Zest

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 Northamptonshire 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: 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)

Technical Manager Devon 55,000 - 65,000 We're recruiting for an experienced Technical Manager to join a well-established food manufacturing business supplying major UK retailers. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for food safety, quality, compliance and retailer relationships. Key Responsibilities: - Lead site food safety, quality and compliance activities. - Manage HACCP systems and BRCGS standards. - Lead customer, retailer and third-party audits. - Build strong relationships with key retail customers. - Lead and develop the technical and QA team. - Drive continuous improvement across food safety and quality performance. What We're Looking For: - Technical Manager or Senior Technical experience within food manufacturing. - Strong BRCGS and HACCP knowledge. - Experience working with major UK retailers. - Proven audit and team leadership experience. - A hands-on, collaborative approach with strong stakeholder management skills. What's on Offer: - Salary of 55,000 - 65,000. - Genuine leadership influence within the business. - Established technical team. - Stable, successful manufacturing environment with long-term career prospects. If you're open to a confidential conversation, or know someone who could be a good fit, feel free to call me directly 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)

Location: On-site in East Midlands/East Anglia Salary: 50,000 - 60,000 + excellent benefits This is a chance to join a highly successful fresh produce business that has built an outstanding reputation not only for its products and customer partnerships, but also for the way it develops, supports and retains its people. With a collaborative, high-performing culture and a leadership team committed to investing in talent, this is an environment where ambition is encouraged, achievements are recognised, and careers are built for the long term. Many of the business's senior leaders have progressed internally, and structured personal development plans, leadership programmes and ongoing training ensure employees are continually supported to reach their potential. Reporting directly to the Commercial Director, you will take full ownership of one of the business's key retail accounts - Ocado. This is a highly visible and influential position where you will play a key role in driving growth, strengthening customer relationships and shaping commercial strategy. Working as part of a collaborative commercial team, you'll enjoy a varied role that combines strategic thinking with day-to-day customer engagement. The business also offers flexible working arrangements, where you can start early and finish early if you prefer, allowing you to balance professional success with personal commitments. Key Responsibilities Lead and develop the strategic relationship with Ocado. Create and deliver customer account plans that drive sustainable, profitable growth. Identify opportunities for category growth, innovation and value creation. Lead commercial negotiations and customer discussions. Work cross-functionally with operations, technical, NPD and supply chain teams to deliver outstanding customer service. Support and drive the NPD process from concept through to successful launch. Utilise market insights and category data to influence decision-making. Champion continuous improvement initiatives that enhance performance and efficiency. You will be an experienced commercial professional with a proven track record of managing major retail accounts ideally from the world of fresh produce, or other relatable short-shelf life categories. You can be either at Manager level, looking to step up, or be an existing senior manager looking for that next move. You will be commercially astute, relationship-focused and motivated by delivering results while building strong partnerships both internally and externally. What's On Offer? -Ownership of a major retail account. -Direct exposure to senior leadership and commercial decision-making. -A genuinely supportive culture that invests heavily in people development. -Structured PDPs, training and leadership development programmes. -Flexible working arrangements (i.e early start / finish) -Competitive salary and benefits package. If you're looking for a role where your energy, determination and success will be recognised, rewarded and supported with genuine career development opportunities, we'd love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion, please 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)

This is a genuinely exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing food business at a pivotal stage in its journey. With significant investment, ambitious plans, the business is entering a period of serious growth and is now looking for a Process Technologist to play a key role in shaping its future. Working at the heart of a busy and innovative team, bringing new products to life. You'll lead the process from concept through to successful launch, collaborating closely with major UK retailers to deliver products that excite consumers and strengthen long-term partnerships. In addition to managing the critical path, you'll take ownership of process development and continuous improvement, ensuring products move smoothly and efficiently through the factory while maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance. The role also includes helping to build capability as the business continues to expand. This position offers the chance to make a genuine impact in a business where ideas move quickly, innovation is encouraged and individuals have the opportunity to take real ownership. It's an ideal role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment and wants to be part of building something special. We're keen to speak with individuals who have experience within food manufacturing and a strong understanding of the concept-to-launch process. Whether you're an experienced Process Technologist looking for the next step, a Development Technologist ready to move into process, this role offers outstanding scope for progression within a rapidly growing business. To express interest, contact Nicola for a confidential conversation on (phone number removed) or send 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)

