobs, food manufacturing Supply Chain jobs and food manufacturing Commercial jobs. We may hold your data, as per our privacy policy detailed on our website.
We are only able to consider candidates who have the legal right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
True North Talent are specialists in the food and drink manufacturing industry, with a dedicated and experienced team of experts delivering interim and permanent recruitment solutions to organisations from independent start-ups, SMEs to global food companies. From leveraging our extensive network of experienced professionals to connect you with your ideal interim hire to carrying out an exclusive search for your next director level or executive hire, we’ve got you covered.
With our wealth of knowledge in the sector and our relationships with some of the best in the industry, please get in touch to find out more about how we can connect you with your perfect candidate and take your business to the next level.
True North Talent was born from a shared passion for building strong relationships and delivering outstanding talent solutions for the food and drink manufacturing industry. Our mission is simple: to help individuals and businesses realise their true potential.
We know that finding the right talent goes beyond just matching the right skills and experience and understand that, when building successful teams and careers, one size doesn't fit all. That's why our consultancy solutions are bespoke and tailored to your unique needs and specific goals.
Above all, it’s our unwavering commitment that sets our consultancy apart. We are dedicated to your success and we always go the extra mile to deliver exceptional results.
qualified professionals in our network
placements across the whole food and drinks industry
of our candidates still in their role after 6 months.
average turnaround time to have an interim on site
We’re not generalists. We know the Food & Drink industry inside & out. That means less time wasted, better cultural fit and a stronger, more motivated workforce. Our network is extensive, our process is streamlined and our results speak for themselves.
View all SpecialismsOperations teams drive production efficiency, safety, and quality. It includes planning production lines, managing supply chains, and improving factory operations. Teams hit performance targets, control costs, ensure food safety compliance, and meet retailer demands. Skilled professionals keep production smooth and adapt to market changes. We help companies recruit talent for middle and senior management Operations and Manufacturing roles.
02
Supply Chain & Procurement
The Supply Chain and Procurement sector in food and drink is vital for seamless movement of materials and goods. It involves sourcing, purchasing, managing suppliers, forecasting demand, and optimizing logistics. Professionals in this field ensure quality, cost, and speed, playing a strategic role in operations, risk management, and sustainability. We help companies recruit top talent for roles like Supply Chain Directors and Procurement Managers.
03
Engineering/Projects
Engineering and Projects in the food industry are vital for production. Responsibilities include equipment maintenance, plant reliability, capital projects, and new technologies to boost efficiency. Professionals ensure operations are competitive, compliant, and scalable, optimising output and meeting standards. We assist companies in recruiting top talent for roles like Engineering Managers and Project Managers.
04
NPD/R&D
NPD and R&D in the food and drink industry drive innovation, creating new products and enhancing existing ones to meet consumer preferences and market trends. These teams blend creativity with technical skills across concept generation, recipe formulation, sensory testing, and packaging development. They help businesses remain competitive by launching viable products efficiently and compliantly, addressing trends like health, sustainability, and convenience while ensuring taste and quality. We assist companies in recruiting top talent for NPD and R&D roles.
05
Technical/Quality
Technical and Quality sectors in food and drink ensure products meet safety and quality standards. They maintain compliance with legislation, oversee quality assurance, and manage audits. Professionals collaborate with Production, NPD, and Supply Chain to uphold product integrity. We help companies recruit for Technical and Quality roles, including Directors, Managers, and Compliance experts.
06
Health and Safety & Environment
HSE sectors in the food and drink industry are vital for safeguarding people and the planet. They ensure a safe work environment, compliance with legislation, and promote risk awareness. HSE professionals manage sustainability initiatives like waste reduction and energy efficiency. Strong HSE leadership is crucial for employee protection and reducing environmental impact. We assist companies in recruiting for HSE roles, including Health & Safety Managers and HSE Directors.
07
Commercial & Marketing
Commercial and Marketing sectors in the food and drink industry drive growth and brand awareness. Commercial teams focus on revenue through account management, pricing, and sales planning. Marketing teams position products in a competitive market by developing campaigns and managing brand identity. Together, they translate trends into strategies, aiding product launches and market expansion. We help companies find top talent for roles like Commercial Managers, Marketing Managers, and more.
