Specialists in Food & Drink Manufacturing Recruitment

JOBSEEKERS

Looking for your next role?

Whether it be Interim or Permanent, look no further! If you have previous experience in the Food and Drink manufacturing industry, we would love to speak with you. Our team connect people with incredible opportunities with innovative start-ups, household names and global brands - workplaces where you can make a real difference.

EMPLOYERS

Hiring for your Team?

We're 100% dedicated to food and drink manufacturing; we know the pressures on your production lines, the seasonality, and the people that can genuinely make a difference. That's why we're trusted with 5⭐ Google reviews from clients and candidates who come back, refer us, and recommend us.

Latest Vacancies.

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NPD/R&D

Packaging Technologist - 12-15mth contract

Greater Manchester

£50000 per year

Permanent

Location: Greater Manchester
Overview: Great opportunity for a Senior Packaging Technologist to join a leading food manufacturer in this unique opportunity. Whilst there is no guarantee, as they are part of a group, there may be opportunities elsewhere after the contract finishes.
Duration: 12 Month Fixed Term Contract


About You:
  • As Packaging Technologist, you will need to demonstrate your packaging experience ideally within flexible packaging and corrugate
  • Understanding of EU packaging legislation
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a collaborative approach.
  • Proactive and organised with a pragmatic approach.
  • The ability to hit the ground running and working at pace with a number of projects on the go at any one time.
What will you be doing?
  • Deliver packaging expertise across the business to ensure they are legal and compliant.
  • Executes development projects to meet the business needs for sustainability, innovation, cost reduction and quality improvements. 
  • Ensure that quality expectations are met in terms of packaging quality and performance
  • As Packaging Technologist, you will be supporting projects where packing expertise is required
  • Create packaging briefs for existing and innovation pipeline

What can they offer you?
This is a great business to work for. Opportunities exist within not only your department but in the wider business too.

We are seeking applications from talented Packaging Technologists, Senior Packaging Technologists, Packaging Technologists, Materials & Packaging Technologists and Packaging Innovation Technologists who live within Greater Manchester and surrounding areas, such as Bolton, Oldham Bury, Rochdale, Stockport, Cheshire and Warrington.

How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting re CH/TNT/3356 or call 0161 399 1575 / 07899 686690 for a confidential discussion.

True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, food manufacturing Engineering jobs, food manufacturing Technical jobs, food manufacturing NPD jobs, food manufacturing Supply Chain jobs and food manufacturing Commercial jobs. We may hold your data, as per our privacy policy detailed on our website.

We are only able to consider candidates who have the full legal right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
HYGIENE

Hygiene Shift Manager

Greater Manchester

c£40,000 per year

Permanent

Location: Greater Manchester 
Overview: This is a great opportunity for an experienced Hygiene Shift Manager/Hygiene Team Leader to join a well-established food manufacturing business. This is an established site and while it is part of a group, it does have a family feel and low staff turnover.

Shifts: Day Shifts

You will report to the Hygiene Manager and manage a team, ensuring effective hygiene standards are delivered across the factory.

About you…

  • The Hygiene Shift Manager will have hygiene experience within a food manufacturer and experience of managing people.
  • Experience of leadership, culture change and people management.
  • You will be IOSH qualified or willing to work towards this along with HACCP & food hygiene.
  • Good understanding of hygiene systems and processes
  • Strong communication, organisation and influencing skills

What will you be doing?

  • Delivering hygiene standards across the site with all customer requirements met
  • Manage and train the hygiene team, ensuring all cleaning activities are completed to schedule and standard
  • As Hygiene Shift Manager/Hygiene Team Leader, you will oversee site facilities including offices, production areas, yards, car parks and external areas
  • Measuring hygiene standards and assessing materials and staff resource needs to ensure maximum effectiveness 
  • Ensure adequate resources, training, and COSHH compliance for all hygiene activities
  • Coordinate subcontracted services including pest control, waste management, laundry, window cleaning and site services
  • Drive continuous improvement in hygiene effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability

So, what can they offer you?
You’ll be joining a business that places food safety, hygiene, and compliance at the heart of its operation. This role offers responsibility, influence, and the opportunity to make a real impact on site standards, culture, and continuous improvement within a progressive food manufacturing environment. There will be scope to develop your career further with a company that promotes a culture of growth.

We are keen to speak with Hygiene Shift Managers, Hygiene Supervisors and Hygiene Team Leaders based within Greater Manchester and surrounding areas, such as Bolton, Oldham Bury, Rochdale, Cheshire and Warrington.

How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting re CH/TNT/3360 or call 0161 399 1575 / 07899 686690 for a confidential discussion.

True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, food manufacturing Engineering jobs, food manufacturing Technical jobs, food manufacturing NPD jobs, food manufacturing Supply Chain jobs and food manufacturing Commercial jobs. We may hold your data, as per our privacy policy detailed on our website.

We are only able to consider candidates who have the legal right to work in the UK. The company cannot offer sponsorship. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.