Site Engineer Straight days 8am-4pm Salary - £50,000 = benefits I am currently seeking a Site Engineer to join a growing team in Manchester. As a key member of the organisation, you will be responsible for responding to reactive breakdowns, completeing PPM's & leading a small team of engineers. Lead and motivate a team of engineers click apply for full job details

Multi skilled Maintenance Engineer 12 hour Days & Nights Wirral £62,000 basic salary + benefits As a Multi-Skilled Engineer, you'll play a critical role in maintaining, improving, and innovating across production lines. Planned and reactive maintenance across mechanical and electrical systems Diagnosing faults and implementing sustainable solutions Supporting continuous improvement projects Workin click apply for full job details

Site Engineer Straight days 8am-4pm Salary - £50,000 = benefits I am currently seeking a Site Engineer to join a growing team in Manchester. As a key member of the organisation, you will be responsible for responding to reactive breakdowns, completeing PPM's & leading a small team of engineers. Lead and motivate a team of engineers click apply for full job details

Multi-skilled Engineer - Nights Norfolk A well-established and highly respected FMCG manufacturer in Norfolk is seeking a Multi-Skilled Engineer to join their night shift engineering team. This is an excellent opportunity to join a modern, high-speed production facility that continues to invest heavily in equipment, automation, and its people click apply for full job details

Multi skilled Maintenance Engineer 12 hour Days & Nights Wirral £62,000 basic salary + benefits As a Multi-Skilled Engineer, you'll play a critical role in maintaining, improving, and innovating across production lines. Planned and reactive maintenance across mechanical and electrical systems Diagnosing faults and implementing sustainable solutions Supporting continuous improvement projects Workin click apply for full job details

Are you practical, detail-focused and experienced in quality control - not just theory, but hands-on inspection? We're looking for a Quality Inspector to join a regulated manufacturing environment where accuracy and consistency are essential, a hands-on, practical approach to quality is valued, and doing things right the first time is the standard. This role would suit someone with experience in quality inspection within any structured production setting. Attitude and aptitude are more important than qualifications - full training can be provided for the right person who is willing to learn and develop. The Role: Working a rotating double day shift, you will be responsible for ensuring materials and finished products meet required specifications and quality standards before release. Your responsibilities will include: Inspecting incoming materials Carrying out in-process production checks Performing first article inspections Final product release inspection Mechanical, physical and visual testing Completing inspection reports and maintaining accurate records Raising non-conformance reports where required Supporting investigations and continuous improvement activities Maintaining compliance within a structured quality management system You will play a key role in ensuring that standards are maintained without negatively impacting operational efficiency. This is a great opportunity for someone who takes pride in high standards, enjoys hands-on work, and wants to develop their career in a structured quality environment. If you have quality experience, a practical mindset, and are ready to grow, 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)

