At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the technical team to ensure food safety and quality compliance.
- Company: Join Taiko, the UK's leading sushi manufacturer with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and wellness support services.
- Other info: Be part of a company that values continuous improvement and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in food safety and quality while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in food manufacturing and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 80000 £ per year.
Established in 1997 as the first manufacturer of sushi for the UK supermarket industry, Taiko has evolved into the most innovative manufacturer of Sushi, Food To Go, Prepared Meals and Snacking products in the UK, supplying Waitrose, Tesco and Sainsburys to name a few. Over the past 25 years Taiko has launched more first to market Sushi and Food to Go products than any other sushi manufacturer in the UK.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership: Provide senior-level technical expertise, advising the business on food safety, compliance, and quality standards to align with company objectives and industry best practices.
- Technical Governance: Oversee all aspects of food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance, ensuring full adherence to legal, corporate, and BRCGS accreditation requirements.
- Quality Management System (QMS): Ensure the QMS is effectively managed, regularly reviewed, and continuously improved to drive operational excellence.
- Audit & Compliance Management: Lead customer and third-party audits, ensuring the business consistently meets certification and compliance standards.
- HACCP & Risk Management: Lead the HACCP team, ensuring effective risk assessments, reviews, and implementation of corrective and preventative actions.
- Technical Team Leadership: Manage and develop the technical team, providing coaching, training, and succession planning to build capability and expertise.
- Innovation & Product Development Support: Collaborate with NPD, sourcing, and operational teams to ensure technical feasibility and compliance for new and existing products.
- Performance & Continuous Improvement: Monitor and drive improvements in departmental KPIs, challenging processes and implementing strategies to enhance overall performance.
- Regulatory & Industry Awareness: Stay ahead of changes in legislation and industry developments, ensuring timely implementation of new regulatory requirements.
We're proud to offer opportunities to grow your career alongside us with available apprentice programs and brilliant support services designed to enhance your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Annual discretionary bonus subject to performance.
Head of Technical employer: YO! Sushi
At Taiko, we pride ourselves on being an innovative leader in the food manufacturing industry, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters professional growth and development. As the Head of Technical, you will benefit from a supportive culture that prioritises employee wellbeing, alongside opportunities for career advancement through our apprenticeship programme. Join us in our state-of-the-art head office, where your expertise will directly contribute to maintaining the highest standards of food safety and quality, all while collaborating with a passionate team dedicated to continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Technical
✨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 YO! Sushi.
✨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 YO! Sushi!
✨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 YO! Sushi, 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 YO! Sushi, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Technical
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at YO! Sushi, 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 YO! Sushi.
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 YO! Sushi. 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 YO! Sushi. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at YO! Sushi
✨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 YO! Sushi’s mission.
