Zest

Specification Technologist - Food Manufacturing (West Midlands) Zest Recruitment is delighted to be partnering with a well-established food manufacturer to recruit a Specification Technologist. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a keen eye for detail and a passion for food safety and compliance to join a busy, collaborative technical team. Reporting to the Technical Manager, you'll be the go-to person for all things specifications, labelling and legislation making sure every product leaving site is safe, legally compliant and ready for market. The role: - Create, review and maintain product specifications and customer specification manuals - Review and approve packaging details and product artwork, ensuring full legislative compliance - Develop standard operating procedures for artwork and promotional material - Keep the business ahead of labelling policies, food safety legislation and upcoming regulatory changes across all markets - Provide technical advice on shelf life, nutritional value and product quality - Support NPD in bringing new and promotional products to market - Liaise with raw material suppliers to obtain specifications and maintain allergen and risk assessment databases - Compile technical reports, data analysis and product testing schedules - Support colleagues, visitors and auditors with clear, accurate technical guidance About you: - Minimum 1 year's experience in a food manufacturing environment - Confident and familiar with product specifications - Strong understanding of food labelling requirements and legislation - Computer literate and comfortable picking up new systems - Excellent written and spoken English, with strong numerical ability - A degree in Food Science, Nutrition or a science-related subject is advantageous - Organised, analytical and able to work under your own initiative with a good sense of humour! This is a brilliant chance to take ownership of specifications within a growing business and play a key part in getting great products to market. Please note: Sponsorship is not available for this opportunity Interested? Apply now or get in touch with Danielle Bailey on (phone number removed) or (url removed) for a confidential chat. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We are recruiting for a Senior Development Manager to join one of the most exciting sites in the convenience foods sector, a business with an award-winning culture, a real sense of purpose and a passion for giving back that runs through everything it does, from ambitious sustainability goals to a heavy commitment to supporting local charities. This is your chance to take the reins on innovation for a major portfolio, owning the product journey from first concept through to customer handover. You will be the driving force behind the NPD pipeline, working hand in hand with Commercial, Category, Technical and Operations teams to push boundaries on product and process innovation while keeping a sharp eye on commercial feasibility. One minute you'll be elbow-deep in the development kitchen, the next you'll be presenting confidently to a major retail customer, bringing your knowledge and enthusiasm to every conversation. We are looking for someone with at least four years' experience in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment (UK), a natural ability to inspire and influence those around them and genuine leadership credentials. You will have two direct reports to develop and mentor, helping to build a team that's as engaged and high-performing as the site itself. A full driving license and your own transport are needed, as the role may involve occasional travel to other sites. If you want to bring your passion for food and your commercial know-how to a site that truly lives its values and makes a difference beyond the factory floor, this could be the move you've been waiting for. Send relevant CVs to (url removed) or call Nicola on (phone number removed). As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Are you passionate about creating innovative confectionery products and seeing your ideas come to life on the shelf? An exciting opportunity has arisen for an NPD Technologist to join a growing premium confectionery manufacturer renowned for combining traditional craftsmanship with innovation to create high-quality products for retail, gifting and specialist markets. Reporting to the Head of NPD, you will play a key role in developing new products from concept through to commercial launch. Working closely with production, technical and commercial teams, you will be involved in recipe development, product trials, factory scale-up and launch activities, ensuring products meet the highest standards of quality, performance and compliance. This is a hands-on role with a strong focus on confectionery products, requiring experience in formulation, processing and scaling products from pilot trials to full production. You will also support product optimisation, troubleshoot manufacturing challenges and maintain accurate technical documentation throughout the development process. To be successful, you will hold a degree in Food Science, Food Technology or a related discipline and have previous NPD experience within the confectionery sector, Happy to present to customers alongside a strong understanding of ingredients, processing and food safety standards. This is a fantastic opportunity to join an innovative and collaborative business where you will have the chance to make a real impact, work on exciting new product launches and develop your career within a fast-paced and creative environment. Please Note: Sponsorship is not available for this role If you would like a confidential conversation to find out more, please contact Danielle on (phone number removed) or (url removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