Our client, a well-established and rapidly expanding international food and beverage brand, is seeking a Food & Beverage Development Manager to join their growing U.K. team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of a highly recognisable brand within a competitive and fast-paced market. With a strong heritage and ambitious expansion plans, the business is focused on delivering high-quality products, exceptional customer experiences and continuous innovation across its food and beverage offering. In this role, you will be responsible for driving business performance through the development and execution of food and beverage strategies, creating and evolving product ranges that deliver consistency in taste, quality, value and overall customer satisfaction. With a particular emphasis on beverage development, you will identify emerging trends, lead new product launches and introduce innovative concepts that keep the brand fresh and relevant. You will also play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the beverage category, working closely with cross-functional teams including marketing, supply chain, finance and operations to deliver commercially successful ranges. The ideal candidate will have experience in product development within food service, QSR, or beverage-led environments, alongside a strong understanding of HACCP, excellent stakeholder management skills and advanced Excel capability. This would be particularly well suited to someone looking to take the next step into a management-level role. The position offers excellent learning and development opportunities, with strong exposure across multiple areas of the business. As the company continues its rapid expansion, there is significant scope for growth and progression, along with the opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of the food and beverage offering at a strategic level. Based in London, the role also involves regular travel across the U.K. supporting site visits, supplier engagement and ongoing product development initiatives. In return, you will receive a competitive benefits package including a generous holiday allowance, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive company package. Please Note: Sponsorship is not available for this role so you must have full right to work in the UK. For a confidential conversation to find out more 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)

Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) Manager Food Manufacturing London Standalone Leadership Role with Strategic Influence Some HSE roles are about ticking boxes. Others give you the opportunity to shape the future of a site. This is one of those opportunities. We're exclusively supporting a growing and well-invested food manufacturing business in London to appoint a Health, Safety & Environmental click apply for full job details

Immediate start! You will be responsible for leading a team, maintaining exceptional hygiene standards across the site: Cleaning production equipment, machinery, and all site areas to a high standard Maintaining strict personal hygiene and PPE compliance Working safely in line with COSHH, health & safety, and site procedures Completing hygiene records accurately and on time Supporting a "right first time" and audit-ready culture Previous cleaning or hygiene experience preferred (food manufacturing desirable but not essential) Awareness of COSHH and safe chemical handling Strong attention to detail and pride in maintaining standards Reliable team player with good communication skills To apply it's really easy, contact Natasha on (phone number removed) or send your C.V 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)

Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) Manager Food Manufacturing London Standalone Leadership Role with Strategic Influence Some HSE roles are about ticking boxes. Others give you the opportunity to shape the future of a site. This is one of those opportunities. We're exclusively supporting a growing and well-invested food manufacturing business in London to appoint a Health, Safety & Environmental click apply for full job details

We are partnering with a leading global food ingredients manufacturer to recruit a Commercial Finance Business Partner. This is a key role within the UK&I commercial team, offering significant exposure to senior commercial stakeholders and the opportunity to directly influence business performance and strategy. Reporting to the Head of FP&A and Business Partnering, the successful candidate will lead commercial finance business partnering-providing insight, challenge, and support to drive profitable growth. The Role This position sits at the heart of the commercial function, acting as a trusted advisor to Sales and Commercial leadership. You will play a critical role in shaping decision-making through robust financial insight, effective planning, and strong governance. Key responsibilities include: -Acting as the finance lead to the Commercial team, influencing and challenging decisions to drive profitable growth -Leading the commercial finance input into forecasting, budgeting, and the monthly performance cycle -Delivering clear, actionable insight on revenue, margin, pricing, and portfolio performance -Owning pricing governance, including the development and maintenance of pricing models and frameworks -Supporting customer negotiations through scenario planning and financial analysis -Developing customer and product profitability analysis, identifying risks and opportunities to improve margin -Partnering with R&D and Commercial teams on new product development (NPD) and innovation business cases -Ensuring robust governance, tracking, and delivery of NPD initiatives -Driving continuous improvement across commercial finance processes, tools, and reporting We are looking for a commercially minded finance professional with strong business partnering experience and the ability to influence senior stakeholders. Key requirements: -Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) -Proven experience in commercial finance and business partnering roles, ideally from a food manufacturing background. -Strong analytical and data management skills, with advanced Excel capability -Experience with pricing, costing models, and profitability analysis -Familiarity with BI systems and tools -Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate data into clear commercial insight -Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a track record of driving improvements -Experience working with product development or R&D functions is advantageous This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established, globally recognised organisation in a highly visible and impactful role. You will have the chance to shape commercial performance, influence key decisions, and contribute to ongoing growth and innovation. 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 a Production/Manufacturing Shift Manager or Production Manager shift based. A safe pair of hands and experience operating independently will be needed. We are currently working with a multi-site food manufacturer that are looking for a Backshift Production Manager to join the team on a Mon-Fri 2-10pm shift. You will be responsible for both Business Units and the most senior point of contact on the Backshift. Responsibilities will include driving a safety culture, quality procedures, upskilling and development of the backshift team and building a collaborative environment across all departments. To be successful in the role you will ideally have experience overseeing and running a backshift, failing that, operating in a Production Manager or an independent run Shift Manager role will suffice. A background in food manufacturing will be needed and experience overseeing teams of 50-100 reports. 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)

