Zest

We're working with a well-established food manufacturing business based in Lincolnshire, who are looking for an NPD Technologist to join their growing team. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys seeing projects through from concept to launch, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and isn't afraid to roll their sleeves up and get stuck in. Key Responsibilities Managing NPD projects end-to-end, from initial brief through to successful launch Owning and managing critical paths, ensuring timelines, costs, and quality standards are met Acting as a customer-facing point of contact, confidently presenting concepts, progress updates, and solutions Working cross-functionally with Technical, Operations, and Commercial teams Supporting trials, factory launches, and continuous improvement projects Bringing creativity and fresh ideas to product development What We're Looking For Previous experience in an NPD Technologist or similar role within FMCG / food manufacturing Strong project management skills with proven experience managing critical paths Confident customer-facing experience A creative mindset with a practical, hands-on approach Organised, proactive, and comfortable working in a fast-moving environment Someone who genuinely enjoys product development and being involved at every stage Why Apply? Opportunity to work with a supportive and collaborative team A varied role with real ownership and visibility A chance to be creative while still being commercially focused If you're an NPD Technologist who loves juggling projects, working with customers, and bringing products to life, this could be a great next step. 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 well-established and highly respected food business based in Lancashire who are looking to recruit an experienced Specifications Technologist to join their technical team. This is a key role within the business, offering the opportunity to take ownership of customer and legal specifications, lead artwork and labelling compliance, and support the development of the specifications function. The Role As Specifications Technologist, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end specification process, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and alignment with customer, legal, and certification standards. You will also play a leadership role in developing junior team members and driving continuous improvement. Key responsibilities include: Managing the creation and ongoing maintenance of customer specifications for new product launches Ensuring specifications are updated in line with EPD changes, supplier amendments, and legal or customer requirements Reviewing and maintaining specifications to ensure compliance with BRC and customer-specific standards Overseeing translation and artwork approval processes to ensure legal and customer compliance Staying up to date with changes in food labelling legislation across multiple markets, including the use of third-party approvals where required Acting as the main point of contact for customers regarding specifications, queries, and questionnaires Attending and supporting internal and external audits Supporting the development and maintenance of written procedures and work instructions within the specifications department Managing and developing a Specification Technologist through on-the-job coaching and formal training Attending development and planning meetings to forecast workload and allocate resources effectively Promoting health, safety, and wellbeing in line with company policies Driving continuous improvement and supporting change initiatives within your area of responsibility About You You will be an experienced specifications professional from within the food manufacturing industry, confident working in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. You will ideally have: Proven experience in food specifications management Strong knowledge of food labelling legislation and customer standards Experience working with BRC and retailer requirements Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills Confidence communicating with customers and internal stakeholders Experience mentoring or managing junior team members 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: Maintenance Engineer Salary: 50,000 + Overtime at enhanced rate - (Average earnings 60K+) Shifts: 12-hour shifts- 4O4O- covering days and nights Location: Kent Zest have partnered closely with a successful and rapidly growing food manufacturer in the heart of Kent. Due to growth and investment in the business we are seeking an experienced engineer to join our client's team. You'll work on everything from classic plant kit to brand-new machinery, keeping production running smoothly while enjoying the freedom to get the job done without being clock-watched. The Role: Planned & reactive maintenance - around 5 scheduled jobs per day, plus responding to breakdowns as needed Work on a mix of older plant and modern high-speed automated equipment Support major capital investment projects, including installations, commissioning, and upgrades Carry out fault finding and repairs across mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems Collaborate closely with production teams to minimise downtime and keep operations smooth Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to boost reliability and efficiency What We're Looking For: Knowledge of working with a range of mechanical systems including both Hydraulics & Pneumatics Experience in FMCG, food manufacturing, or other fast-paced environments Strong troubleshooting skills - able to work independently and think on your feet Calm under pressure and able to prioritise effectively A dependable, team-oriented engineer who can be trusted as a safe pair of hands Happy to get involved in both day-to-day maintenance and large-scale project work For more information contact George on (phone number removed) or (url removed) and join a team where you'll be valued, and part of something exciting 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: Shepton Mallet, Somerset Salary: 50,000 - 53,000 + Enhanced Overtime + Bonus Shift Pattern: 4O4O (12-hour shifts) 06:00-18:00 18:00 - 06:00 Zest have partnered up with a growing and successful FMCG in the heart of Somerset. We are seeking Multiple Multi-Skilled Engineer to join the team. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a reputable and expanding company. Due to an expansion within the business they are now looking to expand its Engineering team. The Role Conducting preventative and reactive maintenance on production machinery. 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 background in electrical and mechanical engineering. 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)