I am looking for hands on Process Technologist who is looking to join a booming and growing business. This role will be fast paced, working across multiple top retailers and offers a large variety of products. You will be heading up the process team and working closely with NPD to deliver products to launch efficiently. As Senior Process Technologist you will provide a site-based resource within the development department to own and manage NPD, EPD projects for the site for the customer base from process handover to launch. From site approval you will head up projects / process handover and execution of successful scale up of products into the factory to meet both the customer and businesses expectations, whilst satisfying all relevant technical and operational criteria in line with a very high critical path. Thus, delivering a timely and faultless successful launch, supported by the relevant site functions. A varied position which requires an individual with previous process experience who is searching for that career defining opportunity. You will need a min of 3 years process exp and a strong work ethic. Please get in touch (url removed) / (phone number removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Love getting the detail exactly right? This is your chance to join a well-established and passionate FMCG business as their next Specifications Technologist, working hybrid, full time, 37.5 hours, Monday to Friday. If you take genuine pride in accuracy and want to play a pivotal role at the heart of a values-driven business, this role is built for you. Sitting right at the centre of the business, you will be the vital link between Technical, NPD, Packaging and Commercial teams, keeping product launches on track and compliance watertight every step of the way. You will take full ownership of finished product specifications, creating, reviewing and maintaining them across retailer and customer systems, ensuring everything is accurate, legally compliant and delivered within agreed project timelines, all in line with BRCGS and customer requirements. You will be the go-to expert for technical compliance, validating ingredient declarations, allergens, nutritional data, country of origin, shelf life and storage instructions against UK food legislation and retailer codes of practice, and stepping up to support audits with confidence when needed. You will also own artwork approval from start to finish, verifying artwork against specifications and legal labelling requirements, coordinating stakeholder feedback and giving final sign-off on pack copy and outer case labels. Working closely with Technical, NPD, Procurement and Packaging teams, you will help drive product launches forward, keep specification and artwork milestones firmly on track and bring real insight to project meetings. You will also play an active role in continuous improvement, staying ahead of legislative and retailer developments, spotting opportunities to sharpen processes and controls and sharing your knowledge across the wider business. To thrive in this role, you will need a degree or equivalent qualification in Food Science, Food Technology or a related discipline, along with at least two years experience writing UK retail specifications. If you take ownership, thrive on getting things right first time and want to bring your specifications expertise to a business that truly lives its values, we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch with Nicola Richardson on (phone number removed) or email (url removed) to find out more. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Zest Recruitment is delighted to be working with a leading food manufacturer, supplying innovative, high-quality products to retail, foodservice and wholesale customers. Our client prides itself on working in partnership with world-class suppliers to develop bespoke products that meet customer requirements while maintaining the highest standards of quality, food safety and full traceability. The Role You'll lead the New Product Development (NPD) team, driving innovation and managing the complete product development process from concept through to successful launch. Key Responsibilities - Take full ownership of the NPD process, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and to the highest standards. - Manage customer briefs from concept to commercial launch, ensuring timescales and objectives are achieved. - Build and maintain strong customer relationships to support successful product development and identify future business opportunities. - Work collaboratively with Production, Technical, Procurement, Commercial, and Operations teams to ensure seamless product launches. - Monitor market trends, consumer insights, and competitor activity to drive innovation and identify new product opportunities. - Develop and deliver engaging customer presentations tailored to individual requirements. - Lead, motivate, and develop the NPD team, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration and continuous improvement. About You We're looking for a passionate and commercially aware food professional who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Essential Skills & Experience - Degree in Food Science or a related discipline - Proven experience within food manufacturing. - Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple development projects simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines. - Previous experience leading and developing a team. - A creative and strategic approach to food innovation. - Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. - Strong organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail. - Full UK driving licence. Why Apply? This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of a growing product portfolio. You'll work closely with major B2B and foodservice customers, leading innovation within a dynamic business where your ideas can make a real commercial impact. Please Note: Sponsorship is not available for this role If you would like a confidential conversation to find out more, please contact Danielle on (phone number removed) or (url removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