A skilled food development expert with a passion for crafting exceptional products and transforming ideas into high-quality, commercially successful innovations will find an exclusive opportunity with our client in Buckinghamshire. They are seeking a Senior Development Technologist to join their team and contribute to the creation of standout, market-ready products. This is a hands-on role for an experienced NPD professional within food manufacturing-someone who can blend creativity with commercial awareness in a fast-paced production environment. You will need a minimum of 2 years experience in NPD in UK food manufacturing. Experience working directly with customers would be a significant advantage, as you'll contribute to shaping standout products tailored to their needs. A full UK driving licence is essential. As part of this progressive and highly collaborative business, you'll join a close-knit team where your insight, vision and technical expertise will have genuine impact. With a competitive salary of circa 45,000, this is a rare chance to elevate your career and play a key role in delivering exceptional new product launches. If you're ready to advance your career with a company that values innovation and excellence, contact Nicola on (phone number removed) for a confidential discussion or email your updated CV to (url removed) As you know over here at Zest we like to do things properly and always want to keep you, the candidate in the loop. Applying to this 'one of a kind' role you give Zest permission to hold your information. If you want to know more about how Zest look after your personal information please visit our privacy policy on the website (url removed)

Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) Manager Food Manufacturing London Standalone Leadership Role with Strategic Influence Some HSE roles are about ticking boxes. Others give you the opportunity to shape the future of a site. This is one of those opportunities. We're exclusively supporting a growing and well-invested food manufacturing business in London to appoint a Health, Safety & Environmental click apply for full job details

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)

Purchasing Manager / Senior Purchasing Manager - Ingredients / Commodities This is an exciting opportunity to join the purchasing team of a global ingredients business. Reporting to the Supply Chain Director, this is a high-impact role offering both strategic responsibility and team leadership within a well-established function. The business operates at scale, sourcing large volumes of raw materials from global markets to support a diverse food customer base. Known for its quality and strong supplier partnerships, it offers a collaborative environment with clear opportunities for growth and development. The Role: You will take ownership of the procurement of key raw materials on a global basis, alongside selected indirect categories. Leading a team of three, you'll play a central role in shaping sourcing strategy, maintaining strong supplier relationships, and ensuring continuity of supply in a dynamic market. This role offers a balance of strategic input and operational delivery, with real visibility across the business. Key Responsibilities -Manage procurement of high-volume raw materials from global suppliers -Lead and develop a team of three procurement professionals -Build and maintain strong, long-term supplier relationships -Drive cost optimisation, risk management, and supply continuity -Support and implement best practice procurement processes -Work cross functionally with internal stakeholders across supply chain, technical, and commercial teams About You -Minimum 10 years' procurement experience within large, complex organisations -Strong track record managing significant spend and supplier bases -Experience in ingredients, commodities, or food-related procurement this is ESSENTIAL and only candidates with this experience will be considered -Previous team management or leadership experience -Commercially aware, with the ability to balance strategy and delivery -Strategic capability. -Confident communicator, able to influence and build credibility across the business This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a purchasing role within a global organisation that values its people. You'll have the autonomy to make an impact, lead a capable team, and further develop your career in a supportive and forward-thinking 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)