Zest

Position: Business Development Manager Location: Field-Based - managing the Cotswolds area. Salary: c 35,000 - 38,000 per annum (DOE) + Generous Bonus Scheme Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a results-driven and customer-focused Business Development Manager to join a well-established and expanding field sales team. With ambitious growth plans and the ability to provide exceptional service, this role is ideal for a motivated individual with a strong background in sales, account management, and new business development-particularly from a food service business where you may have sold across, hospitality, education, healthcare and care homes. Key Responsibilities: -Manage and grow a portfolio of existing accounts within a defined geographical area -Identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities to increase sales and margin -Build and maintain strong customer relationships through regular engagement and support -Collaborate with internal departments and suppliers to enhance product knowledge and service delivery -Monitor market trends and identify opportunities to maximise profitability -Ensure all administrative and reporting requirements are completed accurately and within deadlines Key Requirements: -Proven experience in a similar business development or field sales role, ideally within the foodservice industry. -Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence at all levels -Excellent organisational skills, with a proactive and strategic approach to sales -Strong commercial awareness and customer-centric mindset -Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel (training will be provided for internal systems) -Self-motivated, enthusiastic, and capable of working independently -Living ideally in the Cotswolds region. What's on Offer: -Competitive salary based on experience -Uncapped bonus scheme linked to performance -Company car, laptop, and mobile phone -Company pension and life insurance -Staff discount and free food options -Ongoing training and professional development opportunities This is a field-based position requiring regular travel within a designated area, along with attendance at monthly team meetings at a central location. If you are a proactive sales professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional service, we would 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 ready to make your mark with one of the most prestigious names in the industry? We're on the hunt for a Senior Process Technologist to join our elite team in a high-impact, customer-facing role. This is your opportunity to work directly with the UK's top-tier retailers and contribute to the creation of exceptional products. This role is perfect for someone eager to lead from the front. You'll drive process innovation, manage a talented team of two, and play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality products from a process perspective. Your hands-on process experience and strategic vision will help shape the future of our offerings while streamlining processes, optimizing performance and ensuring compliance with food safety standards. As a Senior Process Technologist, you'll work closely with some of the biggest names in retail, building and maintaining strong relationships that will be key to the successful delivery of projects. Your ability to collaborate effectively will be matched only by your passion for continuous improvement and driving operational excellence. We're looking for someone with a proven track record in working in a concept to launch position within food manufacturing in the UK, you maybe a Process Technologist, Development Technologist looking to step up or currently working at a senior level. Call Nicola for a confidential chat at (phone number removed) or email your CV (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 experienced in maintaining food quality systems and managing supplier compliance? We are looking to speak a detail-driven Technical Assistant to support the Technical Manager in ensuring food safety, compliance and standards are consistently upheld across their supply base. This role is ideal for someone who has worked in a technical support, quality assurance, or technical administration role within the food sector. You'll be responsible for assisting with internal and third-party audits, supplier approval documentation and helping to ensure all food products meet the required legal, safety and customer standards. Key Responsibilities Provide technical support to suppliers, customers, and the internal sales team. Assist with supplier approval processes, both during onboarding and ongoing monitoring. Monitor food safety alerts and communicate relevant issues. Conduct traceability tests and support product investigations. Manage customer complaints and non-conformances, investigating root causes and ensuring effective corrective actions. Help maintain the company's Quality Management System, including BRCGS and Soil Association Organic documentation. Maintain up-to-date and accurate product specifications in line with food industry standards. Support internal audits and compliance checks, contributing to continuous improvement initiatives. Ensure all activities align with food safety, regulatory, and ethical standards. About You A degree in Food Science (or a related discipline). Additional qualifications such as HACCP Level 3, legal labelling, and knowledge of UK/EU food standards are desirable. Previous experience in a technical or quality assurance role within the food industry. Strong understanding of BRC, HACCP, and food safety legislation. Experience with audits, non-conformances, and technical documentation. This is a great opportunity to join a well-established business with strong supplier and customer relationships, where you can apply your technical expertise in a collaborative and supportive environment. 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)

