Technical Manager – Fresh Produce

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Technical Manager to join a dynamic and growing Fresh Produce business, specialising in tropical fruit supply to UK and international markets.

This is a supplier-focused role with a strong emphasis on building relationships, driving compliance, and ensuring product quality from source through to customer. You will play a key role in managing supplier performance, supporting technical standards across the supply chain, and contributing to the continued growth of the business.

With approximately 6 international trips per year, this role offers excellent exposure to global supply chains and the opportunity to work closely with growers and partners at source.

Technical Manager Key Responsibilities

• Manage and develop relationships with international suppliers and growers, ensuring alignment with customer and business requirements
• Oversee supplier approval, compliance, and ongoing due diligence processes across tropical fruit categories
• Conduct supplier audits, site visits, and technical reviews to ensure food safety, quality, and ethical standards are met
• Support and manage risk assessments including pesticide, microbiological, ethical, and TACCP/VACCP requirements
• Ensure all supplier documentation, specifications, and compliance records are accurate and audit-ready
• Work closely with commercial and procurement teams to support sourcing decisions and product availability
• Monitor supplier performance, investigating non-conformances and implementing corrective actions
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the supply base, including quality, consistency, and sustainability
• Support customer requirements and technical queries, ensuring timely and effective resolution
• Contribute to technical reporting, KPI tracking, and business updates

Technical Manager Key Requirements

• Proven experience in a Technical or Compliance role within Fresh Produce or FMCG
• Strong supplier-facing experience, ideally with exposure to international supply chains
• Solid understanding of food safety standards, auditing, and regulatory compliance
• Experience managing supplier approval processes and risk assessments
• Confident communicator with the ability to build strong relationships across cultures and geographies
• Commercial awareness with the ability to balance quality, cost, and supply requirements
• Highly organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally (circa 6 trips per year)
• Full UK driving licence and right to work in the UK

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a forward-thinking Fresh Produce business, offering autonomy, international exposure, and the chance to make a real impact across a global supply network.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom, and evidence of this will be required prior to interview.