Zest

26 job(s) at Zest

Zest City, Manchester
Oct 09, 2025
Full time
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
Oct 08, 2025
Full time
Are you a food science or nutrition graduate ready to take the next step in your career? Our client is looking for a Graduate Food Development Technologist who has NPD experience from placement or since graduating. This is an excellent opportunity to apply your degree knowledge in a practical, hands-on environment while gaining exposure to the full product development process. You will be at the heart of product innovation, supporting the creation of exciting new food products from concept through to commercial launch. You will work closely with technical, production, and development teams, conducting laboratory and pilot trials, analysing results, and helping to ensure products meet the highest quality, safety, and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, creativity and excellent communication abilities, along with a solid understanding of food safety. This role offers a supportive and innovative environment, opportunity for career progression, and the chance to work on projects that make an impact. Please Note: Sponsorship is not available For a confidential conversation, contact Danielle Bailey 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)
Zest
Oct 08, 2025
Full time
We are partnered with a well-established and long standing client of ours that continues to invest heavily in their people, processes, and technical excellence. As part of their ongoing growth, they're looking to strengthen their technical team with the appointment of a Site Technical Manager - a pivotal role for someone ready to make a real impact on product quality, food safety, and team development. The Role Reporting directly to the Technical Manager, you'll take ownership of the factory QA function and ensure the site remains audit-ready at all times. You'll play a key role in driving a proactive food safety and quality culture, supporting continuous improvement, and acting as the primary contact for customers on all technical and quality-related matters. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and wants to be part of a business that values collaboration, innovation, and excellence. Key Responsibilities: -Manage and develop the factory QA team, ensuring effective day-to-day operations. -Maintain audit readiness across the site, leading both internal and external audits, including customer visits. -Deputise for the Technical Manager, providing support and leadership across the technical function. -Ensure all products consistently meet customer specifications and regulatory standards. -Act as a lead member of the HACCP team, ensuring compliance and robust risk management. -Be a key customer contact, managing relationships and ensuring confidence in site performance. -Champion a strong food safety and quality culture, engaging and influencing teams across all departments. Requirements: -Proven experience in a similar role within food manufacturing. -Strong knowledge of BRCGS and HACCP systems (Lead HACCP certification desirable). -Experience working directly with major retailers and handling customer audits. -Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop teams effectively. -Excellent communication skills - confident dealing with customers, colleagues, and auditors alike. -A proactive approach, with a passion for maintaining high standards and driving site performance forward. Salary: 60,000 - 70,000 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)
Zest
Oct 08, 2025
Full time
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Specifications Technologist to take a leading role in delivering high-quality, innovative food products. This permanent hybrid position combines the flexibility of working from home with the chance to make a direct impact on a leading brand's success. The role involves creating, maintaining, and updating product specifications to ensure full compliance with legislation while consistently exceeding retailer expectations. Building strong relationships with retailers will also be a key aspect of the role, enabling a clear understanding of their requirements and delivering every detail to the highest standard. The ideal candidate will bring proven experience in writing retail product specifications within food manufacturing, exceptional attention to detail and strong organisational skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines with precision. Success in this role comes from a collaborative mindset and the ability to ensure absolute accuracy while meeting business and retailer demands. In return, the role offers a competitive salary, hybrid working flexibility and the opportunity to make a real difference within a leading food business. For more information or to apply, contact Nicola on (phone number removed) or email your 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)
Zest City, Derby
Oct 07, 2025
Full time
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)
Zest
Oct 07, 2025
Full time