08
HR
The food and drink industry has a diverse workforce from entry-level to specialised roles. HR must navigate regulatory compliance, including food safety and hygiene standards. Recruitment challenges include seasonal staffing and continuous training. HR teams also address sustainability and ethical sourcing, influencing recruitment strategies. The growth of food tech and health-conscious preferences demands new skills, requiring HR to adapt talent acquisition and development.
Our priority is to build long lasting relationships built on trust.
These are a few of our clients who have trusted us with their recruitment and who we love working with.
See what our clients and candidates have to say about working with us:
View more testimonialsInterim Hygiene Manager
1/20
Head of Technical
1/20
Engineering Manager
1/20
Interim Production Manager
1/20
Materials Planner
1/20
Interim HR Advisor
1/20
Senior Process Technologist
1/20
Associate Health & Safety Manager
1/20
Manufacturing Shift Leader
1/20
Interim Project Manager
1/20
Interim NPD Manager
1/20
Head of NPD
1/20
Hygiene Manager
1/20
Technical Director
1/20
HR Manager
1/20
Shift Manager
1/20
Production Manager
1/20
Interim Engineering Manager
1/20
Technical Services Lead
1/20
General Manager
1/20
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Explore our latest market insights on all things food and drink manufacturing.
I’m a sucker for a good discount code, and I’ve seen numerous influencers posting codes lately about HelloFresh and Gousto so I thought I’d give them a try. Although recipe boxes have been around awhile now, I’m totally new to trying them. There’s a few pros and cons I’ve noticed so far.
In the Food and Drink manufacturing industry, we're no strangers to disruption. From Brexit to Covid, global conflicts to raw material shortages, supply chains have taken a beating over the last few years. And while those headlines have dominated, there's a quieter, more dangerous challenge threatening the industry's long term stability: the talent shortage. Yes, a late shipment can throw off your production line. But a missing team leader, technical manager, or site director? That can derail your entire operation.
There was an article this week in the Food Manufacture by Bethan Grylls, titled "Reading food and drink labels with sight loss" - and how food manufacturing companies can make their packaging more inclusive and accessible for those with visual impairments. It is a really insightful article exploring the world of a VIP (Visually Impaired Person) and certainly made me think of scenarios I hadn't thought of before - how are VIPs expected to navigate their way around a supermarket and read food and drink labels. As a coeliac, I wear my glasses on my head in the supermarket as I am constantly trying to read the ever decreasing font size on food labelling to ensure the product I buy is safe for me! I cannot imagine how challenging it must be for VIPs. It will be interesting to see how the technologies currently available and those yet to be invented, can help VIPs and those of us whose eyesight is likely to deteriorate further.
I’m a sucker for a good discount code, and I’ve seen numerous influencers posting codes lately about HelloFresh and Gousto so I thought I’d give them a try. Although recipe boxes have been around awhile now, I’m totally new to trying them. There’s a few pros and cons I’ve noticed so far.
In the Food and Drink manufacturing industry, we're no strangers to disruption. From Brexit to Covid, global conflicts to raw material shortages, supply chains have taken a beating over the last few years. And while those headlines have dominated, there's a quieter, more dangerous challenge threatening the industry's long term stability: the talent shortage. Yes, a late shipment can throw off your production line. But a missing team leader, technical manager, or site director? That can derail your entire operation.
There was an article this week in the Food Manufacture by Bethan Grylls, titled "Reading food and drink labels with sight loss" - and how food manufacturing companies can make their packaging more inclusive and accessible for those with visual impairments. It is a really insightful article exploring the world of a VIP (Visually Impaired Person) and certainly made me think of scenarios I hadn't thought of before - how are VIPs expected to navigate their way around a supermarket and read food and drink labels. As a coeliac, I wear my glasses on my head in the supermarket as I am constantly trying to read the ever decreasing font size on food labelling to ensure the product I buy is safe for me! I cannot imagine how challenging it must be for VIPs. It will be interesting to see how the technologies currently available and those yet to be invented, can help VIPs and those of us whose eyesight is likely to deteriorate further.
