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Technical Development Manager

Job description

Technical Development Manager
Premium Confectionery - UK Retailers - European Supplier Travel

Own the technical agenda. Influence major retailers. Shape standout products.

This is a high-impact, front-facing technical role within a market-leading premium confectionery business.

You’ll take ownership of technical, quality and compliance across a branded and private label portfolio, working directly with the UK’s top retailers and travelling across Europe to manufacturing and supplier sites. If you’re looking for visibility, influence and genuine ownership — this role delivers.

 

Why this role stands out

  • Direct exposure to major UK retailers

  • End-to-end ownership from concept to launch

  • European travel to supplier and factory sites

  • A visible, trusted role at the heart of the business

  • The chance to shape quality, safety and sustainability strategy

This is not a back-office technical role. You’ll be the central technical voice, guiding decisions and ensuring every product meets the highest standards.

 

What you’ll be doing

  • Act as the key technical contact for retailers, suppliers and internal teams

  • Lead and support supplier audits, GAP analysis and audit readiness

  • Attend first productions and support investigations and audit close-outs

  • Support product development through retailer specification and approval processes

  • Draft, review and manage specifications throughout their lifecycle

  • Own certifications including BRC Agents & Brokers, RSPO, Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance

  • Maintain the QMS, manage supplier approval and drive continuous improvement

  • Horizon scan food legislation and retailer policy changes

 

What we’re looking for

  • 5+ years’ experience in FMCG (retailer or supplier side)

  • Strong, front-facing experience with UK retailers

  • Proven product development and launch experience

  • Hands-on specification management

  • Experience working within a BRC framework (audit experience desirable)

  • Food science qualification or equivalent experience

 

Apply now

If you want a technically senior role with real influence, retailer exposure and European travel, we’d love to hear from you.