This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates with a passion for food and an appetite for career development. We are working with a well-established and respected food manufacturer in Leicestershire, recognised for developing graduate talent and fast-tracking careers within the food industry. Two graduate positions are available for individuals who completed a UK food-related degree in 2024 or 2025. These roles provide the chance to join a supportive and structured NPD team, gaining hands-on experience, mentoring from experienced professionals and close collaboration with the product development team to support innovation and new product launches. The positions offer genuine variety, with involvement across key technical functions, projects and both retail and B2B accounts. Graduates will gain valuable exposure to different areas of the business, building strong foundations for a successful career in the sector. Applicants should hold a relevant UK degree in Food Science, Food Technology or a related discipline. A proactive approach, natural curiosity and enthusiasm for the food manufacturing industry are essential, along with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. To apply, please contact Nicola on (phone number removed) or email your CV to (url removed) Please note: The company is unable to support visa applications for these roles. Only candidates with the right to work in the UK can be considered. 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
Oct 07, 2025
Full time
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Process Technologist to join a fast-paced food manufacturing environment in the South West. This role will play a key part in developing and delivering new products to market, ensuring quality, compliance and efficiency throughout the process. Key responsibilities include: Managing product development from concept to launch, ensuring customer and legislative requirements are met. Building and maintaining strong relationships with manufacturers and supporting product trials across the UK and Ireland. Coordinating samples, labelling, documentation, and shelf-life evaluations. Assisting with customer visits, including preparing product displays and providing on-site support. Identifying innovative ideas and ingredient opportunities to support continuous improvement. Monitoring food trends and competitor activity to share insights with the wider team. Candidate requirements: BSc in Food Science/Technology (or similar). 2+ years' NPD/process experience within FMCG. Strong knowledge of UK labelling legislation. Enjoys working in a fast-paced environment, both independently and as part of a team, with a hands-on approach. Excellent organisational and communication skills. A valid driving licence. This is a full-time position, Monday to Friday, with some flexibility required for trials and launches. A competitive salary and benefits package are offered. Please note sponsorship applications are not being accepted at this time. For further information or for a confidential conversation, please contact Danielle Bailey on (phone number removed) or via (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)
Zest
Oct 07, 2025
Full time
Our client is an innovative and growing manufacturer with exciting projects on the horizon, and they are seeking an experienced Technical Manager to lead their technical function and ensure the highest standards of food safety and quality. The Role: As Technical Manager, you will play a key role in overseeing the technical aspects of the manufacturing process, ensuring the site is consistently audit-ready and compliant with BRC standards. You'll work closely with the Production and NPD teams to drive improvements, maintain a strong food safety culture, and support operational efficiency. Your responsibilities will include: -Ensuring the site maintains BRC and HACCP compliance at all times -Leading external audits and site visits with confidence -Working collaboratively with Production and NPD teams to improve efficiency and standards -Embedding and maintaining a strong food safety and quality culture throughout the site -Leading, mentoring, and developing the technical team The ideal candidate will bring proven experience in a similar role within the food and drink manufacturing sector, along with strong technical knowledge and leadership skills. Requirements: -A strong understanding of BRC and HACCP standards -Proven track record of managing audits and technical compliance -Experience leading and developing teams in a fast-paced environment -Excellent communication and interpersonal skills -A proactive, problem-solving approach and attention to detail. Salary: 45,000 - 50,000 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)
Zest
Oct 07, 2025
Full time
Zest Recruitment is working with a leading UK food manufacturer renowned for its quality, innovation, and collaborative culture. This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate and experienced product developer to step into a senior role, driving exciting new concepts from idea through to launch while mentoring and supporting junior colleagues. In this role, you will: - Lead the development of innovative, commercially successful food products - Guide and support junior team members, sharing your expertise - Work closely with technical, procurement and commercial teams on cross-functional projects - Play a key part in customer briefs, factory trials and supplier collaborations This role offers the chance to make a real impact within a business that values creativity, teamwork, and professional growth. Please note: visa sponsorship is not available for this position. For more information or a confidential conversation, contact Danielle Bailey 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)
Zest
Oct 07, 2025
Contractor