Job Title: Quality Manager Location: East Midlands Salary: 45,000 - 55,000 Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent Our client, a leading business in the food and drink industry, is looking for a dedicated and hands-on Quality Manager to join their team and drive continuous improvement across site. About the Role: Reporting directly to the Technical Manager, this is a pivotal role that bridges the gap between technical and quality functions. You'll be responsible for leading the Quality Assurance team across your shift, ensuring best-in-class food safety and quality standards, and deputising for the Technical Manager when required. Key Responsibilities: -Lead and manage the QA team to deliver excellence across food safety and product quality. -Own and deliver the internal audit schedule; support and prepare for external audits (including BRC and customer audits). -Champion food safety and quality improvement initiatives site-wide. -Work closely with the Technical, NPD, and Operations teams to ensure alignment and consistency. -Support with customer visits and drive retailer standards across the site. -Be a key player in root cause analysis, non-conformance management, and continuous improvement activities. Requirements: -Proven experience in a similar Quality Manager role within the food manufacturing industry. -Strong working knowledge of BRCGS and HACCP standards. -Experience working with major UK retailers - this is essential. -Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and motivate a team. -Confident, proactive, and collaborative communication style with cross-functional teams. Salary: 45,0000 - 55,000 (Dependent on Experience) 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)

A well-established and rapidly growing business within the food and drink manufacturing sector whose site plays a vital role in supplying high-quality, safe products across a broad network. They have new role for Quality Control Manager to lead a laboratory-based team and ensure ongoing compliance with internal and external quality standards. As the Quality Control Manager, you will oversee all aspects of laboratory and testing operations on site. This includes managing a team, maintaining third party accreditation, delivering testing capabilities aligned with global quality standards, and driving a culture of continuous improvement. You will work cross-functionally with Quality Assurance, Production, Technical, and Operational stakeholders to deliver consistent product quality and support broader business goals. Key Responsibilities: Lead and develop a team of laboratory technicians and analysts. Oversee technical operations, method validation, and routine analysis. Maintain accreditation and compliance with industry and internal standards. Manage analytical equipment, calibration, and troubleshooting. Ensure delivery of KPIs, root cause investigations, and improvement actions. Own and manage departmental budgets, including consumables and CAPEX. Support site-wide audits, projects, and stakeholder requirements. Drive a continuous improvement culture using lean manufacturing principles. About You: Proven experience in a quality or laboratory leadership role, ideally within food, FMCG, or pharmaceutical manufacturing. Scientific degree or equivalent technical experience. Strong knowledge of analytical methods, ISO/FDA standards, and equipment. Experience managing third party accreditations. Comfortable managing performance, training, and development for teams. Familiar with quality systems (LIMS, SAP), reporting tools, and regulatory audits. Strong communicator with an analytical, detail-focused mindset. Why Apply? Join a growing business with strong values and a track record of success. Lead a key team with real influence on quality strategy and performance. Gain exposure to a variety of functions and project opportunities. Clear development pathway within a forward-thinking technical team. 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)

We're working with an innovative and fast-growing manufacturer based in Buckinghamshire, who is looking to recruit a Process Development Manager to join their development team. This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on process professional to lead the development and scale-up of new products, run factory trials, and solve complex challenges in a fast-paced production environment. The Role: Own and lead process development projects from concept through to launch. Manage scale-up activities and oversee factory trials to ensure successful product implementation. Troubleshoot and resolve process-related issues in collaboration with cross-functional teams. Continuously improve production efficiency and product quality through process optimisation. What We're Looking For: Strong hands-on experience in process development within a food or FMCG manufacturing environment. Proven track record of scaling up new products in a factory setting. Excellent problem-solving skills and a proactive, solutions-focused mindset. Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to influence across departments. Why This Role? Join a forward-thinking business at a pivotal stage of growth. Work in a collaborative and supportive environment where innovation is encouraged. Be part of a company that values practical expertise and offers real opportunities to make an impact. If you're ready to take the next step in your process development career and want to work with a progressive manufacturer in Buckinghamshire, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now to learn more about this exciting 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)

