At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead quality and compliance initiatives, manage audits, and coach a team of 7.
- Company: Join Arla, a global leader in the dairy industry with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Weekend cover required occasionally; great chance to shape the future of dairy.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food safety and quality in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 3-5 years experience in a similar role and HACCP Level 3 certification required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are currently recruiting for a QEHS Team Leader at our Aylesbury Dairy, our flagship site in the UK producing over 1.3 million bottles of milk a day. Reporting directly to the Senior QEHS Manager, you will be leading internal and external audits, liaising closely with external retailer and food service customers and coaching others to drive quality improvements across the site. You will also have direct management responsibility for a team of 7 colleagues.
How will you make an impact?
- Ensures quality, food safety, and legal compliance by implementing Arla standards, customer requirements, and industry regulations across the site.
- You will champion quality, health and safety standards.
- You will manage a team of 7 facilities Hygiene Operatives and work as the Team Leader for both HACCP and TACCP on site.
- You will provide technical expertise and quality support, acting as a trusted advisor to help solve problems, manage risks, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Uses data and digital tools to monitor performance, maintain management systems and databases, generate reports, and support informed decision-making.
- Key attendee on site performance meetings and data providing.
- Leads and supports audits, customer interactions, coaching activities, and quality-related projects to enhance compliance, capability, and customer satisfaction, close out of complaints and all customer audits.
- Maintains in full the quality management system working with group protocols and other Arla sites to ensure the highest standard is maintained at all times.
- Delivers training on quality to all site colleagues as part of our business planning sessions.
- You will drive business plan projects relating to quality and food safety reporting to all key stakeholders.
What will you need to succeed?
- You will need a minimum of 3-5 years experience within a similar role as well as being HACCP Level 3 certified.
- Internal auditor training is essential as well as knowledge of BRCGS V9, Ethical audits and knowledge of major retailer standards.
- HACCP level 4 and/or lead auditor training would be preferred but not essential.
- Dairy industry experience would be preferred but not essential.
- Previous experience of working with UK retailers is also essential.
Please note the role will also require some weekend cover up to 2 weekends a year plus occasional out of hours auditing.
Want to apply? Please apply using the link or reach out to Jess Thwaite, Talent Partner jesth@arlafoods.com. The closing date for this position is Tuesday 28th July 2026.
Shape the Future of Dairy Arla is a global leader in the dairy industry, committed to enabling good food choices that make life better, providing people with natural, sustainable nourishment, while taking care at every step to ensure Arla is a choice they can feel good about. If you are looking to shape the future with an ambitious global cooperative that truly cares about your growth, where everyone feels valued and empowered, and collaboration is the core of culture, Arla is a choice you can feel good about.
QEHS Team Leader (Quality and Compliance) - Aylesbury Dairy employer: Arla
Arla Lockerbie is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment, where continuous improvement and operational excellence are at the forefront. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. With a commitment to sustainability and a culture that values every team member, Arla is dedicated to helping you thrive in your career while shaping the future of dairy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land QEHS Team Leader (Quality and Compliance) - Aylesbury Dairy
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Arla.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Arla!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Arla, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at Arla, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace QEHS Team Leader (Quality and Compliance) - Aylesbury Dairy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Arla, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Arla.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Arla. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Arla. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arla
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Arla’s mission.