This role is a fantastic opportunity to gain broad exposure across ingredient categories, allergens, and processes while working closely with colleagues in Quality, NPD, Procurement, and Supply Chain. Key Responsibilities: Supplier Compliance - Manage ingredient standards, certifications, and ensure regulatory compliance across UK, EU, and international markets. Auditing & Supplier Performance - Conduct supplier audits annually, track KPIs, and drive corrective actions to maintain high standards. Collaboration - Work cross-functionally with NPD and Procurement to align ingredient quality with innovation projects and sourcing timelines. System Development - Support the rollout of new specification systems and contribute to ingredient standards development. Ingredient Management - Oversee specifications, approvals, and supplier documentation for a wide range of raw materials. Problem-Solving - Lead investigations into supplier non-conformances, implementing CAPAs to prevent recurrence. What you'll need! 2+ years' experience in a Quality Assurance / Food Technologist role within the food industry. Strong organisational and analytical skills, with an ability to manage multiple projects. Excellent communication skills, with confidence working cross-functionally and with suppliers. A proactive, can-do mindset and willingness to learn quickly. Knowledge of food safety standards and regulatory frameworks (UK/EU/US) is desirable but not essential. Hybrid working model, with time split between head office, factory visits, and home-based flexibility. Occasional UK/EU travel for supplier audits. A supportive team environment with exposure to diverse ingredients and product innovation. This is Fixed Term Contract for 12 Months 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
Oct 07, 2025
Full time
This is an excellent opportunity for recent graduates with a passion for food and an appetite for career development. We are working with a well-established and respected food manufacturer in Leicestershire, recognised for developing graduate talent and fast-tracking careers within the food industry. Two graduate positions are available for individuals who completed a UK food-related degree in 2024 or 2025. These roles provide the chance to join a supportive and structured NPD team, gaining hands-on experience, mentoring from experienced professionals and close collaboration with the product development team to support innovation and new product launches. The positions offer genuine variety, with involvement across key technical functions, projects and both retail and B2B accounts. Graduates will gain valuable exposure to different areas of the business, building strong foundations for a successful career in the sector. Applicants should hold a relevant UK degree in Food Science, Food Technology or a related discipline. A proactive approach, natural curiosity and enthusiasm for the food manufacturing industry are essential, along with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. To apply, please contact Nicola on (phone number removed) or email your CV to (url removed) Please note: The company is unable to support visa applications for these roles. Only candidates with the right to work in the UK can be considered. 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
Oct 07, 2025
Full time
Are you skilled at creating detailed and accurate food product specifications? Looking to advance your career with a leading food manufacturer? If so, we have an excellent opportunity for you! We are seeking a Specifications Technologist to join a thriving technical team in Derbyshire. In this key role, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining product specifications for B2B customers. Your expertise will ensure compliance with food safety regulations and meet customer expectations, playing a vital part in maintaining the company's reputation for excellence. To excel in this role, you'll need previous experience in writing B2B or retail specifications within the food industry. Attention to detail, a thorough understanding of industry standards and the ability to collaborate with internal teams like NPD, technical and commercial are essential. In return, you'll enjoy a competitive salary of up to 35,000, along with the flexibility to work from home two days a week. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with an industry-leading manufacturer and be part of a supportive and successful team. If you're ready to advance in your career, send your updated CV to Nicola at (url removed) or call (phone number removed) for further information. 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
Oct 07, 2025
Full time
My client, a well-established food and drink manufacturer, who is seeking an experienced Technical Manager to join their Senior Leadership Team. This is an exciting opportunity for a proven technical professional to play a key role in ensuring technical compliance, driving standards, and leading a dedicated team. As Technical Manager, you will: -Report directly to the Site General Manager and sit on the Senior Leadership Team. -Lead and manage the technical and quality departments. -Ensure that all site technical standards are adhered to at all times. -Maintain audit readiness across the site and lead external audits and customer visits. -Guarantee full compliance with retailer and customer standards. -Drive continuous improvement in food safety, quality, HACCP, and GMP. -Lead, motivate, and develop the technical team to deliver excellence. Requirements: -Proven experience as a Technical Manager within the food and drink industry. -Strong knowledge and hands-on experience of BRC standards. -Previous exposure to retailer standards and customer requirements. -Expertise in HACCP and GMP. -A track record of managing and developing high-performing teams. -Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to influence at all levels. Salary: 50,000 - 60,000 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)
