At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead food safety and quality management systems in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a leading FMCG manufacturer committed to quality and continuous improvement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus, pension scheme, and company discounts.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food safety and quality while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and experience in food safety or quality management.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
A leading FMCG manufacturer is seeking an experienced Food Safety & Quality Management Systems Lead to take ownership of an externally accredited QMS and Food Safety system. This is a key role focused on driving continuous improvement, ensuring compliance, and maintaining high standards across a fast-paced, quality-driven production environment.
As the Food Safety & QMS Lead, you will be responsible for developing and enhancing site quality systems, leading audits, managing non-conformances, and embedding a strong quality culture across the operation.
Responsibilities:
- Manage and continually improve the site’s QMS and Food Safety Management System, including all associated documentation
- Coordinate the internal audit programme and support all external audits
- Lead external audits and regulatory visits
- Investigate customer complaints and non-conformances, driving effective corrective and preventative actions (CAPA)
- Analyse quality data, KPIs, and trends to identify areas for improvement
- Deliver training and coaching to ensure compliance and improve capability across the site
- Act as the technical lead for all quality and food safety matters within manufacturing
- Support and lead HACCP activities, including plan development and ongoing reviews
- Define controls, sampling plans, and traceability processes to manage contamination and allergen risks
Knowledge, Skills & Experience:
- Degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, or similar
- Experience within FMCG manufacturing, ideally within food safety or quality management
- Strong knowledge of HACCP, GMP, and food safety regulations (Level 4 desirable)
- Experience working with FSSC, BRC or similar standards
- Confident leading audits, investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Strong stakeholder management across manufacturing, engineering, and site leadership teams
- Proficient with Microsoft Office; SAP experience advantageous
The Benefits:
- £50,000 – £55,000
- Bonus
- Pension scheme
- 4 x Life assurance
- Company discounts
Please note as we receive a high level of applications we can only respond to applicants whose skills & qualifications are suitable for this position.
Food Safety & QMS Lead – Gloucestershire employer: Wagstaff Recruitment
Wagstaff Recruitment is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With structured pay progression, comprehensive training, and a focus on work-life balance, this role in Durham provides a meaningful opportunity for healthcare professionals to make a difference while enjoying predictable hours and generous benefits.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Food Safety & QMS Lead – Gloucestershire
✨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 Wagstaff Recruitment.
✨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 Wagstaff Recruitment!
✨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 Wagstaff Recruitment, 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 Wagstaff Recruitment, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Food Safety & QMS Lead – Gloucestershire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Wagstaff Recruitment, 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 Wagstaff Recruitment.
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 Wagstaff Recruitment. 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 Wagstaff Recruitment. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wagstaff Recruitment
✨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 Wagstaff Recruitment’s mission.
