Group Head of Technical

For a complete understanding of this opportunity, and what will be required to be a successful applicant, read on. Multi-site (UK-based) Nutritional feed solutions company Ready to take ownership of technical excellence across a complex, integrated, and ambitious agricultural business? We’re looking to recruit a Group Head of Technical to lead and evolve the technical function of a forward-thinking, multi-site Nutritional feed solutions company. This is a newly created, high-impact leadership role offering the opportunity to shape the future of technical governance, compliance, and quality across the group. As a key member of the senior leadership team, you will have strategic ownership of technical governance, product quality, compliance, and formulation excellence across a vertically integrated agricultural business. Your remit will extend beyond manufacturing to encompass retail, procurement, third-party operations, and both internal and external production, ensuring consistency and integrity across every product and process. You will lead a team of technical professionals, creating a culture of accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement. With your leadership, the business will not only meet industry standards — it will exceed them. Key Responsibilities: Lead the technical function across multiple manufacturing facilities, ensuring consistency, rigour, and best-in-class practices. Develop and implement a group-wide Quality Management System (QMS) that goes beyond compliance, setting a higher internal benchmark across all operations. Drive technical alignment across a complex value chain including retail operations, procurement, and third-party manufacturing partners. Oversee the delivery of nutritionally sound, commercially optimised animal feed, fertiliser, and other product formulations, ensuring both performance and compliance. Ensure full regulatory compliance with FEMAS, ISO, UFAS, and customer-specific standards. Inspire and lead a high-performing technical team, holding them accountable while empowering innovation and professional growth. Act as the technical conscience of the business, embedding robust governance frameworks and forward-thinking best practices. Work cross-functionally with commercial and operational teams to unlock value and support strategic decision-making. What We’re Looking For: MSc or PhD in Animal Nutrition, Agriculture, Food Science, or a related field. Significant experience in a senior technical leadership role within feed manufacturing, or a similarly regulated sector. In-depth understanding of quality assurance frameworks and compliance standards (e.g., FEMAS, ISO, UFAS). Proven experience in multi-site governance, including external manufacturing and vertically integrated operations. A strong and transparent leadership style, capable of building buy-in, driving change, and embedding new ways of working. Commercially astute, with the ability to balance scientific integrity and business goals.