Ethical Compliance Lead

Ethical Compliance Lead

We are working with a leading organisation in the food and drink manufacturing industry to recruit a dedicated and experienced Ethical Compliance Lead. This is a critical role focused on maintaining the highest ethical standards across a complex, global supply chain—ensuring compliance with international frameworks and retailer requirements while aligning with commercial objectives.

This opportunity suits a professional with a strong technical background in food manufacturing and a proven track record in ethical compliance, supplier engagement, and responsible sourcing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the ethical compliance strategy for the business, embedding standards such as ETI Base Code, SEDEX, UK retailer codes of practice, and Stronger Together across all supply chain activities.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments of global suppliers to identify high-risk regions, products, or practices, and implement clear action plans.
• Deliver and oversee ethical audits of suppliers and internal operations, with full responsibility for reporting, follow-up, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure that manufacturing and operational sites are fully aligned with ethical standards, including managing internal SEDEX processes and audits.
• Provide expert training, support, and governance to teams across technical, procurement, and operational departments.
• Monitor and report on compliance performance to senior leadership and external stakeholders.

You Might Be Great Fit If You Have:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in ethical trade, compliance, or responsible sourcing within the food and drink manufacturing industry.
• 10+ years’ experience in the wider food industry, with strong cross-functional understanding (technical, procurement, operations).
• Degree in Food Science, Supply Chain Management, Sustainability, or a related field.
• Experience working with major UK retailers and their compliance requirements.
• Skilled in ethical auditing, supplier development, and stakeholder communication.
• Resilient, detail-focused, and commercially aware, with the ability to manage complex challenges confidently.

Preferred System Knowledge:

• Microsoft Office Suite
• SAP or similar ERP systems
• Paperless manufacturing systems
• Power BI (advantageous)