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- Tasks: Lead ethical compliance strategy and conduct supplier audits in a global supply chain.
- Company: Join a leading organisation in the food and drink manufacturing industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on ethical standards while working with diverse teams and suppliers.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in ethical trade, degree in relevant field, and experience with UK retailers required.
- Other info: Ideal for detail-oriented individuals passionate about sustainability and responsible sourcing.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are working with a leading organisation in the food and drink manufacturing industry to recruit a dedicated and experienced Ethical Compliance Lead. This is a critical role focused on maintaining the highest ethical standards across a complex, global supply chain—ensuring compliance with international frameworks and retailer requirements while aligning with commercial objectives.
This opportunity suits a professional with a strong technical background in food manufacturing and a proven track record in ethical compliance, supplier engagement, and responsible sourcing.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead the ethical compliance strategy for the business, embedding standards such as ETI Base Code, SEDEX, UK retailer codes of practice, and Stronger Together across all supply chain activities.
- Conduct thorough risk assessments of global suppliers to identify high-risk regions, products, or practices, and implement clear action plans.
- Deliver and oversee ethical audits of suppliers and internal operations, with full responsibility for reporting, follow-up, and continuous improvement.
- Ensure that manufacturing and operational sites are fully aligned with ethical standards, including managing internal SEDEX processes and audits.
- Provide expert training, support, and governance to teams across technical, procurement, and operational departments.
- Monitor and report on compliance performance to senior leadership and external stakeholders.
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in ethical trade, compliance, or responsible sourcing within the food and drink manufacturing industry.
- 10+ years’ experience in the wider food industry, with strong cross-functional understanding (technical, procurement, operations).
- Degree in Food Science, Supply Chain Management, Sustainability, or a related field.
- Experience working with major UK retailers and their compliance requirements.
- Skilled in ethical auditing, supplier development, and stakeholder communication.
- Resilient, detail-focused, and commercially aware, with the ability to manage complex challenges confidently.
- Microsoft Office Suite
- SAP or similar ERP systems
- Paperless manufacturing systems
- Power BI (advantageous)
Ethical Compliance Lead employer: Zest Food Jobs
Contact Detail:
Zest Food Jobs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Ethical Compliance Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the food and drink manufacturing industry, especially those involved in ethical compliance. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and challenges in ethical sourcing.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with key ethical standards and frameworks such as the ETI Base Code and SEDEX. Being well-versed in these guidelines will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to ethical compliance during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully implemented ethical compliance strategies in previous roles. Highlight your experience with risk assessments and audits, as this will showcase your hands-on expertise in managing compliance within a complex supply chain.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest developments in ethical trade and compliance, particularly in relation to UK retailers. This knowledge will help you engage in informed discussions during interviews and demonstrate your proactive approach to staying current in the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Ethical Compliance Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in ethical compliance and food manufacturing. Use specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of international frameworks and retailer requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you are passionate about ethical compliance in the food industry. Mention your relevant experience and how it aligns with the responsibilities of the Ethical Compliance Lead role.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your skills in ethical auditing, supplier engagement, and stakeholder communication. Provide concrete examples of how you've successfully managed compliance challenges in previous roles.
Showcase Continuous Improvement: Discuss any initiatives you've led or contributed to that improved compliance performance or ethical standards. This could include training programmes, audits, or risk assessments you've conducted.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zest Food Jobs
✨Showcase Your Ethical Compliance Knowledge
Make sure to highlight your understanding of ethical compliance frameworks like the ETI Base Code and SEDEX. Be prepared to discuss how you've implemented these standards in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your expertise and alignment with the company's values.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think of examples where you've conducted risk assessments or managed supplier audits, and be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes of your actions.
✨Emphasise Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since the role requires working across various departments, be sure to illustrate your experience in collaborating with technical, procurement, and operational teams. Share specific instances where your teamwork led to successful compliance initiatives.
✨Demonstrate Your Training Skills
As part of the role involves providing training and support, prepare to discuss your approach to educating teams on ethical standards. Highlight any past experiences where you successfully trained others and the impact it had on compliance performance.