Zest
Oct 07, 2025
Full time
We're working with an innovative and growing food manufacturing client based in Lincolnshire, who is seeking a talented Senior NPD Technologist to join their development team. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced NPD professional to take ownership of projects, lead factory trials, and play a key role in bringing new products to market in a fast-paced, hands-on environment. The Role: Manage NPD projects from concept through to launch, ensuring products are delivered on time and to customer requirements. Lead and support factory trials, working closely with operations and technical teams to ensure smooth scale-up into production. Problem-solve and troubleshoot process challenges to deliver commercially viable solutions. Build strong relationships with both internal teams and external customers, providing technical support and innovation expertise. What We're Looking For: Proven experience in New Product Development within a food manufacturing environment. A strong track record of running factory trials and scaling up new products. Practical problem-solving skills with a hands-on, proactive approach. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work cross-functionally. Why This Role? Opportunity to work with a forward-thinking manufacturer known for innovation and quality. A chance to lead exciting NPD projects and directly impact product success. Be part of a supportive and collaborative team environment. If you're a passionate NPD professional looking for your next step in Lincolnshire, we'd love to hear from you. 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
Oct 07, 2025
Full time
Are you ready to take the lead in crafting innovative, delicious products for some of the UK's top retailers and brands? We're on the hunt for a NPD Technologist to join our client's forward-thinking team, where your expertise will drive ground-breaking product innovation. This is a customer-facing role that blends creativity, technical skill, and strategic insight. You'll be the linchpin between customer collaboration and the creation of exceptional products, helping shape the future of the food industry. What you'll be doing: Leading end-to-end product development projects, from concept to commercialization. Collaborating with customers to understand their needs and deliver tailored, innovative solutions. Staying ahead of the curve by researching and interpreting market trends. Overseeing trials and ensuring products meet the highest quality and regulatory standards. Delivering polished proposals and presentations to customers and internal teams. What we're looking for: Proven experience in a food manufacturing or NPD environment. A passion for innovation, with a track record of developing standout products. Exceptional communication skills and confidence in customer-facing interactions. A proactive, solution-focused mindset with excellent project management abilities. Why join us? Be at the forefront of food innovation, working on exciting projects for leading retailers and brands. Collaborate with a talented, passionate team in a fast-paced environment. Make your mark on products that delight customers and shape industry trends. If you're a driven, creative professional with a love for food and innovation, this is your chance to step into a senior role with a company where your ideas will shine. 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
Oct 06, 2025
Contractor
Senior Brand Manager - 12-Month FTC Location: Cambridgeshire (Hybrid Working - minimum 3 days on-site) Contract Type: 12-Month Fixed Term Contract Sector: FMCG / Food & Beverage Are you a highly collaborative Senior Brand Manager with a passion for innovation, consumer-centricity, and a record of full accountability of building a strong innovation pipeline? A unique opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Brand Manager to join this manufacturing business on a 12-month FTC basis. It offers the chance to re-launch a key product range, drive growth in the protein drinks segment, and build an innovation pipeline aligned with the dynamic "on-the-go" breakfast occasion. You will be responsible for delivering the full brand plan - from strategy to execution - ensuring strong brand performance, effective budget control, and cross-functional alignment across the business. Key Responsibilities: - Lead the re-launch and execution of a breakfast drinks brand, building a robust 'on the go' innovation pipeline. - Drive growth in the protein drinks category through targeted marketing plans, consumer-led campaigns, and innovation. - Build a 24-month innovation pipeline grounded in insight and category trends, working with NPD and cross-functional teams from concept to launch. - Design, implement, and measure a 12-18-month brand plan to achieve KPIs and brand growth targets. - Full accountability for brand budget allocation, monitoring and control, ensuring resources are maximised and ROI is delivered. - Collaborate closely with Category, Sales, Finance, NPD, and Operations to align strategy and delivery. - Act as the face of the brand with key retail partners, presenting innovation plans, marketing campaigns, and performance updates. - Lead the execution of integrated campaigns across digital, PR, shopper, and experiential channels. About You: You're a confident and collaborative marketer with strong commercial acumen, a passion for consumer trends, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams to deliver real business results. You bring: - Proven