Customer Technical Manager
Industry:
Fresh Produce based in Kent
Product Knowledge:
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Fresh produce products
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Stone Fruit - desirable
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Berries - desirable
We are looking for a Customer Technical Manager to join one of the largest Fresh Produce companies in the World. The Retail supply division based in Kent, has a strong presence with UK Retailers; needless to say, this is matched by the expertise and scope of their Quality and Technical Team.
As a Technical Manager you will have a level of technical qualifications and working practice, the Company will ensure your training continues to ensure you really are ‘Best in Class’. The areas of likely training required will cover: HACCP, BRC, Due Diligence, Clarifruit AI, Sustainability M2030 / Carbon accounting, Auditing, Food Safety + Hygiene, H+S compliance, pesticide Management, Packaging sustainability, Agronomy, IPM, Water Management, Biodiversity, Production, R+D – New varieties, R+D – Sustainability projects. This is a company that will ensure you have the tools to perform with confidence and clarity.
Key Responsibilities:
Product Management: Oversee the management of fresh produce products, ensuring quality and consistency.
Third Party Coordination: Work closely with third-party packers to ensure efficient packing and quality maintenance.
Customer Complaints and Improvements: Manage and resolve customer complaints, continually seeking ways to improve product quality and customer satisfaction.
Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement initiatives to meet and exceed quality expectations.
Customer and Product Benchmarking: Conduct benchmarking for customers and products to maintain high standards.
Customer Servicing and Relationship Building: Develop and maintain strong relationships with customers through regular store visits, sample distributions, and new initiatives.
Cross-Functional Reporting: Collaborate with various departments to provide comprehensive reports on product quality and customer feedback.
Supplier Audits: Conduct service provider and supplier audits to ensure compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
Supplier and Customer Visits: Support and manage visits from suppliers and customers, showcasing product quality and company capabilities.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Maintain all necessary legal and regulatory due diligence documents.
Contributions:
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Gross Margin Contribution: Your role will directly contribute to the company's gross margin through effective product and customer management.
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R&D Involvement: Participate in Company sponsored research and development initiatives to shape the future of food products.
Skills and Attributes:
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Communication: Excellent communication skills to interact effectively with customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
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Energetic and Quick Learner: Demonstrate enthusiasm and the ability to quickly adapt to new information and processes.
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Problem Solving: Strong problem-solving skills to address and resolve issues efficiently.
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Organized and Independent Thinker: Highly organized with the ability to work independently and make quick and informed decisions.
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Flexibility: Adaptability to changing situations and requirements.
Technical Skills:
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Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and PowerPoint.
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Knowledge of the fresh produce supply chain and due diligence requirements.
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Support continuous improvement (CI) and process enhancement initiatives.
Requirements:
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Driving License: Valid driving license.
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Travel: Willingness to travel abroad as required.
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Previous experience in a similar technical role within the fresh produce industry is expected.
The company is offering an excellent Salary + Bonus, Life Assurance and company benefits.
This role offers the opportunity to be part of a dynamic team, where your contributions will directly impact the company's success. If you are an organized, energetic, and independent thinker with a passion for fresh produce, we encourage you to apply.
Please send your CV to me Frank Kinsella – (email address removed) (just .co) and if you would like a chat about the role please call me on +44(0) (phone number removed)