At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage ambient product categories to ensure top-notch quality and supplier performance.
- Company: Join Waitrose, a leader in food quality and safety standards.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel opportunities and a focus on sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food quality while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Degree in food science or equivalent experience; 5 years in technical roles required.
The predicted salary is between 57000 - 84600 £ per year.
Impact the Future of Food Quality: Lead the charge in managing our ambient product categories and elevating supplier performance to uphold the renowned Waitrose standards for quality, safety, legality, and integrity.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage product and supplier performance to ensure compliance with Waitrose quality, safety, legality, and integrity, and all relevant Brand standards for higher complexity or larger categories.
- Deliver the Own Brand Product Plan for the category by supporting technical elements of all approved projects and project managing those assigned to technical.
- Operate in a collaborative matrix environment across Quality & Technical, Regulatory, Policy & Compliance, Product Innovation, CPG Trading, Marketing, Customer Services, Retail and Ethics & Sustainability to deliver shared KPIs.
Qualifications & Experience
- Degree in food science (or similar) or equivalent experience in technical roles within the Food & Grocery industry.
- HACCP Level 3 and Food Safety Level 3 training; Lead Assessor preferred.
- At least 5 years recent technical experience within the food or non‑food industry.
- Experience in supplier management and technical development.
- Passion for product and quality, with specialist training in allergens, microbiology, specification management, and product labelling legal requirements.
Contract & Compensation
- Salary: £57,000 – £84,600 per annum based on skills and experience.
- Contract type: Secondment/fixed‑term position until March 2027.
- Working pattern: 35 hours per week with hybrid working; up to 3 days in the office.
Location & Travel
- Bracknell Head Office, Doncastle Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG128YA. Expectation to travel to suppliers as required.
Additional Information
- Interviews will be held at the end of June / early July.
- Closing date: June 18, 2026.
- Some roles are subject to pre‑employment vetting, including DBS checks and financial probity checks if required.
Technical Manager in Bracknell employer: John Lewis plc
At Waitrose, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and excellence in the food industry. Our Bracknell Head Office provides a supportive environment where employees can thrive, with opportunities for professional growth and development, particularly in technical roles. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, we empower our team to make a meaningful impact on food safety and supplier performance, all while enjoying a competitive salary and flexible working arrangements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Manager in Bracknell
✨Join Food Science Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Technical Manager in Bracknell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at John Lewis plc, 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!
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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 John Lewis plc. Make it personal and compelling!
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How to prepare for a job interview at John Lewis plc
✨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.
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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!
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