We are delighted to be partnering with a well-established and much-loved brand to recruit a Graduate Development Technologist. This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their food industry career to step into a hands-on development role within a business known for producing high-quality, wholesome products enjoyed globally. With over 48 years of heritage, our client combines the backing of a global food group with the agility and innovative mindset of a forward-thinking brand. They are passionate about pushing boundaries, developing healthier products and acting responsibly for both people and the planet. You will play a key role in bringing new products to life, from concept through to launch. You'll lead development projects across branded and private label ranges, create and refine recipes in the R&D kitchen and support factory trials to ensure successful scale-up to production. You'll also use consumer and sensory insights to drive product improvements. We are seeking candidates with a degree in Food Science, Nutrition or a related discipline, along with at least one year's FMCG experience in R&D, Technical or Quality (placements considered). Strong organisational skills, a proactive mindset and the ability to collaborate effectively across teams are essential. The role offers 28,000- 30,000, a 5% bonus, 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays and a GREAT pension. Additional benefits include a Health Cash Plan, staff shop and discounts, free onsite parking and flexible working hours. This is a full-time, 37.5-hour position with a hybrid pattern of three days onsite and two from home. You will need a car and driving license. The interview process consists of a first-stage Teams interview followed by a second-stage onsite meeting. If you're looking to contribute to products enjoyed by millions, we would love to hear from you. Please call 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)

Want to be at the heart of delivering new delicious products from initial concept through to full-scale production? This is a pivotal position driving innovation across branded, own-label and foodservice ranges. Acting as the vital link between the development kitchen and the factory floor, you will lead product and packaging development projects, working cross-functionally to ensure seamless launches while upholding the highest standards of food safety, quality and technical compliance. You will be degree-qualified in Food Science or a related discipline, with a minimum of two years' experience within FMCG product development or process technology. Strong hands-on experience of factory trials, gated development processes and customer-facing projects is essential. We are looking for an organised, confident communicator who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and is comfortable collaborating across multiple functions. Experience within chilled foods would be highly advantageous. In return, the business offers a competitive benefits package including private health insurance, an enhanced pension scheme and generous holiday entitlement, with an additional day purchasing scheme. Please note: unfortunately, sponsorship is not available for this role. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing and ambitious business where you will have genuine influence over the innovation pipeline and play a key role in the successful launch of new products. For a confidential conversation and further details, please 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)

Are you an experienced NPD professional with a passion for innovation and a talent for bringing products to life? We're partnering with a well-established business in Buckinghamshire that is looking to appoint a confident and commercially aware NPD Manager to join their growing team. This is a fantastic opportunity for a proven NPD leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys working closely with major retailers to deliver successful product launches. The Role As NPD Manager, you will take ownership of the end-to-end product development process - from concept through to launch - ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standard. You'll work cross-functionally with internal teams and act as a key point of contact for retail customers, presenting ideas and managing expectations throughout the development cycle. Key Responsibilities: Lead and manage multiple NPD projects from concept to launch Drive innovation aligned with customer and market trends Build and maintain strong relationships with retail customers Present concepts and product updates confidently to external stakeholders Collaborate cross-functionally across technical, commercial, and operations teams Ensure project timelines, budgets, and critical paths are effectively managed About You: Established NPD experience within a relevant FMCG or manufacturing environment Strong project management capability with proven delivery of successful launches Confident in customer-facing situations, ideally with retailer exposure Commercially astute with an innovation-focused mindset Highly organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities What's on Offer: Hybrid working (typically 2 days from home, depending on business needs) A collaborative and forward-thinking culture The opportunity to make a real impact within an innovation-led business If you're looking for a role where you can combine creativity, customer engagement, and structured project delivery - 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)