A fast-scaling, well-known food and drink brand is looking for an experienced technical leader to take charge of manufacturing standards and supplier relationships across multiple sites. This is a senior leadership role for someone who wants real ownership: shaping technical direction, building strong co-manufacturer partnerships, and acting as the key link between technical risk and commercial decision-making at leadership level. What you'll be doing: Setting the technical strategy across process, quality and supplier capability, spanning multiple countries Leading and developing a small technical team, building their skills in process understanding, root cause investigation and stakeholder influence Establishing consistent standards and ways of working across all manufacturing partners Taking ownership of major technical incidents and risks, ensuring fixes address root causes rather than symptoms Leading the onboarding and readiness assessment of new manufacturing partners Running efficiency and improvement programmes with suppliers Acting as technical lead on new product development, spotting risks early and steering products through to launch Presenting technical issues in commercial terms senior leadership can act on What you'll bring: Strong background in thermal processing, with the ability to set and validate standards across several manufacturing sites A track record of building and leading technical teams Solid knowledge of UK and EU food legislation, applied internationally Experience driving lasting improvements through data and structured investigation methods Strong commercial awareness - comfortable translating technical risk into business impact Confident negotiator, able to hold suppliers to high standards while keeping relationships strong Resilience and pace in a fast-growing environment Willingness to travel internationally on a regular basis As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Fancy joining a fantastic food business where process really is the beating heart of great products? We are on the hunt for a Senior Process Technologist to bring their UK food manufacturing know-how to a team that takes real pride in getting things right, from the factory floor all the way through to the finished product on shelf. This is a brilliant opportunity to get properly stuck in, using your process expertise to shape how products are made, not just what goes into them. You will be right at the centre of the action, optimising processes, troubleshooting on the factory floor, and working closely with NPD, Technical, Operations and Engineering teams to turn great ideas into products that work brilliantly at scale. Expect plenty of variety, from process trials and product scale-up to problem-solving on the line when things don't go quite to plan. You will bring a sharp eye for detail, a genuine curiosity for how and why things work, and the confidence to challenge and improve processes that may have been "always done that way." If you love getting hands-on, enjoy a fast-moving factory environment, and want to be part of a business that genuinely values its people and its product, you will feel right at home here. To be considered, you will need solid process experience gained within UK food manufacturing, along with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work confidently across both office and factory environments. A collaborative, can-do attitude and a passion for continuous improvement will help you thrive in this role. If this sounds like your kind of challenge, please get in touch with Nicola Richardson on (phone number removed) or email (url removed) to find out more. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Supplier Technical Manager Location: South East England (Hybrid) Our client is a leading organisation within the food sector seeking an experienced Supplier Technical Manager to join their team. This role is responsible for managing supplier performance, compliance, product quality and food safety standards across a diverse supply base. Working closely with internal stakeholders, you will play a key role in driving continuous improvement, ensuring supplier compliance and reducing supply chain risk while supporting the delivery of high-quality products. Key Responsibilities - Manage and develop technical relationships with suppliers. - Ensure supplier compliance with food safety, quality, legal and customer requirements. - Lead supplier approval, monitoring and performance review activities. - Conduct supplier audits and support external audit programmes. - Review and approve technical documentation, specifications and quality systems. - Investigate supplier-related incidents, complaints and non-conformances, ensuring effective corrective actions are implemented. - Work closely with Procurement, Quality and Operational teams to support sourcing activities and business objectives. - Monitor industry developments, legislation and emerging risks within the supply