ABP Technical Graduate Programme

Within ABPtechnicalgraduates can expect to spend time in all areas of the business with particular focus on the abattoir, boning hall, and retail practices. Focus will be primarilyon food safety using HACCP principles. There will also be a large focus on product quality and the quality management system, including the procedures used within the manufacturing process.

We would expect Technical graduates to aim for their first junior management role within the technical department; this could include QA management or technical management.

The role of a technical manager involves:

  • The management and development of QA staff and their functions.
  • The management of aspects of food safety, legality, and quality within the manufacturing sites.
  • Development and maintenance of a quality management system and procedures within the food manufacturing environment to ensure the high internal and customer expectations are met or exceeded at all times.
  • The assistance in new and existing product development
  • Ensure all products conform to or exceed the agreed customer specifications.
  • To manage and develop an internal audit schedule against the BRC and other assurance schemes related to the industry.
  • Carry out audits on site and with raw material and packaging suppliers

Below is a table of qualities that a technical manager is expected to possess:

Requirement / Description
Professional skills /
  • Track record of leadership
  • Ability to build relationships with customers
  • Be thorough and methodical in approach to tasks
  • Possess good administrative skills
  • Ability to coach and develop staff
  • Excellent project & time management skills
  • Excellent interpersonal & communication skills at all levels.
  • Able to work both as an individual & a team player.
  • Good computer literacy
  • Demonstrate an above standard knowledge & understanding of food (functionality, ingredients and ingredient suppliers).
  • Experience of giving presentations
  • Demonstrate a track record of effective functional man management and retail/food service account management.

Qualifications /
  • Education to degree level in a food related discipline e.g. Food Science / Technology, Food & Nutrition

Areas of knowledge /
  • Food Hygiene Regulations and / or legal requisites for food manufacture
  • It would be desirable to possess BRC, QMS, & retailer knowledge

Attributes /
  • Experience of delivering to the exacting requirements of major retailers
  • Previous customer contact with specific retailers
  • Agronomic or agricultural background
  • Understanding of food schemes

Interested applicants should apply in writing to Mandy Thompson, Graduate Development Manager.

closing date for applications Monday 18th March 2013