Head of Technical

Mash Direct is an award-winning food production company, recognised for delivering farm-fresh, convenient mash and vegetable side dishes to homes across Ireland and the UK.As the business continues to expand and innovate, we are looking for a talented, experienced and proactive Head of Technical to lead our technical and quality functions.This is a key leadership role, responsible for ensuring the highest standards of food safety, compliance, and product integrity, while supporting our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and continuous improvement throughout the supply chain.As the senior technical authority within the business, you will establish the technical strategy to support business objectives, meet customer expectations, and comply with legislative requirements.You will directly manage the Compliance & Regulatory Manager, Quality Co-ordinators, and the Technical team — ensuring an integrated approach to quality systems, food safety culture, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

– Define and align the technical vision with the organisation’s overall business goals and vision
– Identify and evaluate emerging technologies and trends to maintain competitive advantage
– Lead on technical innovation and quality standards
– Build and lead high-performing technical, compliance and quality teams
– Contribute as part of the Mash Direct Senior Leadership Team, reporting on key technical metrics
– Partner with stakeholders to shape compliance, quality, and technical strategies aligned with business goals
– Ensure delivery of projects on time, within budget, and to a high standard
– Act as the technical lead for customer, supplier, and regulatory audits
– Champion a proactive food safety and quality culture throughout the organisation
– Drive continuous improvement across technical functions

Team Management

– Lead, coach, and support the Quality Manager and Compliance & Regulatory Manager
– Build succession planning and capability within the technical team
– Ensure effective communication across departments

Quality Assurance

– Oversee HACCP, BRCGS, GMP, ISO and site hygiene standards
– Monitor and review quality KPIs, taking action where required
– Support resolution of product quality issues, complaints, and non-conformances

Compliance & Regulatory Affairs

– Ensure compliance with food legislation, industry regulations, and customer codes of practice
– Monitor changes in food laws and emerging risks, advising the business accordingly
– Lead or support product recalls, risk assessments, and crisis management

Customer & Supplier Interface

– Act as the senior technical contact for key customers
– Support commercial and NPD teams in launching new products
– Conduct supplier approvals and manage supplier risk assessments

Key Requirements

Education & Qualifications

– Degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or related discipline
– Advanced knowledge of UK and EC regulations, HACCP (Level 4), Food Safety Management Systems, and Quality Assurance

Experience

– Minimum 5 years’ experience in a senior technical leadership role within food manufacturing
– Strong understanding of BRCGS, retailer technical standards, and global food safety regulations
– Proven experience managing teams and leading audits and regulatory visits
– Relationships with major UK food service providers and retailers
– Understanding of enforcement processes and compliance strategies

Skills

– Excellent leadership and influencing skills
– Strong analytical and decision-making abilities
– Ability to communicate technical detail clearly
– Meticulous attention to detail and strong organisational skills
– Confident presenting at Director level

Desirable

– Experience working across chilled, frozen, or ambient categories
– Understanding of sustainability, allergens, or claims compliance in food labelling

To Apply

Email your CV to des@mashdirect.com

Closing date: Friday 27th October @ 12 noon

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

We are an equal opportunity employer.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Mash Direct is an equal opportunities employer