At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the technical team and improve product quality in a fast-paced food environment.
- Company: A high-growth food business focused on innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive contract rate and opportunity to make a significant impact.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with a focus on excellence and growth.
- Why this job: Drive quality improvements and lead a passionate team during a transformative period.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in chilled food and technical leadership.
The predicted salary is between 59400 - 72600 £ per year.
A well‑established, high‑growth food business is seeking an experienced Interim Head of Technical to lead its technical and quality function through a period of transition and improvement. Reporting to the Operations Director, the role will involve stabilising the existing technical team, maintaining customer compliance, and conducting a comprehensive review of current systems and processes. The assignment includes delivering a short‑term stabilisation plan and developing a clear roadmap for improving product quality and consistency.
We’re looking for a proven technical leader with short shelf‑life food experience and a track record of driving quality improvement in fast‑moving, high‑care environments. You’ll bring rigour and empathy, able to quickly gain trust, provide clarity and deliver tangible change.
Key Priorities
- Interim leadership of the technical and quality team
- Ensuring compliance with all customer and audit standards
- Completing a detailed health check of technical systems and supplier management
- Identifying root causes of product performance issues and implementing corrective actions
- Developing a roadmap for technical and quality excellence
Interim Head of Technical - Chilled Food employer: Drayton
At Drayton, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored development programmes and the opportunity to lead innovative projects in a thriving ecommerce environment. With a hybrid work model based in London, we offer flexibility and a collaborative atmosphere that empowers our team to excel and make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of Technical - Chilled Food
✨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 Drayton.
✨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 Drayton!
✨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 Drayton, 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 Drayton, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Head of Technical - Chilled Food
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Drayton, 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 Drayton.
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 Drayton. 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 Drayton. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Drayton
✨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 Drayton’s mission.