We're recruiting on behalf of a well-established and growing food manufacturing business that supplies high-quality products to some of the UK's best-known food businesses. Due to ongoing investment and site development, we are looking for a Senior QA to join their technical team. This is an excellent opportunity for a quality-focused individual ready to take the next step - ideal for someone operating at a Senior QA Auditor or near a QA Team Leader level but not currently managing a team. You'll act as a key technical point of contact on shift, supporting production teams and upholding food safety, product integrity, and quality standards across site. This factory-focused role (approx. 70% factory / 30% office-based) will see you taking ownership of daily QA activities, conducting inspections and audits, resolving quality issues, and contributing to customer standards compliance. You'll work closely with QA leadership, but be trusted to act independently, using your experience to make decisions and lead investigations where needed. Key Responsibilities Carry out product quality checks, QDA sessions, and end-of-life assessments. Monitor compliance with food safety and quality standards, specifications, and procedures. Conduct GMP, hygiene, and traceability audits, including follow-up of actions. Investigate and report on customer complaints, non-conformances, and quality incidents. Manage product release and quarantine processes in SAP. Complete swabbing, sampling, label and specification checks, and equipment calibration. Support audit readiness for BRC, customer, and internal standards. Generate reports on quality metrics and drive continuous improvement. Train and support production colleagues on quality and food safety practices. What You'll Need: Qualifications: Food-related qualification or relevant experience. HACCP Level 3 and Food Safety Level 3 (essential). Internal Auditor training (desirable). Root Cause Analysis training (preferred but not essential). Experience: Significant QA experience within food manufacturing, ideally chilled or ambient FMCG. Confident auditing skills and a good understanding of QMS and food legislation. Experience working with specifications, traceability systems, and problem-solving tools. Comfortable using systems such as Excel, Word, SAP, and LIMS. This role is not eligible for sponsorship. Candidates must have full right to work in the UK with no current or future restrictions. 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 career-driven Technical or Quality professional ready to take the next step? We're recruiting on behalf of a well-established food manufacturer in the East Midlands, known for producing a wide range of high-quality products for major UK customers. They're now looking to appoint an Assistant Technical Manager-a key hire that sits at the heart of the site's Technical team and forms part of the business's succession planning. This position reports directly to the Senior Technical Manager and comes with a clear development path into a Technical Manager role. What makes this opportunity stand out? You'll be joining the flagship site of a well-invested food group, producing a wide variety of high-quality products for major UK customers. You'll lead and support site-wide food safety and quality systems, while also managing key relationships with customers and internal stakeholders. The business is focused on internal development and ready to invest in someone who wants to take the next step. What You'll Be Doing: Lead and develop the QA team, building capability and driving smart working practices. Own and maintain the site-specific Quality Management System (HACCP, TACCP, allergen management, internal audits, non-conformance, etc.). Represent the site during customer audits and confidently manage technical relationships. Support the NPD process, attending factory trials and launches to ensure a smooth transition into production. Monitor quality KPIs and complaints, identifying trends and implementing effective improvements. Collaborate across departments to embed a strong food safety and quality culture. What you'll need: Experience in food manufacturing technical/QA roles, with strong knowledge of BRCGS and retailer COPs. Strong working knowledge of BRCGS, food safety legislation, and retailer COPs. Experience managing or developing a QA team. HACCP Level 3, TACCP trained, and ideally a Food Science degree. Confident communicator who enjoys customer interaction and team development. Ambitious, curious, and keen to grow into a Technical Manager 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)

Quality Assurance Professional - Food Manufacturing Location: Southampton Contract Type: Full-Time Competitive Salary + Benefits Zest are working with a highly respected food manufacturer that are seeking a dedicated Quality Assurance Professional to join their technical team. The Role: You will be instrumental in ensuring all products are safe, legal, and manufactured to the highest quality standards. With a strong focus on continuous improvement, you will drive compliance, investigate non-conformance, and support both internal systems and customer requirements through a proactive quality culture. Key Responsibilities Include: Maintaining compliance with customer COPs, internal systems (HACCP, QMS), and all relevant legislation. Conducting internal audits, investigations, and compliance gap analyses. Supporting new product launches and ensuring all associated quality documentation is in place. Participating in customer audits and assisting in the close-out of non-conformances. Leading or supporting complaint reduction initiatives and ensuring KPI targets are met. Inspecting raw materials, printed packaging, and finished goods to ensure standards are met. Active member of the HACCP team, contributing to shelf-life evaluations, product trials, and taste panels. Experience & Qualifications: Proven experience in food manufacturing QA roles. HACCP Level 2 (Level 3 desirable) and Food Safety Level 3. Internal Audit qualification (essential). Familiarity with industry platforms such as Muddy Boots, EQMS, Hamilton Grant, SAP. Strong communication skills and a hands-on, detail-focused approach. Why Join? Be part of a progressive, quality-driven environment where your input truly matters. Gain exposure to major retailers and high-profile product lines. Opportunity to contribute to meaningful change and continuous improvement initiatives. 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)

