Technical Development Manager

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.