Group Procurement Buyer - Feed Commodities Hybrid role with a minimum of 3 days per week on-site in Norfolk The Opportunity A leading UK food manufacturing group is looking for a Group Procurement Buyer to join its central procurement function to focus on feed commodities. This is a development opportunity for someone looking to build a long-term career in agricultural commodities procurement. The role offers exposure to national operations and the opportunity to develop into a subject matter expert within feed raw materials. You will join a collaborative, commercially focused team operating in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Initially managing a smaller spend area, you will progressively take ownership of larger and more complex categories as your expertise grows. Key Responsibilities Purchase feed raw materials for use across multiple UK sites Develop strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders Monitor commodity markets, pricing trends and global supply movements Support risk management strategies across volatile markets Negotiate contracts and manage ongoing supplier performance Use data and market insight to support commercial decision-making Build knowledge of agricultural supply chains and trading dynamics Adapt to evolving market conditions and business priorities About You: Experience within agriculture, ideally involving buying, trading or merchanting Understanding of agricultural markets, crops and commodity trading principles Exposure to contracts and trading environments Strong Excel and analytical skills, comfortable working with pricing and risk data Commercially minded with a desire to develop into a category specialist Able to operate within a large, complex organisation Approximately 3+ years' relevant industry experience (flexible depending on capability) This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious procurement professional looking to specialise in feed commodities within a nationally recognised organisation. 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)

This role would suit an Operations Manager, Manufacturing Manager, Factory Manager or Site Lead as there is a pathway to progression within the business - Timelines TBC. We are currently partnering with a well-established, reputable market leader within food manufacturing who are currently seeking an Operations Manager to join the team. This role is a key member of the SLT and will need a safe pair of hands who knows how to integrate into a new environment. You will be responsible for site management, driving a safe culture, delivering inspirational leadership, productivity and efficient KPI management. Develop a cross functional and two way communication across all departments, delivering best practice. Ensure compliance with all HSE regulations and site procedures and deliver personal development plans. To be successful in this role, you will need to have experience operating at senior Operational level or site leadership, knowing the challenges that can come with a proactive/reactive, fast paced environment, strong project management and presentation skills, a desire for delivering results, improvements and winning over hearts and minds! If you feel you match the above criteria and wish to discuss in further detail/apply, please contact Sam on (phone number removed). As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We are shortlisting for a new opportunity with an evolving food business offering a great range of products! The business has a positive vision and plans which will be great to be part of. - You'll be involved in technical data trending, raw materials and QMS, supporting your stakeholders, customer complaints and building relationships with customers and 3rd parties. The business is looking for a technically talented candidate with a sound knowledge of technical systems. The business has a positive vision and plans which will be great to be part of. - You'll be involved in technical data trending, raw materials and QMS, supporting your stakeholders, customer complaints and building relationships with customers and 3rd parties. Your duties will include: Quality Management Systems Food defence knowledge and adhering to processes Technical data trending Engaging with customers and suppliers Knowledge of the UK food industry will be needed and knowledge of HACCP, manufacturing procedures and standards. Exposure to BRC would be advantageous. Food Technology/Food Science or related degree is desirable. Confident communication skills are vital for this role in order to liaise with members of staff, customers and suppliers. The position will suit a forward thinking and affable individual who works well in a team and with a keen passion for delivering and with good organisational skills. If you feel this opportunity is for you and you meet the above criteria then click apply - alternatively you can send through your C.V Natasha 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)

Interim Specifications Technologist Location: Wiltshire Hybrid Working Available Full-time or Part-time (3-4 days per week considered) 3-6 months contract We are currently supporting a well-established food manufacturing business based in Wiltshire who are seeking an experienced Specifications Technologist to join their technical team. This is a hands-on role, ideal for a strong specifications professional who is confident managing retailer-facing documentation. The business offers hybrid working, with a mix of site-based and home working, and will also consider candidates looking for part-time hours (3-4 days per week). Key Responsibilities: Generation and management of pack copy, ensuring accuracy and compliance with relevant legislation Artwork approvals, working with internal teams and external stakeholders to meet deadlines Compilation, review and approval of raw material specifications, in line with all technical standards Completion and maintenance of finished product specifications, specifically referencing retailer requirements Confident use of retailer specification systems, ensuring accuracy and compliance across customers Key Experience Required: Proven experience in a Specifications Technologist (or similar) role within food manufacturing Strong understanding of UK retailer requirements and specification systems Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple specifications simultaneously Ability to work independently while supporting the wider technical team Strong communication skills and a collaborative approach This is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive technical team on a flexible basis, offering hybrid working and the option for reduced hours. 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)