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and proactive Group Quality Systems & Hygiene Manager to join a leading FMCG business. In this key role, you'll partner with site leadership teams to drive improvements in hygiene, food safety, and quality systems across group manufacturing sites. You will work closely with site Quality Managers to ensure high standards are maintained, audited, and improved in line with industry best practices. This role is hands-on, strategic, and influential, offering the chance to make a tangible impact across the business. Key Responsibilities: Develop and implement group-wide hygiene and GMP standards in collaboration with senior stakeholders. Lead site hygiene audits and microbiological investigations, working cross-functionally with site teams, contractors, and R&D. Coach, train, and support operational teams to embed robust hygiene and food safety culture across all sites. Identify and drive improvements in quality systems and hygiene practices, ensuring they are future-fit and compliant. Support internal and external audits and help sites maintain readiness for third-party inspections and certifications. Contribute to the design and implementation of new equipment and processes with a hygiene-first approach. Provide guidance during complaint investigations and act as delegate for the Head of Quality when required. We're looking for someone with: A relevant degree (or equivalent experience) and a strong track record in food safety, hygiene, and quality systems within FMCG, ideally food or drink manufacturing. In-depth knowledge of GFSI standards, hygiene and cleaning processes (CIP/COP), microbiology, and relevant legislation. A collaborative, people-focused approach to influencing change through coaching and training. Strong communication skills and experience working across multiple sites or functions. Experience with microbiological standards and testing methods is desirable. Proficiency with digital platforms This is a Fixed Term Contract role. This role offers the chance to shape and elevate hygiene and quality standards across a complex manufacturing group. If you're passionate about driving excellence and making a real impact, 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)

Multi-Skilled Engineer - 46,000 + Bonus Full-time Mon-Fri 10:30-19:00 Overtime Available Commutable from: Rugby, Northampton, Banbury, Kettering, Wellingborough, Towcester, Market Harborough A great opportunity for a multi-skilled engineer to join a small, supportive team in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. This role covers a mix of planned and reactive maintenance, with involvement in site improvement projects. Key Responsibilities: Carry out inspections and PPM tasks (recorded via CMS) Diagnose and repair faults across a range of equipment (mechanical/electrical) Maintain motors, pumps, conveyors, packaging and cleaning systems Electrical fault finding, including emergency lighting and control systems General site and utilities maintenance, including support for contractors Contribute to 5S, RCA, 5 Whys, and other CI initiatives Support production with machine care and basic maintenance Adhere to H&S, food safety, and quality standards Requirements: Time-served or qualified engineer 17th/18th Edition Strong electrical and mechanical skills Experience in food or FMCG preferred Self-motivated, detail-focused, and flexible Package: 46,000 per year Bonus scheme Overtime available Company pension On-site parking Staff discounts Company events A stable, hands-on role with clear opportunities to make an impact. 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: Planning Engineer Location: Poole Salary: 42,000 per annum Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am-5pm Are you an organised, proactive engineer ready to take your planning skills to the next level? We're looking for a Planning Engineer to join a friendly and forward-thinking team in Poole. You'll play a key role in keeping our operations running smoothly - from managing maintenance schedules to supporting data-driven decisions that boost reliability. This is more than just a planning role, it's a chance to shape the heartbeat of the site. Responsibilities Plan and Coordinate: You'll take ownership of all planned maintenance activities, ensuring everything runs on time and to standard. Optimise Workflow: Manage and develop our CMMS system so that information flows smoothly and efficiently across the team. Prioritise with Purpose: Collaborate with internal teams to align maintenance priorities with operational needs. Champion Reliability: Support reliability-centred maintenance (RCM), using root cause analysis and continuous improvement methods to reduce downtime. Lead on Safety and Standards: Be a safety-first mindset leader, ensuring risk assessments, compliance, and best practices are consistently applied. What we are looking for A qualification in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (degree, HND, HNC, or equivalent apprenticeship) 2+ years' experience in a food manufacturing or fast-paced industrial environment Strong experience with CMMS systems and maintenance planning Confident understanding of RCM, FMEA, and Root Cause Analysis A data-driven and improvement-focused approach Excellent communication and collaboration skills What's in it for You Monday to Friday schedule - no weekends Career development through formal and informal training opportunities Two volunteering days per year to support causes you care about Access to an online benefits platform, with discounts on high-street and online retailers Wellbeing support including free 24/7 access to financial, emotional, and practical guidance Discounted gym memberships, online workout hub, and health initiatives For more information on the position, contact George 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)

