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- Tasks: Lead technical and quality initiatives in a dynamic food production environment.
- Company: Join Virani Food Products, a family-owned leader in spices and pulse flours.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive team culture and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting growth phase while ensuring product integrity and compliance.
- Qualifications: Degree in a scientific field and relevant food industry experience required.
- Other info: Must be able to travel globally and have the right to work in the UK.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
You will provide Technical and Quality Leadership for the challenging product categories that we operate in. Over time you will become a Subject Matter Expert in our products. The Spice and Herb sector is considered high risk by many customers and requires that supply chain assurance and integrity are the main priorities. Pulse flours are an exciting and emerging category being used in many more applications. We have steadily built this business but are now gearing up for a higher level of growth.
You will apply your depth of experience and expertise in managing the technical agenda to ensure compliance with customer requirements, M&S A-list, regulatory and third-party standards, while driving the improvement and efficiency of technical systems. A true hands-on attitude is necessary to manage and support your team of 10. Reporting to a Director, you will be part of the Leadership Team.
Based in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, and operating from a purpose-built production facility and a second warehouse/office site, Virani Food Products Limited is a family-owned business employing 100 dedicated and professional staff. Founded on the market-leading Virani brand of gram flour we have become the supplier of choice for spices, seasonings and pulse flours to many leading food manufacturing companies servicing the highly demanding UK retail market. It's an exciting time to be joining us as we continue to scale up, take on new premises, that allow us to separate the activities of spices, herbs and seasonings from pulse flours, and explore new categories.
Responsibilities:
- To efficiently and pro-actively lead the technical aspects of stakeholder relationships through regular contact with raw material suppliers and customers to develop standards and compliance.
- To lead the continuous improvement ethos in respect of recognised, prescribed, and developing internal and external Technical, Quality, Environmental, Hygiene and Food Safety policies, systems, standards, procedures and working practices, to meet business, legal, stakeholders and certification standards’ requirements and expectations.
- To lead and manage the technical team to achieve business objectives.
- To lead audits from customers and third parties, and with our suppliers as required.
- To work closely with the Leadership Team to develop, improve and increase the efficiency and efficacy of systems and ways of working.
Qualifications:
- Degree (ideally in a scientific subject)
- Food manufacturing HACCP level 3 or 4
- VACCP/raw material risk assessment qualification
- Supplier Audit qualification
Experience:
- 5+ years in a technical leadership position in the food industry, with specific experience of handling supplier and customer technical information.
- High level of regulatory/compliance knowledge of allergen, contaminants and pesticides, preferably in herbs/spices/seasonings/ingredients.
- Experience of working with M&S supply chain and Codes of Practice.
Skills:
- Excellent attention to detail
- Fast paced working
- Creative thinking
- Excellent communication skills
- Systematic approach
- Excellent IT skills
Other requirements:
- Right to work in UK
- Ability to travel globally
Head of Technical employer: Virani Food Products Limited
Contact Detail:
Virani Food Products Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Technical
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technical standards and compliance requirements in the spice and herb sector. Understanding the nuances of these regulations will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the food manufacturing industry, especially those who have experience with M&S supply chain practices. Engaging with industry peers can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on leadership style and how you've successfully managed technical teams in the past. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your ability to drive continuous improvement and efficiency.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Virani Food Products Limited and their product lines thoroughly. Understanding their market position and recent developments will allow you to tailor your discussions and show genuine interest in contributing to their growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Technical
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in technical leadership within the food industry. Emphasise your knowledge of regulatory compliance, supplier audits, and any specific achievements related to spices, herbs, or pulse flours.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the food industry and detail how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Head of Technical role. Mention your hands-on attitude and ability to lead a team effectively.
Showcase Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, such as your degree in a scientific subject and any HACCP or VACCP certifications. Highlight your experience with M&S supply chain and any other relevant standards or practices.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Anticipate questions related to your experience in managing technical agendas and leading audits. Be ready to discuss how you would approach continuous improvement in technical systems and stakeholder relationships.
How to prepare for a job interview at Virani Food Products Limited
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Head of Technical, it's crucial to demonstrate your depth of knowledge in food safety, compliance, and quality assurance. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience that highlight your ability to manage technical agendas and ensure adherence to regulatory standards.
✨Emphasise Leadership Skills
You'll be leading a team of 10, so it's important to convey your leadership style and how you motivate and support your team. Share instances where you've successfully led teams through challenges or implemented improvements in processes.
✨Understand the Company’s Products
Familiarise yourself with Virani Food Products Limited's product range, especially in spices, herbs, and pulse flours. Being able to discuss their market position and the unique challenges they face will show your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills in real-world scenarios. Think about potential challenges in the spice and herb sector and how you would address them, particularly regarding supply chain integrity and compliance.
