JMW Farms | Technical Department Lead

Position Summary: The Technical Department Lead will be responsible for managing and overseeing the technical function and team, ensuring compliance with regulatory, environmental, and operational standards across all business areas in Ireland and Great Britain. This role will focus on maintaining high standards of internal and external audits, ensuring adherence to government and industry requirements, and leading improvements in health, safety, and environmental practices. Key Responsibilities: Leadership: Oversee the overall technical function and team. Provide strategic direction and support for technical operations. Technical Management: Oversee all technical tasks for operations in Ireland and Great Britain. Ensure compliance with external audits, meeting the standards of Red Tractor, Bord Bia, government regulations, and retailer requirements. Enhance internal auditing systems as part of batch payments and performance tracking. Compliance and Environmental Standards: Ensure site compliance with environmental regulations and site-specific operating conditions as outlined by the Environmental Agency (EA) and government bodies. Oversee and manage site variation submissions where required. Develop and implement an internal audit programme to align with EA site-specific conditions and industry best practices. Welfare Compliance: Supervise the Welfare Compliance Officers to ensure adherence to all welfare standards. Oversee compliance with annual slurry map submissions and soil sampling requirements. Internal Audits: Establish and maintain a comprehensive internal audit programme covering all aspects of the business. Address gaps identified in audits and lead corrective action plans to ensure continuous improvement. Areas to audit include veterinary practices, transport division, feed mill operations, feed rations, farms, anaerobic digestion (AD) plants, maintenance workshops, construction teams, and human resources. Health and Safety: Lead the health and safety function to promote safe practices across all business operations. Oversee the training and compliance matrix, ensuring staff are trained in areas such as manual handling, COSHH, confined space work, forklift and equipment operation, slurry removal, and construction safety. Working Hours: The role requires flexibility to meet the needs of the business, typically involving 45 hours per week. Person Specification: A minimum of 3 years’ experience in technical operations or a related field. Proven track record in leading and managing a technical team. Strong understanding of technical systems and processes. Exceptional leadership and communication skills. Demonstrated ability to develop and implement technical strategies. Comprehensive knowledge of industry standards and best practices.