Are you a technical leader with a passion for quality and a background in highly automated food manufacturing? We're recruiting for an experienced Senior Quality Manager / 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 a CI Manager, CI Lead, OPEX Manager or even a Production Manager/Operations Manager with hands on CI/Lean project experience? We are currently working with a well-established, well renowned brand within the food manufacturing industry who are looking for a CI Manager to join the management team. The role is Mon - Fri office with flexibility around start and finish times. You will be responsible for H&S, Food safety, leadership and collaboration across all departments, manufacturing excellence, CI projects, leading improvement teams, data and analysis, implementation of CI tools and techniques and people management. A six-sigma belt would be a preference but we are happy to look at someone with hands on project experience, including leading projects directly. To be successful in this role you will need to be able to communicate with all levels of staff, from Director to operative, a focus on developing people, able to build strong relationships across site, able to make tough decisions, level headed during challenging times and someone who can lead by example. 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)

Exciting times for a growing food manufacturing business seeking a talented Food Safety & Quality Officer to take ownership of a newly created technical position. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a strong foundation in food safety and quality, looking to apply their technical flair, creativity, and drive for improvement. The building blocks are in place, and the right person will have the chance to shape the role and potentially evolve it into a future Quality Manager position. In this role, you'll support the Senior Technical Manager in maintaining and improving food safety systems, ensuring compliance with customer, legislative, and third-party standards (including BRCGS). You'll take ownership of internal audits, supplier assurance, hygiene documentation, GMP verification, and product specifications, playing a key role in ensuring high standards across the business. Key Responsibilities: Lead internal audits and manage corrective actions Maintain and improve the Quality Management System and SOPs Oversee allergen controls, swab testing, and product sampling Manage supplier documentation, raw material specifications, and chain of custody Support complaint investigations and drive root cause analysis Ensure compliance with HACCP, export documentation, and customer expectations Provide guidance to the hygiene team to enhance food safety standards Work with NPD and Supply Chain teams to support new launches and technical compliance About You: Degree in Food Science, Food Technology or related discipline Experience in food manufacturing, preferably within a technical/QA function Knowledge of BRCGS standards, HACCP, food safety and quality systems Detail-oriented with strong organisation and communication skills Holds a Food Safety or HACCP qualification This is an excellent opportunity to join a progressive technical team in a varied and impactful role. No sponsorship offered; must have full unrestricted right to work UK 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 rare opportunity to take on this newly created role within this bakery channel with serious growth potential, in a market-leading bakery ingredients business. This is not just a job-it's a career-defining move. For a commercial leader with a strong bakery background and upward career momentum, this role offers the opportunity to build, lead and shape a critical growth channel within a highly respected, values-driven food business. This global business has unlocked new capability and market access, particularly within a specific bakery channel-and this role is pivotal to maximising that opportunity. With a five-year plan in place and strong investment backing, the ambition is clear: double revenue across this channel. This role will lead the commercial strategy and execution to achieve it. What You'll Do -You'll hit the ground running, taking full ownership of this channel, leading both strategy and hands-on delivery - Develop and execute commercial plans to grow the portfolios in this segment - Drive commercial and technical engagement with customers-identifying needs, proposing value-added solutions, and ensuring long-term partnerships - Manage relationships across the businesses to drive projects per customer and by product to a successful outcome - Lead a team, bringing focus, energy, and high-performance standards - Act as a key link between the recently acquired business, the parent company, and the evolving strategy for growth. - Report on and deliver commercial outcomes-EBIT, growth targets, account development-and represent this channel at senior leadership level What You'll Bring Proven success in B2B sales in the bakery industry. A strong mix of commercial drive and technical understanding-able to spot opportunities and back them with substance High-level relationship-building skills An ability to build the plan, not just follow one and someone who truly leads by example Gravitas, ambition, and the ability to both think strategically and operate at pace The hunger and humility to be out in market, not behind a desk Why This Role? -It's new, so you'll shape it. Not inherit it. -You'll build a team and a legacy-within a business that's investing hard in this channel - It's a home-working role where you will be expected to spend the majority of your time out building relationships and leading from the front. - The channel is full of potential, with existing capability, capacity, and customers-just not yet fully realised -If you're ambitious, commercially sharp, and know how to speak the language of bakery customers this is your chance to lead from the front, build a channel, and shape a business. 