Quality Manager in Colchester

Technical & Quality Manager Location: Colchester Role: Technical & Quality Manager Salary: £35,000- £50,000 per annum Are you an experienced food manufacturing quality professional looking for your next opportunity? Do you have the technical knowledge and confidence to lead audits, manage food safety systems and maintain high standards across a manufacturing operation? Nolan Recruitment is working with an established food manufacturing business in Colchester to recruit a Technical & Quality Manager. This is a hands-on management role offering the opportunity to take ownership of technical and quality systems, support a dedicated team and drive continuous improvement across the business. The role Reporting to the Operations Manager, you will be responsible for maintaining food safety, product quality and regulatory compliance, working closely with Production, Operations and NPD. Your key responsibilities will include: * Managing BRC standards, maintaining HACCP systems and leading external audits. * Ensuring compliance with relevant food safety, Kosher and Halal requirements. * Managing supplier approval, raw material risk assessments and product specifications. * Overseeing factory quality control checks, sampling, testing and product release. * Managing customer complaints, supplier issues and non-conformances through to resolution. * Maintaining traceability, labelling, technical documentation and production records. * Supervising and supporting the Technical/Quality team, including training and development. * Supporting raw material intake and providing QC cover when required. * Maintaining COSHH documentation and relevant risk assessments. * Promoting a strong food safety culture and driving continuous improvement. What we are looking for The ideal candidate will have: * Experience in a Technical, Quality Assurance or Quality Management role within food manufacturing. * Level 3 HACCP and Food Hygiene Level 3 or above. * A recognised Food Safety qualification. * Knowledge of BRCGS and other relevant GFSI-recognised standards. * Experience leading internal and external audits. * An understanding of retailer requirements, technical specifications and supplier management. * Strong problem-solving, organisational and communication skills. * The confidence to make decisions, manage priorities and work with colleagues at all levels. * Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office. * Health & Safety knowledge and a relevant qualification would also be beneficial. Why apply? This is an opportunity to take ownership of a key function within an established food manufacturing business, where your expertise will contribute directly to product quality, food safety and customer confidence. If you are practical, technically minded and enjoy improving standards while supporting a wider team, we would like to hear from you. Apply today Interested in finding out more? Send your CV to Nolan Recruitment for consideration. If you would like to discuss the position before applying, get in touch for a confidential conversation about the role and your experience. We look forward to hearing from you