Leading your team to Spotless Success! If you are passionate about maintaining top-tier hygiene standards in high-quality food manufacturing setting, this role is just for you as the Hygiene Manager! Your key duties and responsibilities will include: - Ensure all hygiene practices meet technical standards and regulatory requirements, keeping records up-to-date and ready for audits. - Lead, develop, and manage the hygiene team, fostering a culture of excellence in food safety and quality. - Oversee and manage relationships with chemical suppliers, ensuring proper usage and compliance. - Take charge of hosting and managing site hygiene audits, ensuring that the facility is always prepared for both internal and external inspections. - Manage the hygiene department budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness while maintaining high standards. - Serve as the key point of contact for hygiene-related matters, ensuring clear communication across all relevant departments. - Take ownership of any non-conformances or hygiene issues, addressing them promptly and proactively preventing future occurrences. - Lead by example to foster a culture of awareness and commitment to food safety, encouraging staff to report any issues and rewarding proactive behaviour. It is essential that you have experience managing hygiene/cleaning teams, BRC, Chemical knowledge, IOSH, COSHH, Auditing and Retailer standards. Key Requirements: Proven experience in hygiene management within a food manufacturing environment. Strong knowledge of food safety standards, regulations, and audit processes. Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to manage budgets and supplier relationships effectively. Strong communication and problem-solving skills, with a proactive approach to issue resolution. If you feel this opportunity is for you and you meet the above criteria then click apply - alternatively you can send through your C.V Natasha 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)

If you are an experienced hands on QA Technologist and on the market for your next career progression in the industry I have just the role just for you! You'll be a quality and safety champion at heart, personable character who works well to their own initiative, adapts well to busy environments, appreciates high customer service standards and just as important a team player! The responsibilities will include: Good Manufacturing Practices and compliant with legislation Supervising quality procedures and training Carrying out day to day quality control duties including testing schedules, taste panels, managing the release of raw materials and finished products Stock management and KPI reporting Calibration checks, investigations and data recording Support with complaints and corrective actions where necessary Continue to drive high standard within the quality team, hygiene, continuous improvement and house keeping The ideal candidate will be a self-motivated individual with good communication skills, and an enthusiastic personality. Preferred experience within UK Food Manufacturing and Food Supervisory or Team Leader experience will be required and HACCP/QMS/BRC will be desirable. If you know this is the right role for you and you meet the criteria detailed above, then click apply - alternatively you can send though your C.V to (url removed) or phone (phone number removed) No sponsorship available As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We are recruiting for an NPD Administrator to support a busy New Product Development team within a food manufacturing environment. This role combines hands-on kitchen support with technical administration and is ideal for someone with a genuine love for food, strong organisation skills, and great attention to detail. The successful candidate will support the development of products from early kitchen concepts through to launch. Responsibilities include preparing samples for internal tastings and customer presentations, supporting day-to-day kitchen activities, managing raw material and benchmark stocks, ordering ingredients from suppliers, and maintaining high standards of hygiene and food safety. You will also be involved in technical and compliance-related tasks such as generating nutritional information, collating and checking raw material specifications, supporting artwork approval processes, and assisting with shelf-life and microbiological testing. Accurate record keeping and escalation of any issues to senior NPD team members will be essential. The role requires someone who works well under pressure, communicates effectively and takes pride in delivering right-first-time samples. Strong timekeeping, a team-focused attitude and flexibility around working hours are key to success in this position. A full UK driving licence and access to a car are essential for this role. The position offers a hybrid working pattern of 1 day working from home and 4 days on site. For further information or for a confidential conversation, please contact Nicola Richardson 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)

