Head of Technical – Food Manufacturing
Cornwall | £80–85k + Bonus + Relocation Package
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a hands-on Head of Technical to join a rapidly growing food manufacturing business based in Cornwall.
The business was acquired by a leading European food group 18 months ago and has since entered a major investment and growth phase. With over £20 million invested into a brand-new production facility opening this year, the company is now positioned for significant expansion.
The ambition is clear: to double the business over the next five years and double it again in the five years after that. This role will be central to building the technical capability required to support that growth.
The Role
This is a practical, site-based leadership role where you will take full ownership of the technical function, ensuring the highest standards of food safety, quality and compliance while supporting the business as it scales.
Working closely with the senior leadership team and the wider European group, you will lead the technical agenda across the site, embedding best practice, developing the team, and ensuring the business is fully prepared for accelerated growth.
Key responsibilities will include:
• Leading the site technical and quality function
• Ensuring full compliance with BRCGS, retailer standards and regulatory requirements
• Developing and mentoring the technical team
• Acting as the key interface with customers, auditors and regulatory bodies
• Supporting the commissioning and technical setup of the new £20m manufacturing facility
• Driving continuous improvement across food safety, quality systems and site standards
• Working cross-functionally with operations, NPD and the wider European group
The Person
We are looking for a strong technical leader who is comfortable being hands-on on the factory floor and who enjoys building capability within growing businesses.
You will ideally bring experience from complex food manufacturing environments such as:
• Retort / ambient ready meals
• UHT processing
• Chilled desserts
• Complex multi-component ready meals
Other requirements include:
• Proven leadership experience within food manufacturing technical functions
• Strong knowledge of BRCGS and retailer standards
• Experience supporting site growth, investment projects or factory commissioning would be highly beneficial
• A practical, collaborative leadership style
The Opportunity
This is a rare opportunity to join a business at the beginning of a major growth journey, with the backing of a well-established European food group and significant recent investment.
You will play a key role in shaping the technical strategy for a business that is set to scale rapidly over the coming decade.
Package
• £80,000 – £85,000 salary
• Performance bonus
• Relocation package available
• Based in Cornwall
If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, please get in touch.
NB - This is a retained search. Any direct or speculative applications will be forwarded to Silven for inclusion in the process

Northbridge 75 Ltd t/a Silven Recruitment

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