At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Quality Assurance and ensure product integrity and compliance across the business.
- Company: Established UK-based business in a peaceful rural setting.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, staff discounts, and free parking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on product quality and sustainability while enjoying occasional international travel.
- Qualifications: Experience in technical management and strong understanding of UK and EU regulations.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and collaboration with senior leadership.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
Location: Baldock, Hertfordshire (office-based)
Salary: £45,000 (negotiable depending on experience)
Working Pattern: Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5:30pm (1-hour lunch)
This is an office-based role in a quiet, rural setting, with regular visits to a UK distribution site and occasional international travel to Asia (1-2 trips per year).
The Role
An established UK-based business is seeking an experienced Technical Manager to lead its Quality Assurance and Technical Compliance function. Reporting directly to the Operations Director, this role plays a critical part in ensuring product integrity, regulatory compliance, ethical sourcing, and sustainability standards across the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day operations of the Quality Assurance function across all product categories
- Drive quality standards throughout the product lifecycle, including implementation of APQP principles
- Manage Supplier Quality Assurance Systems (SQAS), including audits, monitoring, and continuous improvement
- Conduct technical reviews such as risk assessments, range reviews, and supplier evaluations
- Liaise with approved external testing laboratories to resolve technical and compliance issues
- Plan and oversee product inspections, including During Production Inspections (DUPRO) and Final Random Inspections (FRI)
- Maintain accurate product documentation and full traceability in line with regulatory requirements
- Act as the internal subject matter expert for product and legal compliance
- Monitor and interpret UK and EU regulatory changes, assessing impact and advising the business accordingly
- Ensure compliance with environmental and trade regulations
- Lead and support the company's environmental and sustainability initiatives
- Act as the main point of contact for regulatory bodies, certification schemes, and industry organisations
- Provide technical support to Product and Marketing teams during sourcing, NPD, and artwork approval
- Support the New Product Development process across multiple product categories
- Oversee ethical compliance for suppliers using recognised platforms such as Amfori and SEDEX
- Work with Customer Services to investigate product complaints, returns, and fault analysis
- Provide clear guidance to senior leadership and operational teams to ensure compliance obligations are understood and met
Skills & Experience Required
- Proven experience as a Technical Manager, Quality Manager, or Compliance Manager within a regulated environment
- Demonstrable experience managing full product compliance from concept through to market release
- Background working with retail goods (non-food) and consumer products
- Experience working with major retailers or highly regulated, compliance-driven organisations
- Strong understanding of UK and EU product legislation and regulatory frameworks
- Experience with supplier audits, factory inspections, and overseas sourcing, ideally including Asia
- Hands-on experience managing testing, certification, and technical documentation
- Knowledge of ethical compliance platforms such as Amfori and SEDEX
- Experience working with electrical or lighting products is advantageous but not essential
- Confident stakeholder manager, able to advise senior leaders and cross-functional teams
- Comfortable with international travel and regular UK site visits
Benefits
- Free on-site parking
- Staff discount scheme
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Office-based role in a quiet, rural environment
Technical Manager employer: Smart10 Ltd
Contact Detail:
Smart10 Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for a Technical Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK and EU product legislation. Be ready to discuss how you've managed compliance in past roles. We want you to show off your expertise and confidence when it comes to quality assurance and technical compliance.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research the company! Understand their values, products, and any recent news. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and demonstrate that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us. Let’s get you that Technical Manager position!
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Technical Manager role. Highlight your experience in Quality Assurance and Technical Compliance, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or achievements that align with our job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for us. Mention specific experiences that relate to the key responsibilities listed in the job description, and show your passion for quality and compliance.
Showcase Your Skills: We want to see your skills in action! Be sure to include examples of how you've managed product compliance and quality standards in previous roles. This will help us understand how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our company culture and values.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smart10 Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK and EU product legislation and regulatory frameworks. Be ready to discuss how you've managed compliance in previous roles, especially in regulated environments. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Technical Manager, you'll be leading teams and driving quality standards. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led Quality Assurance functions or managed supplier audits. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively with senior leadership and cross-functional teams.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions about specific technical processes like APQP principles, risk assessments, and product inspections. Brush up on these topics and think of scenarios where you’ve applied them. This will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Cultural Fit Matters
This role is in a quiet, rural setting, so be prepared to discuss how you would adapt to this environment. Show enthusiasm for the company’s commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, and be ready to share your thoughts on how you can contribute to these initiatives.