An opportunity has arisen for a Senior NPD Technologist to join a well-established, values-led chilled food manufacturer with a strong reputation for quality, sustainability and innovation. Reporting into the Product Development leadership team, this role will play a key part in the development and launch of new and existing products across multiple chilled categories. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you'll support the delivery of insight-led, high-quality product concepts that help shape the future of the company's product portfolio. You will support the creation and delivery of new product concepts across multiple chilled categories, coordinating kitchen samples, sourcing and assessing new ingredients, and collaborating with Process Development teams to identify opportunities for process improvements. You will assist with customer engagement and presentations, conduct market reviews and product benchmarking to identify trends and opportunities and help manage project critical paths to ensure timely delivery. Accurate documentation and strong cross-functional collaboration will be key to ensuring the success of innovation projects. This role will suit a hands-on Product Developer or NPD Technologist with experience in chilled FMCG, who thrives in a collaborative environment and enjoys working across multiple projects. You will have a food related degree or equivalent industry experience with at least 2 years post graduate experience in food, a proactive and problem-solving mindset with strong attention to detail and are able to engage with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. This company is a purpose driven chilled food business with strong values, they offer a competitive salary with an additional bonus and other benefits - it's a role you will not want to miss out on and is a business that has a supportive culture with clear learning and development opportunities. Please note: unfortunately this role does not offer sponsorship opportunities at this time, all candidates must hold right to work in the UK. To find out more and for a confidential conversation please 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)

A fantastic to join a successful and growing food manufacturer as they strengthen their technical team and recruiting for Technical Compliance Manager for a hands-on, site-based role with real influence across operations, quality, and food safety. This position is ideal for: A QA Manager ready to step up into a more senior technical leadership role, or An experienced technical/compliance professional seeking a fresh challenge where they can apply and expand their expertise. You'll thrive in this environment if you enjoy fast-paced manufacturing, being visible on the factory floor, and driving high technical standards through influence, leadership, and collaboration. The Opportunity You'll take responsibility for the site's Quality and Food Safety Management Systems, ensuring full compliance with legal, customer, and third-party standards. You'll lead audit readiness, champion HACCP, and embed best practice across all departments. The role suits someone proactive, solutions-focused, and confident in challenging and influencing at all levels. Factory engagement, coaching, and real-time problem-solving will be central to your approach. Key Responsibilities Lead and manage site-wide Quality & Food Safety Management Systems. Ensure compliance with customer standards, BRC and major retailer Codes of Practice. Lead HACCP implementation, validation, and maintenance. Manage internal audit programmes and close out non-conformances on time. Investigate and resolve quality and food safety issues with corrective and preventive actions. Maintain audit-ready systems and documentation at all times. Provide floor-based coaching on GMP and hygiene practices. Lead preparation for customer and third-party audits. Maintain schedules, reports, documentation and traceability systems. Deliver training and embed a strong food safety culture. Support product recall and crisis management procedures. Contribute to continuous improvement projects impacting technical compliance. Who We're Looking to Speak to Experience in Technical Management, Quality, or Compliance within food manufacturing or retail. Strong working knowledge of HACCP, food safety systems, and third-party standards. Familiarity with BRC, IFS, and major retailer requirements. Hands-on leadership style with strong factory floor presence. Excellent communicator with strong influencing skills. Strong organisational, planning, and time management capabilities. Competent IT skills and experience producing reports and documentation. Personal Attributes Proactive and action-focused with a positive 'can do' approach. Supportive, collaborative team player. Adaptable to change and fast-moving environments. Resilient under pressure, with a solution-led mindset. Motivated, enthusiastic, and committed to high standards. If you're ready to make an impact in a visible, influential technical role, we'd love to hear from you. Please get in touch for a confidential conversation or to register your interest. 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 well-established and highly respected food business based in Lancashire who are looking to recruit an experienced Specifications Technologist to join their technical team. This is a key role within the business, offering the opportunity to take ownership of customer and legal specifications, lead artwork and labelling compliance, and support the development of the specifications function. The Role As Specifications Technologist, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end specification process, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and alignment with customer, legal, and certification standards. You will also play a leadership role in developing junior team members and driving continuous improvement. Key responsibilities include: Managing the creation and ongoing maintenance of customer specifications for new product launches Ensuring specifications are updated in line with EPD changes, supplier amendments, and legal or customer requirements Reviewing and maintaining specifications to ensure compliance with BRC and customer-specific standards Overseeing translation and artwork approval processes to ensure legal and customer compliance Staying up to date with changes in food labelling legislation across multiple markets, including the use of third-party approvals where required Acting as the main point of contact for customers regarding specifications, queries, and questionnaires Attending and supporting internal and external audits Supporting the development and maintenance of written procedures and work instructions within the specifications department Managing and developing a Specification Technologist through on-the-job coaching and formal training Attending development and planning meetings to forecast workload and allocate resources effectively Promoting health, safety, and wellbeing in line with company policies Driving continuous improvement and supporting change initiatives within your area of responsibility About You You will be an experienced specifications professional from within the food manufacturing industry, confident working in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. You will ideally have: Proven experience in food specifications management Strong knowledge of food labelling legislation and customer standards Experience working with BRC and retailer requirements Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills Confidence communicating with customers and internal stakeholders Experience mentoring or managing junior team members 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 established bakery business is seeking a Technical NPD Baker to provide technical expertise across the UK and Ireland. This role plays a key part in supporting customers, driving innovation, and contributing to new product development within a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. The Role The successful candidate will provide hands-on technical support both internally and externally, working closely with customers, sales teams, and development functions. The role combines bakery-based development work with customer-facing technical support, trials, and training. Key Responsibilities Internal Technical Support Conducting test bakes Supporting new crop presentations and assisting development technologists Working closely with sales teams to support existing and new customer relationships Driving innovation across raw materials, processes, and recipes (NPD) Customer Technical Support (UK-wide) Leading and supporting NPD and customer development projects, including plant and factory trials Troubleshooting and product-related technical issues Developing new products and processes in response to customer and business briefs Building strong customer relationships through face-to-face meetings, technical presentations, and ongoing communication Preparing and baking product samples within a development bakery environment Supporting pre-production, first production runs, and post-launch reviews Maintaining awareness of comparative products across major retailers and brands Contributing to the continual improvement of the Concept NPD process Health & Safety Taking reasonable care for personal and others' health and safety Complying with all health, safety, and fire procedures both on company and customer premises About You Experienced in bakery or food product development Confident working directly with customers and presenting technical information Hands-on, organised, and comfortable managing multiple projects Passionate about innovation, quality, and continuous improvement Willing to travel across the UK and Ireland as required The client cannot offer sponsorship at this. 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 opportunity for an experienced Technical Manager/ Senior QA Manager to lead the factory technical function within a grounded food manufacturing business. This is a key position with responsibility for ensuring the highest standards of food safety, quality, legality, and compliance, while driving continuous improvement stakeholders and teams on the site, you'll also play a visible role in audits, customer relationships, and deliver initiatives that support business growth and integrity. Key Responsibilities Leading technical operations, ensuring robust systems for quality, food safety, legality, and brand integrity. Champion a positive food safety and quality culture across all departments. Manage, coach, and develop the factory technical team, embedding strong leadership, succession planning, and performance management. Deputise for senior management Collaborate with wider business functions to share best practice and deliver strategic projects. Lead investigations, non-conformance management, implementation to maintain continuous improvement. About You You're an experienced technical manager or progressive QA Manager with a strong background in food manufacturing and the credibility to influence quality and food and quality standards. Essential Skills & Experience Degree (or equivalent) in Food Science or a related discipline. Proven track record in a senior technical or quality management role within food manufacturing. Strong understanding of UK retailer Codes of Practice. Demonstrated success in leading and developing high-performing teams. Knowledge of BRCGS and other third-party audit standards. Strong communication, influencing, and problem-solving skills. As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