experience in a brand management role within food / beverage industry. - A strong track record of product re-launches, innovation delivery, and performance management. - Excellent strategic thinking, communication, and stakeholder management skills. - Strong analytical capability - able to interpret data, generate insights, and turn them into actionable plans. - Comfortable being both strategic and hands-on - this is a role where you'll own the end-to-end brand journey. - Integrity - dealing with others in an honest manner, take accountability for actions, supporting company values and maintaining confidentiality. What's on Offer: - High-impact, strategic role on a brand with strong growth ambitions - Opportunity to own full brand responsibility and lead a major product re-launch - Hybrid working with a collaborative, cross-functional team - Competitive salary, benefits, and the chance to make a visible difference in 12 months If you're a brand leader ready to hit the ground running and make your mark in a dynamic and growing category, we'd love to hear from you. 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
Oct 06, 2025
Full time
Are you a technical leader with a passion for quality and a background in highly automated food manufacturing? We're recruiting for an experienced Technical Manager to join a fast-paced, high-volume production environment. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in drinks, dairy, or chilled/frozen foods (such as soups or sauces), looking to lead site-wide technical and compliance standards in a modern, automation-led facility. The Role: As Technical Manager, you'll take ownership of quality, food safety, hygiene, and compliance across the site. Reporting to the Group Quality Manager and working as part of the senior site leadership team, you'll lead the site's technical agenda-ensuring it not only meets external and internal standards but drives continuous improvement through process, systems, and culture. You'll work closely with cross-functional teams across operations, engineering, NPD and R&D to troubleshoot issues, embed standards, and enable smooth product launches. Key Responsibilities: Lead the technical and quality functions across the site, promoting a strong compliance and food safety culture. Oversee site technical standards including HACCP, BRC, GMP, and customer-specific requirements. Drive root cause analysis and resolution for quality, microbiology, and food safety issues. Lead audit readiness and manage site response to third-party, customer, and regulatory audits. Work cross-functionally to support process improvements, automation optimisation, and operational efficiency. Manage risk assessments, technical training, and development of team capability. Act as technical lead for new product introductions, site trials, and scale-up projects. Lead the HACCP team and own technical KPI reporting and governance. About You: Proven technical or quality leadership experience in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. Ideally from a highly automated background-drinks, dairy, soups/sauces or similar. In-depth understanding of BRC, HACCP, GMP, and relevant food legislation. Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels. Experience of working with cross-functional teams including operations, engineering, and NPD. Ideally degree-qualified in food science, microbiology, or a related discipline. What's on Offer: 65,000 - 70,000 salary A comprehensive benefits package A well-invested, modern site with strong backing A culture that supports ownership, accountability, and continuous improvement If you're looking to step into a senior technical role with genuine impact in a well-structured, automation-led food business-apply today. 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
Oct 04, 2025
Full time
Are you ready to step up from a Technologist role and take on more responsibility in a senior technical position? This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate food and drink professional to join a fast-paced, innovative business and play a key role in ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of our ready-to-drink (RTD) products. The Role As the Technical Manager, you will be the technical point of contact for our beverages portfolio, ensuring products meet the highest standards of safety, legality, and quality. You'll work closely with co-manufacturers and suppliers, using your knowledge of beverage processing to maintain standards, solve issues quickly, and support new product development. This is a hands-on, individual contributor role - perfect for someone looking to take the next step in their career and build on their technical expertise. Key Responsibilities: Act as the lead technical contact for beverage products, driving safety, quality, and compliance. Support and influence suppliers to continuously improve performance against KPIs. Apply strong knowledge of thermal processing and aseptic manufacturing to challenge and support co-manufacturers. Carry out supplier audits, product risk assessments, and ensure corrective actions are implemented. Provide technical input into NPD projects, identifying potential risks early in development. Attend factory trials and first productions to ensure consistency and compliance. Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver wider business objectives. What do you need? Proven experience in the beverages/drinks sector (essential). Strong technical knowledge of thermal processing and aseptic manufacturing. A background in food science, food technology, or a related discipline. Auditing and risk assessment expertise. Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to build strong supplier relationships. A proactive problem solver, able to adapt quickly and prioritise in a fast-moving environment. Why this role? This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who wants to step up into a more senior role, take ownership, and make a real impact on the quality, food safety and innovation of a growing beverage category. 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
