Technical Compliance Manager

Technical Compliance Manager

Location: Maidstone, Kent
Salary: 40k - 48k
Hours: Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm

Our client is a market leader in the sourcing, production, and distribution of fresh produce to some of the UK's biggest retailers. Their success is built on strong values, responsible operations, and a commitment to developing exceptional people.

We're now looking for a driven Technical Compliance Manager to join the Group Responsible Sourcing team. This is a key role where you'll take ownership of compliance across diverse product categories, suppliers, and regions-helping to maintain the highest standards in food safety, ethical due diligence, and environmental responsibility.

If you thrive in a fast-paced technical environment, enjoy leading teams, and want to make a meaningful impact across supply chains, this role is for you.

What You'll Be Doing

As a Technical Compliance Manager, you will:

Lead & Develop the Compliance Function

• Manage and mentor the Technical Compliance team
• Set priorities, ensure high performance, and drive continuous improvement

Own Supplier Due Diligence & Approval

• Oversee supplier due diligence, onboarding, and approval
• Ensure accurate, timely data across internal systems and customer platforms
• Undertake supplier risk assessments and monitor compliance throughout supply periods

Ensure Robust Testing & Surveillance

• Oversee chemical surveillance testing for supplier arrivals
• Direct recall and traceability exercises to validate compliance systems

Champion Standards & Best Practice

• Maintain accurate approved supplier lists
• Develop and embed compliance procedures and internal guidance
• Provide clear compliance and sustainability KPI reporting to stakeholders

Collaborate Across the Business

• Work closely with Technical, Procurement, and Commercial teams
• Support customer audits and lead quarterly HACCP reviews

What You'll Bring

• Experience within fresh produce (ideal but not essential)
• Strong leadership skills with proven team management experience
• Degree in Food Science, Environmental Management, Environmental Science, or similar
• Excellent knowledge of Excel, Power BI, and PowerPoint
• High attention to detail and strong organisational/project management skills
• Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively at all levels
• A proactive, deadline-focused approach and commitment to high standards

Why Apply?

• Be part of a business that champions responsible sourcing
• Work alongside passionate teams across technical, commercial and procurement
• Influence compliance and sustainability across the global supply chain
• Enjoy a role with variety, impact, and leadership opportunity

If you're ready to make a difference and help shape the future of responsible sourcing in fresh produce, apply today.