Zest

Zest is exclusively recruiting for a long-established, award-winning food manufacturer seeking a proactive NPD Technologist to support product development from concept through to launch. This is a great opportunity to join a friendly, collaborative team and work on exciting new bakery innovations great national accounts. You will source ingredients and packaging, taking into account cost and minimum order quantities, while also completing nutritional and shelf-life testing, including Nutricalc. The role includes setting up new recipes, creating work instructions and preparing packaging details to support successful product launches. Strong communication is essential, as you will collaborate cross functionally with Technical, Production, Marketing, and engage with customers. You will also support audits, customer visits and various technical projects as needed. This opportunity will suit an NPD Technologist, who wants to get stuck in and feels confident managing multiple projects whilst working to tight deadlines. If you're seeking a new opportunity in the new year and have the right experience, contact us today for a confidential conversation please contact, Danielle Bailey on (phone number removed) or (url removed) Please note: This position is not able to sponsor at this time 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 well-established food manufacturer has an opportunity for an interim Commercial Manager to provide immediate support during a period of transition. This role will play a crucial part in maintaining and strengthening the relationship with a key retail partner-M&S-while the business recruits for a permanent hire. The successful candidate will ensure the account is carefully managed, communication remains seamless, and commercial activity continues to run smoothly. This interim position offers an exciting opportunity to step into a pivotal role, safeguard an important customer relationship, and help lay the groundwork for the team's future structure and capabilities. Key Responsibilities: -Take day-to-day ownership of the M&S account, ensuring it is fully supported and that communication is handled professionally and proactively. -Build strong working relationships with retail contacts and represent the business with confidence and credibility. -Deliver clear, persuasive presentations tailored to customer needs. -Partner closely with M&S to develop accurate forecasts, plan promotional cycles, and manage product costings. -Shape and deliver joint business plans that foster sustainable, profitable growth. -Lead pricing and commercial negotiations, maintaining strong margins and competitive positioning. -Work alongside the Commercial Executive to interpret category insights and market data, ensuring decisions are informed and commercially sound. -Collaborate effectively with internal teams-including marketing, supply chain, and product development-to guarantee smooth execution of customer initiatives. About You: This role requires a commercially focused self-starter with proven experience managing major retail accounts within food-ideally with prior involvement in M&S. The ideal candidate will be confident under pressure, quick to build trust with key stakeholders, and capable of stepping into a fast-moving environment and adding value from day one. Skills & Experience Required: -Strong commercial capability, including forecasting, cost management, and experience working with P&Ls. -Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence buyers and collaborate effectively with internal teams. -A proactive, solutions-focused approach and the confidence to take ownership of a high-profile retail account. This is a rare opportunity to make a meaningful impact during a business-critical period. The interim Commercial Manager will play an essential role in maintaining momentum with a major customer while also helping to shape the foundations of the commercial team for the future. It's a high-profile, rewarding assignment that offers visibility, responsibility, and the chance to influence positive change. If you are immediately available and fit the bill, please do send your CV 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)

At Zest, we don't just "do" recruitment - we transform careers and strengthen teams in one of the UK's most vital industries: Food Manufacturing. We've spent over 20 years building the most trusted recruitment brand in the sector, and now, we're looking for a Trainee Recruitment Consultant who's hungry to be the best. This is not a back-office role. You'll be on the frontlines - hunting, headhunting, and building relationships within Food Manufacturing's most in-demand professionals. What You'll Do - Build and nurture relationships with high-performing candidates in the food industry - Search across job boards, LinkedIn, internal CRM, referrals and social platforms to find the best talent - Conduct detailed phone and video interviews, qualifying candidates for live roles - Partner with Senior consultants to help fill high-priority vacancies - Support candidates throughout the process - coaching for interviews, negotiating offers, and guiding through resignations - Record candidate insights with precision in our CRM, helping us maintain our legendary reputation for detail and quality Why This Role is a Launchpad - 250 per placement on your director's desk - with potential to increase as you grow - Industry-leading training and mentoring - we've developed some of the UK's best recruiters in-house - After 12 months, you'll be ready to step up into a Consultant role - managing your own clients and deals - Be part of a team that celebrates success: past summer parties in Ibiza, Friday drinks, quarterly lunch clubs, and much more - Hybrid working, private healthcare, pension, birthdays off, and gym membership - Work in our bright, open-plan Stamford HQ, overlooking the meadows - voted one of the happiest places to live in the UK What We're Looking For - A natural people-person: you love asking questions, listening, and learning about others - Grit, determination, and a work ethic to match - recruitment isn't easy, but it's worth it - Excellent communication: on the phone, on email, and face-to-face - Someone who thrives in a high-performance environment and wants to fast-track their career - Bonus if you've worked in retail, customer service, sales or call centres - but attitude is everything Zest's Promise We'll train you, support you, challenge you, and celebrate you. You'll be joining a business with a clear mission to be the best recruitment company you'll ever work with or for. And we're not slowing down. If you're ready to launch an exciting career in recruitment and be part of a company that values your potential, Zest is the perfect place for you. Submit your CV to Lucy at (url removed) - and let's embark on this thrilling journey together. 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 an Operations Shift Manager, Manufacturing Manager or Senior Production Manager? This role is a 4 on 3 off days only position. We are currently working with a multi-site, blue chip food manufacturer who are looking for an Operations Shift Manager to join the team. The responsibilities of the role will include overseeing full factory Operations, ensuring quality and cost standards are met, click apply for full job details