Oct 04, 2025
Full time
Position: Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer Location: Cornwall (Commutable from Bodmin, Lostwithiel, St Austell, Looe, Truro, Newquay and surrounding areas) Salary: 44,000 + Enhanced Overtime Shift Pattern: Fixed Nightshift - No Weekends! (Weekly rotation between 3 and 4 shifts) Zest have partnered up with a growing and successful FMCG Manufacturer in the heart of Cornwall. We are seeking a Skilled Engineer to join the team. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a reputable and expanding company. This is a great opportunity if you are looking to get your weekends back and join a company that invests in you! The Role Carry out both preventative and reactive maintenance on production machinery. Take responsibility and carry out your own projects Ensuring the smooth operation of the production facilities. Diagnosing and resolving electrical and mechanical faults. Ensuring minimal downtime by efficiently managing breakdowns as well support. Collaborating with the production team to optimise equipment performance. Ensure that health and safety procedures are followed. Carry out site service maintenance when required. What We're Looking For A strong understanding in both Mechanical & Electrical Maintenance. Experience in an FMCG environment (preferred). Relevant qualifications (e.g., NVQ Level 3, City & Guilds, or equivalent). A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work under pressure. Flexibility to work rotating day and night shifts. Similar roles include electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, engineering technician, maintenance technician, maintenance engineer. To find out more, please click 'Apply' or contact George for a confidential discussion 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)
Zest
Oct 04, 2025
Full time
Picture this: it's a Saturday morning. The site is alive with energy, the hum of production lines filling the air. You walk the floor, greet your team, and see the pride they take in producing high-quality food that will end up on tables across the country. You know the plan is tight, but thanks to the preparation, coaching, and leadership you've instilled, your team is ready. You're not just managing production-you're driving excellence, safeguarding people, and shaping the future of a truly reputable food manufacturing brand. That's the life of a Weekend Production Shift Manager with this business. This is no ordinary production role. As a key member of the operations leadership team, you'll oversee a team of Team Leaders and production staff, ensuring that safety, quality, and efficiency remain at the heart of everything you do. You'll be a visible, hands-on leader-someone just as comfortable rolling up their sleeves on the line as they are analysing data, driving improvements, and coaching others to success. Your responsibilities will include: Leading, motivating, and developing a dedicated weekend production team. Driving safe working practices through robust processes and training. Managing labour and material budgets with a sharp eye on KPIs. Delivering high-quality, chilled food products on time, every time. Fostering a culture of pride, accountability, and continuous improvement. Collaborating cross-functionally with operations, engineering, and supply chain colleagues to keep everything running smoothly. Your impact will be measured by: Engaged, motivated teams who feel supported and valued. Strong operational performance across labour, waste, and quality. Improvements you help deliver to drive efficiency and innovation. What makes this role different? This is an exclusive opportunity with one of the most admired names in the food industry. They're growing, and this role is designed to give you a platform: whether you aspire to step into senior leadership or broaden your skills across operations, this company will give you the space and support to thrive. You won't be a cog in the wheel-you'll be a key voice, making a tangible impact and shaping the weekend production operation. What we're looking for: A proven production leader from the food manufacturing industry. Experience in managing budgets and driving operational improvements. Strong people leadership-engaging, coaching, and influencing at all levels. An analytical thinker with a calm, pragmatic approach to problem-solving. High energy, adaptable, with a strong quality focus and collaborative spirit. Why you'll love it here: Because this is a business that genuinely values its people. It's not just about numbers on a dashboard-it's about culture, care, and pride. You'll be trusted with responsibility, supported with development, and surrounded by a team who share the same values: respect, involvement, pride, and excitement. If you're ready to take the next step in your production management career-and you like the idea of making weekends count in a role where you'll have real autonomy and opportunity-then I'd love to hear from you. Apply today for a confidential conversation about this exclusive opportunity. 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)