Ethical Compliance Lead

3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. 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. You Might Be Great Fit If You Have: 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. Preferred System Knowledge: Microsoft Office Suite SAP or similar ERP systems Paperless manufacturing systems Power BI (advantageous) Seniority level Seniority level Not Applicable Employment type Employment type Full-time Job function Job function Supply Chain and Quality Assurance Industries Food and Beverage Manufacturing Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Zest Food Jobs by 2x Canvey Island, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Head of Supply Chain/Operations (medical device) Wickford, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Boreham, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Basildon, England, United Kingdom 2 days ago Harlow, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Harlow, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Canvey Island, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Harlow, England, United Kingdom 1 month ago Essex, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Theydon Bois, England, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago Colchester, England, United Kingdom 1 month ago Billericay, England, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago Basildon, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Harlow, England, United Kingdom 1 month ago Waltham Abbey, England, United Kingdom 6 days ago Brentwood, England, United Kingdom 2 days ago Doddinghurst, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago Waltham Abbey, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Basildon, England, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago Waltham Abbey, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago Waltham Abbey, England, United Kingdom 6 days ago Waltham Abbey, England, United Kingdom 3 days ago Waltham Abbey, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI. #J-18808-Ljbffr