A well-established UK food business supplying major retailers is seeking an experienced and people focused Quality Assurance and Operations Lead to lead a large on-site Quality team and ensure products consistently meet the highest standards of food safety, legality, and retailer compliance. This is a key leadership position, responsible for managing a substantial Quality team across the site. While strong technical knowledge of food safety standards is essential, this role is primarily about people leadership, performance management, and developing a strong quality culture throughout the business. You will drive high standards, support continuous improvement, and work collaboratively with production, operations, technical, and supply chain teams to maintain and improve site performance. Key Responsibilities: Lead, manage, and develop a large Quality team (20+ staff), ensuring strong performance, engagement, and capability development. Maintain and continuously improve the site's food safety and quality systems in line with BRC, HACCP, legal, and retailer requirements. Oversee internal and external audits, ensuring robust corrective and preventative actions. Lead investigations into non-conformances and drive root cause and preventative measures. Work collaboratively with production and other site functions to improve results and implement best practice. Deliver coaching and training to support a strong and sustainable quality culture. Champion continuous improvement initiatives across the site. What You'll Need: Proven experience managing sizeable Quality teams in food manufacturing, ideally 20+ reports or across multiple shifts. Strong working knowledge of BRC, HACCP, food safety legislation, and retailer expectations. A confident leader able to inspire teams, manage performance, and build skills and accountability. Excellent communicator who works well cross-functionally and drives solutions, not just reports problems. Highly organised, proactive, and committed to continuous improvement and operational excellence. 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)

With a real commitment to build and shape this team for the future, this well-established business is looking for a Commercial Manager with strong retail experience (ideally M&S) to hit the ground running and take ownership for its M&S account. Looking to strengthen its commercial capability as it continues to grow, this role offers a fantastic chance to take full ownership of key retail accounts and drive commercial strategy within a high energy, collaborative environment. Key Responsibilities -Assume full responsibility for a portfolio of retail customers, cultivating strong partnerships and delivering compelling, tailored presentations. -Work closely with retail partners to build accurate volume forecasts, plan promotional activity, and manage product costings. -Create and execute joint business plans that support revenue targets and sustainable growth. -Lead commercial negotiations to secure optimal pricing and protect product profitability. -Collaborate with the Commercial Executive to interpret market and category data, enabling insightful reporting and informed decision-making. -Coordinate effectively with cross-functional teams-such as marketing and product development-to ensure alignment and seamless delivery of customer initiatives. The successful candidate will be a confident, proactive Commercial Manager with a strong background managing retail accounts in the FMCG (ideally food) sector. You will be adept at building long-lasting customer relationships and comfortable operating in a fast-paced, commercially driven environment. Skills & Qualifications -Strong commercial acumen, including numerical proficiency, P&L management experience, and accurate forecasting capabilities. -Exceptional verbal and written communication skills to influence retail buyers, collaborate internally, and maintain positive customer partnerships. With a commitment to re-shape and re-build this team for success, this role is a fabulous opportunity to be part of the transformation and through its success propel your career forward in a rewarding role. 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 working with a food manufacturing business to recruit an experienced technical professional. This role will be responsible for leading food safety, quality, hygiene, and compliance on site, ensuring that products meet legal, customer, and internal standards. About the Role: This position provides the opportunity to work closely with senior teams, customers, and regulatory bodies. Key responsibilities include: Leading technical, quality, and hygiene teams to deliver strong food safety and quality standards. Ensuring quality management systems are effective, maintained, and continually improved. Managing internal and external audits, with timely completion of corrective actions. Monitoring performance metrics and using data to support improvement plans. Ensuring effective systems for hygiene and pest control are in place and managed proactively. Presenting technical performance in senior meetings and supporting wider business decisions. We are interested in hearing from Technical professionals with: Experience in technical leadership within food manufacturing. Strong working knowledge of food legislation, customer codes of practice, and BRC or equivalent standards. A track record of managing audits and maintaining high levels of compliance. Good communication skills with the ability to work effectively at different levels. Experience in developing teams and supporting skill growth. Relevant qualifications such as a food science degree, HACCP Level 4, Lead Auditor certification, or IOSH Managing Safely would be beneficial. 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 currently working with a well established, multi-site food manufacturer who are looking for a Senior Production Manager to join the team on a Mon-Fri days hours. This role would suit an Operations Manager/Manufacturing Manager or an experienced Production Manager looking for their next step up into senior management. This role will be responsible for leading large teams, delivering and outputting high efficiency, quality & food safety standards and cost saving where possible. You will need to have a drive for CI and modern manufacturing standards across a fast paced, high volume site. Drive H&S, support internal & external audits, coach and develop team leaders and set up a progressive culture. You will need to have proven leadership within a fast paced, high volume food manufacturer, ideally overseeing teams of (Apply online only)+ reports and confidence to motivate, challenge and desire to expand the factories capabilities. If you feel you match the above criteria and wish to apply for this great opportunity, please contact Sam on (phone number removed) or send your CV to (url removed) directly. 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 ready to dive into the heart of innovation and take charge in scaling up new products within a dynamic, fast-paced environment? We're seeking a passionate Senior Process Technologist who can bring their expertise to a flourishing business. As a Senior Process Technologist, you'll be at the forefront of the production processes. Your role will involve hands-on process development, spearheading trials, and solving complex challenges as we bring our latest creations to life in the factory. What You'll Do: Lead the scaling up of new products, ensuring seamless integration into our production line. Conduct trials and analyse results to optimize processes and enhance efficiency. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot issues and implement effective solutions. Required Skills and Experience: Proven hands-on experience in process development within a manufacturing setting. Demonstrated success in scaling up new products. Strong problem-solving abilities and adaptability in a dynamic environment. Excellent communication and collaboration skills. Opportunity to work with a forward-thinking team dedicated to innovation. Room for professional growth and development in a supportive environment. Chance to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the success of exciting projects. 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 Cambridgeshire! 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)