We are delighted to be partnering with a long-standing client to recruit a Group Technical Auditor for a newly created role within their Group Technical function. This is an exciting opportunity to join a well-established, nationwide food manufacturing business at group level, playing a key role in driving consistency, compliance, and audit excellence across multiple sites. The Role: Reporting into the Group Technical team, you will take ownership of internal auditing across all manufacturing facilities, ensuring alignment to a single internal audit programme and full compliance with retailer, BRC, and food safety standards. This is a highly visible, hands-on role requiring regular travel to sites across the UK. Key responsibilities include: -Leading and supporting internal audits across all manufacturing sites to ensure ongoing audit readiness -Ensuring all sites are aligned to group technical standards, internal audit programmes, retailer requirements, and BRC standards -Preparing sites for external audits and ensuring corrective actions are effectively implemented -Being present and supporting sites during external retailer and certification audits and visits -Driving continuous improvement within site technical functions -Supporting the development and capability of technical teams across the group -Acting as a key technical interface between sites and the Group Technical function Essential requirements: -Proven auditing experience within food manufacturing -Lead Auditor qualification (essential) -Strong working knowledge of BRC standards -Strong understanding and practical application of HACCP -Previous experience working with major retailers (essential) -Confident operating across multiple sites in a group environment -Willing and able to travel regularly nationwide 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)