chain. - Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance supplier performance and product quality. - Support the implementation and maintenance of supplier assurance programmes. About You - Previous experience within a Supplier Technical, Supplier Quality or Technical Management role. - Experience gained within foodservice, hospitality, retail, FMCG or food manufacturing environments. - Strong knowledge of food safety, quality systems and supplier assurance. - Experience conducting supplier audits and managing supplier performance. - Good understanding of HACCP, BRCGS standards and relevant food legislation. - Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills. - Strong problem-solving abilities with a proactive and solutions-focused approach. - The ability to influence and build effective working relationships both internally and externally. - A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required. If you're open to a confidential conversation, or know someone who could be a good fit, feel free to call me directly on (phone number removed) or email (url removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Production Shift Manager Food Manufacturing Permanent Full-time 40 hours per week Some production roles are about keeping the operation running. Others give you the opportunity to help shape what comes next. I'm exclusively supporting a long-standing and highly respected food manufacturing business in Cornwall as they continue through an exciting period of expansion, investment and growth click apply for full job details

Fresh produce doesn't stand still, and neither does the technical work behind it. We're recruiting on behalf of a fast-moving business in the fresh produce sector for a Technologist to join their Technical team - someone who wants real ownership over quality, compliance, and supplier relationships, not just a seat at the table. What you'll be doing: Leading on supplier approval and due diligence, including onboarding new suppliers and seasonal reviews, and supporting sign-off on specifications and technical programs Acting as a point of contact for customers, building strong relationships and keeping the wider business informed of what they need Investigating the root cause behind complaints and following through with fixes that stick, using data to identify where quality or efficiency could improve Contributing to new product development from concept through to launch, and keeping specifications and documentation accurate and up to date Liaising with suppliers and site teams on seasonal, ethical, and environmental matters Visiting supplier or grower sites periodically to see performance first-hand Carrying out GMP and food safety audits, managing the sample approval process, and championing strong hygiene and health & safety practices What you'll bring: Experience in a technical, quality, or compliance role within fresh produce or food manufacturing Confidence managing specifications, supplier due diligence, and customer-facing communication Familiarity with BRCGS, HACCP, or similar food safety standards A hands-on, detail-focused approach and the flexibility to manage shifting priorities A natural sense of ownership - comfortable taking responsibility without needing to be chased If you're interested in a confidential chat, feel like your skills align, or you're simply looking for the next step in your career, follow the link to submit your CV, or send it directly to (url removed). As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

For over two decades, our client has built a reputation as a go-to ingredients partner for well-known names across the food industry, helping brands create dishes that genuinely stand out to today's consumers. We're looking for a detail-oriented Materials Planner to join this growing food manufacturing business, supporting both New Product Development and site-wide packaging purchasing. Key Responsibilities: -Materials planning across the site -Managing the purchasing of materials for the New Product Development team, ensuring the right supplier is found, at the right price, first time -Reporting on waste and leading waste meetings -Responsible for supplier scorecards - ensuring deliveries are made on time and in full, while monitoring supplier performance -Purchasing packaging for the site -Administration and maintenance of supplier contracts -Providing cover for the wider Planning Team as and when required Requirements: -A minimum of two years' experience in materials planning -Experience of working in the food industry would be beneficial -Strong Excel skills -Experience working with MRP systems (M3 would be preferred) -Confident in dealing with both internal and external stakeholders Benefits: -A competitive salary -A supportive management team with an open-door policy -Contributory pension -Access to an Employee Assistance Programme -Access to a discounts platform offering savings at many high street stores -Regular team lunches, Christmas hampers, and team-building events -Opportunities to develop through recognised training courses -Opportunities to progress, with a promote-from-within culture -Close to good transport links People are at the heart of how they operate - ideas are welcomed from every corner of the business, and a genuinely inclusive, respectful culture runs through how they treat both their teams and the customers they work with. It's a workplace that looks after its people, with regular staff recognition and food-focused events throughout the year. Hard work doesn't go unnoticed here, and colleagues are encouraged to grow alongside a business that takes real pride in the quality of what it produces. This is a fantastic opportunity to join an innovative, values-driven business at the heart of the food industry. Apply now to find out more. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Exciting Opportunity for a Senior NPD Technologist in the Hertfordshire! Are you passionate about developing delicious products that will make a mark on the UK's top retailers? Our client is seeking a talented and creative Product Developer to join their dynamic team. As a Product Developer, you will have the opportunity to work closely with renowned retailers, managing your own accounts and bringing new and exciting products to life. This role offers a unique chance to unleash your culinary expertise and innovative ideas, shaping the future of delicious offerings in the market. Key Responsibilities: Collaborate with leading UK retailers to understand their needs and develop products that align with their brand and target market. Manage your own accounts, building strong relationships with clients and providing exceptional service. Utilize your creativity and market research to ideate, conceptualize, and develop innovative food and beverage products. Conduct thorough product testing, ensuring quality, taste, and compliance with regulatory standards. Monitor market trends, competitor analysis, and customer feedback to identify opportunities for product improvement and development. Join our client's team and be part of a company that values creativity, collaboration, and the pursuit of culinary excellence. This is an incredible chance to make your mark in the industry and work with the UK's top retailers. If you are passionate about food, love developing new products, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we would love to hear from you! Apply now and embark on a journey of innovation and gastronomic delight. Please send your details through to Jecca on (url removed) / (phone number removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Production Shift Manager Food Manufacturing Permanent Full-time 40 hours per week Some production roles are about keeping the operation running. Others give you the opportunity to help shape what comes next. I'm exclusively supporting a long-standing and highly respected food manufacturing business in Cornwall as they continue through an exciting period of expansion, investment and growth. As part of that journey, they're looking to appoint a Production Shift Manager who can take ownership of shift performance, lead from the front and help build on the strong foundations already in place. And importantly, this opportunity isn't just for someone who already has "Shift Manager" on their CV. If you're an ambitious Team Leader or Production Supervisor who is ready to take that next step, this could be exactly the opportunity you've been waiting for. The Opportunity You'll take responsibility for leading the production operation across your shift, with accountability for people, safety, quality, performance and delivery. This is a role where your presence will genuinely matter. You'll be the senior operational leader on shift, making decisions, setting standards and ensuring the team has everything it needs to deliver safely, efficiently and consistently. You'll lead a production team through a highly controlled food manufacturing process, ensuring key parameters, hygiene standards, quality requirements and production targets are consistently achieved. From start-up and in-process checks through to troubleshooting, performance management and continuous improvement, you'll be close to the operation and expected to make confident decisions in real time. But this isn't simply about hitting production numbers. It's about building people. You'll coach and develop your team, manage attendance and performance, identify skills gaps and create an environment where people understand what good looks like - and have the support to achieve it. You'll also work closely with Technical, Engineering and Planning to solve problems, improve performance and continually raise operational standards. What makes this opportunity different? The business is investing heavily in its future. There is expansion, development and significant opportunity ahead, making this an exciting time to join. For the right person, this role can become much more than the next line on your CV. It offers the chance to establish yourself within a growing manufacturing operation, broaden your leadership capability and build a long-term career within a highly respected business. If you're currently a Production Supervisor or Team Leader and feel ready to step into a management position, you'll be considered. What matters most is that you have the ambition, leadership capability and appetite to grow. What we're looking for You'll ideally bring: Experience leading teams within food manufacturing, FMCG or another highly regulated manufacturing environment. Strong understanding of production processes, food safety, quality and operational standards. The confidence to make decisions and take ownership of shift performance. A hands-on leadership style with the ability to motivate, coach and develop people. The ability to balance firmness with fairness and build a positive team culture. A detail-conscious, meticulous and hardworking approach. A genuine desire to improve - both yourself and the operation around you. Ideally, previous experience as a Shift Manager, Production Manager, Production Supervisor or Team Leader ready to step up. Above all, we're looking for someone who takes responsibility, communicates openly and believes in doing the right thing - even when it's difficult. The Shift Pattern 4 on 4 off (days and nights) If you're an experienced Production Supervisor or Team Leader looking for that next step - or an established Shift Manager looking for a business where you can genuinely make an impact - I'd be keen to speak with you. This is an opportunity to join a business with a strong heritage, an exciting future and the ambition to keep investing in its people and operation. Apply now or get in touch for a confidential conversation. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Our client, a well-established and growing name within the food manufacturing sector, is looking to appoint an experienced Hygiene Manager to lead their Hygiene department. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a business that is investing in its team and continuing to expand. As Hygiene Manager, you will play a key role in maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and compliance across the site, working closely with both the Production and Technical teams to ensure operations run smoothly and to the highest standard. The Role: -Lead and manage the Hygiene team, supporting their development and performance -Work closely with Production and Technical departments across site to align hygiene practices with operational needs -Ensure all hygiene equipment is maintained in accordance with SOPs and CICs -Conduct regular hygiene audits across the site -Ensure the site is audit-ready at all times, maintaining compliance with retailer and BRC standards -Participate in external audits and site visits -Ensure hygiene training is delivered consistently across the site and factory floor Requirements: -Proven experience leading and managing a team within a hygiene or food manufacturing environment -Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments -Strong working knowledge of BRC and HACCP standards -Previous experience working to retailer standards is essential Salary - 40,000 - 45,000 The ideal candidate will be working in a similar position within food production. If you feel this exceptional opportunity is for you and you meet the above criteria, then click apply and send us an updated copy of your CV - alternatively you can send through your C.V to (url removed) or phone (phone number removed). As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Ever wondered what goes into the food products you see on menus and shelves everywhere? This is a hands-on role in the development kitchen, helping create products that end up in front of customers across the country, as part of a tight-knit R&D team known for backing new talent and teaching them the trade properly, from the first kitchen sample right through to commercial launch. Day to day, you'll support NPD and EPD projects from concept through to launch, build and present product samples, get stuck into recipe development and ingredient testing, run supplier evaluations and factory trials and take part in taste panels and benchmarking. You'll also join customer presentations and innovation sessions, working closely with Commercial, Technical, Process, Procurement and Operations to bring products to life. We're looking for someone with a degree, HND or equivalent in Food Science, Food Technology, Culinary Arts or similar or the industry experience to match, along with a genuine passion for food and product development, strong organisation and communication skills and a collaborative approach across departments. Experience in FMCG food manufacturing, a commercial kitchen or foodservice background or a full UK driving licence would all be an advantage. This role offers the pace and agility of a smaller team backed by a genuinely global food group, with real exposure to major foodservice and consumer brands, an end-to-end view of product development, and ongoing mentoring within a supportive, hands-on R&D team. Please note, our client is unable to accept visa applications for this role. Please call Nicola on (phone number removed) for a confidential chat or send your updated CV to (url removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Join one of the UK's most reputable chilled food groups as their next New Product Development Manager, at a site that has secured a multiple million pound investment and is rapidly expanding. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced NPD professional to take the lead on innovation, drive real commercial impact and be a key face of the business in front of customers. As NPD Manager, you will own and drive the NPD and Innovation programme across the site, managing a robust Stage & Gate process that delivers products right first time, on brief and on time. You will build a proactive innovation pipeline covering NPD, EPD and new concepts, aligned to business strategy, food trends and category insight, while ensuring every product delivers on eating quality, operational capability, food safety and commercial viability. You will be a key customer-facing representative for the business, leading presentations, benchmarking sessions and product showcases, and building strong, lasting relationships with major retailer and customer teams. Confidence in front of the customer is essential, as is the ability to manage critical paths effectively, keep launch plans on track and communicate project status, risks and mitigation plans clearly and proactively. Leading a team including a Senior NPD Technologist, Junior NPD Technologist and NPD Apprentice, you will coach and develop your team, creating a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement, while working closely with Operations, Technical, Commercial, Procurement and Planning to keep everything moving in the right direction. To succeed in this role, you will bring solid NPD experience gained within food manufacturing, ideally chilled, along with a genuine passion for food, strong commercial awareness and a track record of managing teams and customer relationships with confidence. If you are ready to bring your NPD expertise to a business investing seriously in its future, please get in touch with Nicola Richardson on (phone number removed) or email (url removed) to find out more. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We are delighted to be working with a well-established and growing food manufacturing business, who are looking to welcome a Technical Graduate into their expanding technical team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a food science graduate to take their first step into a technical career within the food manufacturing industry, gaining hands-on exposure to quality, compliance, and product development within a supportive and knowledgeable team. Reporting directly to the Quality Manager, you will sit as part of the wider technical function, supporting the technical team across a variety of responsibilities as the business continues to grow. This role offers genuine progression potential and the chance to build a well-rounded foundation across technical, quality, and compliance disciplines. Responsibilities: Coordinate all technical systems, ensuring customer requirements are consistently delivered. Implement quality systems and ensure they are continually updated and maintained in line with BRC requirements. Play an active role as part of the site HACCP team. Support new product launches, working closely with colleagues across the site. Conduct and support internal audits. Support external audits, including BRC and customer audits, providing documentation as required. Handle and respond to customer complaints in a timely and professional manner. Requirements: A Food Science, or related, degree is essential. An understanding of retailer requirements is essential for this role. A good understanding of BRC and HACCP requirements. A strong ability to communicate effectively and work well as part of a team. An adaptable approach, with the willingness to learn and take on new challenges. This is a wonderful opportunity for a graduate to launch a long-term career in technical food manufacturing, with genuine mentorship, variety, and room to grow within a business that values its people. If you are passionate about food safety and quality, and keen to build a meaningful career in the industry, we would love to hear from you. The ideal candidate will be working in a similar position within food production. If you feel this exceptional opportunity is for you and you meet the above criteria, then click apply and send us an updated copy of your CV - alternatively you can send through your C.V to (url removed) or phone (phone number removed). As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We're e recruiting on behalf of a well-established and growing client, who are seeking a Technical Assistant to join their expanding Technical Team. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking business with a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Due to continued business growth, our client is looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Technical Assistant to bolster their technical function. You will play a key role in ensuring product compliance, maintaining high technical standards, and supporting both internal teams and customers. Key Responsibilities -Manage and maintain the customer database, ensuring all information is accurate and up to date. -Sign off specifications and artwork, ensuring compliance with both customer and legislative requirements. -Act as a key liaison between cross-functional teams including NPD, Technical, and Commercial. -Manage all customer technical requirements and ensure effective communication across departments. -Ensure all product specifications are current, accurate, and compliant with both BRC and customer standards. -Support the QA and Technical teams to ensure continuous compliance and product quality. -Assist in maintaining an audit-ready site and ensure compliance with BRC and retailer standards. Requirements: -Previous experience in a technical role within the food or manufacturing industry is essential. -Strong understanding of BRC standards and retailer requirements. -Excellent communication skills with the ability to liaise effectively across departments. -Highly organised, driven, and forward-thinking with great attention to detail. -Confident working in a fast-paced environment and managing multiple priorities. Salary - 15,000 - 20,000 Part time role! The ideal candidate will be working in a similar position within food production. If you feel this exceptional opportunity is for you and you meet the above criteria, then click apply and send us an updated copy of your CV - alternatively you can send through your C.V to (url removed) or phone (phone number removed). As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Zest are on the hunt for a Multi-skilled Shift Engineer to join a well-established food manufacturer in Derbyshire. Responsibilities: - Planned and reactive maintenance on a range of mechanical and electrical systems to reduce downtime and keep production running smoothly. - Troubleshoot and resolve faults on food processing and packaging equipment - Contribute to continuous improvement projects. - Work in line with food safety standards and site health and safety procedures. Requirements: - Level 3 engineering qualification (Desirable) - RTW in UK Please reach out to Josh Manby for further information - (phone number removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)