A skilled food development expert with a passion for crafting exceptional products and transforming ideas into high-quality, commercially successful innovations will find an exclusive opportunity with our client in Buckinghamshire. They are seeking a Senior Development Technologist to join their team and contribute to the creation of standout, market-ready products. This is a hands-on role for an experienced NPD professional within food manufacturing-someone who can blend creativity with commercial awareness in a fast-paced production environment. You will need a minimum of 2 years experience in NPD in food manufacturing. Experience working directly with customers would be a significant advantage, as you'll contribute to shaping standout products tailored to their needs. A full UK driving licence is essential. As part of this progressive and highly collaborative business, you'll join a close-knit team where your insight, vision and technical expertise will have genuine impact. With a competitive salary of circa 40,000, this is a rare chance to elevate your career and play a key role in delivering exceptional new product launches. If you're ready to advance your career with a company that values innovation and excellence, contact Nicola on (phone number removed) for a confidential discussion or email 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)

Are you passionate about food and excited by innovation? We're looking for a Commercial Assistant/Executive to join a successful, growing value added food ingredients company. This company transforms vegetables into bold, exciting ingredients that inspire menus across the food service and manufacturing sectors. If you're a driven and commercially-savvy professional with a love for food and relationship-building, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. This position is well-suited to someone who enjoys variety, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is eager to build a strong foundation in commercial operations. About the role You will provide vital administrative, analytical, and customer support to ensure the commercial function operates effectively. You will work closely with teams across the organisation to maintain accurate information, share insights, and contribute to delivering an exceptional customer experience. Day-to-day responsibilities will range from coordinating key commercial processes and preparing clear, insightful reports to assisting with customer presentations and supporting new product launches. As your skills develop, you will have the opportunity to take full ownership of new customer accounts and directly contribute to the company's commercial success. Key responsibilities -Providing administrative and commercial support to the sales team, including quotes, orders, forecasts, and contract management. -Acting as a primary point of contact for customer queries and building strong, professional relationships. -Supporting internal forecasting and aligning commercial plans with supply chain and NPD teams. -Assisting with marketing activities, product launches, and the preparation of customer-facing presentations. -Gathering and sharing market insights to support the Marketing team. -Generating New Line Forms and working cross-functionally to align forecasts and manage raw material risk for new products. -Attending internal meetings and supporting the coordination of key information for upcoming customer launches. -Assisting Account Managers and the NPD team with the creation of presentations and preparation for customer meetings. -Supporting day-to-day account management, including pricing queries, availability issues, and ad hoc requests. -Assisting with onsite and offsite customer visits. -Serving as the administrative point of contact when onboarding new customers. About you: -Working fully on-site you will be highly motivated, with a proactive, positive approach to work. -You'll have a love of food coupled with real commercial acumen, creative thinking and the sparkle to succeed. -This role is for someone who thrives on being busy and a wide variety of work. -Ideally, you will have at least a year of sales experience in FMCG and will be a graduate. This role offers excellent prospects for career development within a collaborative environment, with exposure to sales, marketing, supply chain, and NPD. Tailored training and ongoing development will be provided to help you progress. 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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)