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 hands-on leader in food manufacturing, ready to make your mark in a business that's scaling rapidly and innovating every day? We're excited to be exclusively representing a dynamic and forward-thinking food manufacturer based in the Buckinghamshire area. This BRCGS AA-rated business is growing rapidly - crafting exceptional ready-to-eat products under their own growing brand and for leading retailers across the UK. Agile, ambitious, and proud of their people-first culture, they're now looking for a Production Manager to join their journey and lead operations on the factory floor. If you're motivated by quality, ownership, and the opportunity to grow with a business that's genuinely going places - this could be the step-change you're looking for. Why This Opportunity? Be a Key Player in Growth - You'll be working directly with the Managing Director to drive production and operational improvements as the business scales. Lead a High-Performing Team - Bring leadership, clarity and motivation to a growing team in a close-knit manufacturing environment. See Your Impact Daily - Influence real outcomes in quality, scheduling, safety and team performance - and watch your contribution make a difference. Shape the Future - This is a business where processes are being shaped, not inherited. Your ideas will be heard, valued, and implemented. Your Responsibilities Will Include: Planning & Scheduling: Manage daily and weekly production plans, balancing efficiency with allergen controls and tight customer deadlines. People Leadership: Supervise, train and motivate a team of production operatives, promoting a culture of ownership, safety and positivity. Stock & Dispatch Oversight: Maintain control over raw material intake, stock levels, and ensure timely despatch of finished goods. Food Safety & Compliance: Uphold BRCGS, HACCP, and customer standards, supporting audit readiness and continuous improvement. Technical & H&S: Conduct internal audits, maintain GMP standards, lead site health and safety initiatives and ensure legal compliance. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Be the vital link between production, logistics, technical and commercial teams - driving alignment and delivery. What You'll Bring: Proven leadership experience within a food manufacturing environment - whether as a Production Manager, Shift Manager or equivalent. A confident, calm and solution-driven mindset - able to think fast and act with clarity. Strong knowledge of food safety, quality systems, and factory operations. Excellent communication skills and the ability to coach, support and lead a team in a fast-moving, hands-on setting. A genuine passion for continuous improvement and growing with a business that rewards initiative and reliability. Company Culture Snapshot: Down-to-Earth & Hardworking - This is a close-knit team that believes in integrity, showing up, and delivering excellence. Innovative & Growth-Focused - New processes, new people, new ideas - they're not afraid of change; they embrace it. People First - You'll be working shoulder-to-shoulder with the MD and wider team. Every role matters here. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and take the next big step in your food manufacturing career, I'd love to hear from you. Contact: Shaf Islam (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 a Production Manager, Manufacturing Manager or a Senior Shift Manager with experience in a fast paced, high volume environment? We are currently working with a market leading, multi-site food manufacturer that are looking for a Production Manager to join the team on a Mon-Fri 3pm-Midnight shift. The key responsibilities will be leading the whole shift, driving learning, development and mentoring. You will lead audits, customer visits and implement effective co-ordination with other departments and production planning. You will be responsible for driving all food safety, health and safety standards and quality standards are adhered to. You will need to a hands on driver or CI initiatives, including SIC meetings and process mapping projects. To be successful in this role you will ideally have experience running a shift autonomously, especially within a fast-paced environment and teams upwards of (Apply online only)+. You will have 5-10+ years in management and within food manufacturing, you will also have exposure to CI and Lean Manufacturing projects and understanding of training/methodologies. 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 an experienced H&S/EHS/SHE Manager with over 5 years operating at management level? Ideally looking for someone with food and drink manufacturing experience, however FMCG can be considered. You will need to be NEBOSH qualified and understanding of ISO-14001. We have a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established and renowned food manufacturer within the industry, who are looking for a EHS Manager to join the team. The company are a multi-site organisation, but this position will be site based only. You will be responsible for ensuring standards, food safety, quality etc are adhered to, compliance with statutory requirements, working and advising the site management team, promote H&S down through the site, develop policies and procedures. To be successful in this role you will need to have management experience, a hands on individual who likes to focus on people development and process improvements. 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)