 

TECHNICAL

Technical Services Manager

South Yorkshire

c£40,000 -45,000 per year

Permanent

Location: South Yorkshire
Overview: This is a rare opportunity to join a strong technical team, and an exciting time to join a great business who are going from strength to strength.

The Role:
•    Interpreting customer codes of practice, ensuring that all new products comply with all legal safety, authenticity, quality, and customer requirements
•    Maintain site QMS and associated documentation in line with changes to legislation, customer and industry standards/codes of practice to assure compliance. 
•    The Technical Services Manager will work predominantly, and very closely with the Technical Manager, New Product Development Manager, commercial and production teams, as well as liaising with team colleagues and other departments.
•    Creating and approving customer packaging requirements
•    Preparing and attending customer meetings, providing technical support for new product submissions

Experience Required:
•    Degree in Food Science or similar with experience in technical services in a fast-paced food environment.
•    The Technical Services Manager will need Lead Auditor/Internal Auditing experience.
•    Experience of working in technical services within a food manufacturing environment
•    Proactive, detail-oriented, and highly organised, with the ability to balance day-to-day needs with long-term objectives.

Company Overview:
This is a fantastic opportunity to work with a forward thinking, proactive and innovative company with recent investment which has resulted in strong and stable growth. This company have a collaborative culture and a focus on progression and development for every level of the business. 

We are seeking applications from talented Technical Service Managers, Compliance Managers and Quality Assurance Managers, Technical Systems Managers, Technical Support & Compliance Managers who live within Sheffield, Huddersfield, Pontefract, Rotherham and the surrounding South Yorkshire areas.

If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting reference CH/TNT/3330 to carole@truenorthtalent.co.uk or phone 0161 399 1575/ 07899 686690 for a confidential discussion.

True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across Operations/Engineering/Technical/NPD/Supply Chain and Commercial. We may hold your data, as per our privacy policy detailed on our website.

We are only able to consider candidates who have the full legal right to work in the UK Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
 

SUPPLY CHAIN

Supply Chain Manager

North-East

£60,000 - 65,000 per year

Permanent

Location: North-East
Overview: We’re looking for a commercially driven and relationship-focused Supply Chain Manager to join a growing and forward-thinking food business based in the North East. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact - leading key category strategies, managing customers, and supporting the company’s growth plans.

About You:

  • As Supply Chain Manager, you will have proven experience in food manufacturing, food service, or retail supply chain.
  • Strong knowledge of category management, working with major retailers
  • Confident communicator with excellent stakeholder management skills.
  • Commercially astute, data-driven, and comfortable making strategic decisions.
  • A collaborative team player who thrives in a fast-paced, growing business.


What will you be doing?

  • Customer relationship management. Build and maintain these relationships managing supply chain queries and delivering exceptional service.
  • The Supply Chain Manager will be acting as key contact for retailers on all supply chain matters.
  • This will be a customer facing role on supply chain matters delivering solutions to deliver service excellence.
  • Working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on supply, quality, and sustainability.
  • Negotiating commercial terms and driving continuous improvement in supply chain processes.
  • Supporting the wider Supply Chain team in achieving best-in-class performance.


What can they offer you?
You’ll be joining a growing food business that’s proud of its strong culture, supportive team environment, and genuine passion for great food. The company values collaboration, innovation and doing things the right way - with plenty of opportunity to make your mark and influence how the supply chain function evolves.

We’re keen to hear from talented Supply Chain Managers, Commercial Supply Chain Managers, End to End Supply Chain Managers and Supply Chain Professionals based in or around the North-East - South Shields, Tyneside, Newcastle, Gateshead or Sunderland.

How to Apply
If this sounds like the next step for you, please send your CV quoting ref CH/TNT/3346 or call Carole on 0161 399 1575 for a confidential chat.

True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, food manufacturing Engineering jobs, food manufacturing Technical jobs, food manufacturing NPD jobs, food manufacturing Supply Chain jobs and food manufacturing Commercial jobs.

We are only able to consider candidates who have the full legal right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
 

TECHNICAL

Technical Manager

Tyne & Wear

£60,000 - £65,000 per year

Permanent

Location: Tyne and Wear
Overview: A leading and growing food company is seeking an experienced Technical Manager to lead and develop their site technical function. This is a key leadership role, responsible for driving food safety, quality standards, BRC compliance and continuous improvement across the business.
This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on Technical Manager who thrives in a busy manufacturing environment and is passionate about developing strong food safety cultures while supporting future business growth.

About You:
• Experienced Technical Manager with a strong background within food manufacturing, ideally chilled food production.
• As Technical Manger, you will have experience  within a Technical or Quality Assurance function, with proven experience managing teams and technical operations.
• Degree level qualification in Food Science or a related subject, with Food Safety Level 3, HACCP Level 3 and Internal Auditor training essential.
• Strong knowledge of BRC Global Food Safety Standards, retailer requirements, customer audits and managing technical compliance.
• Excellent communicator with the ability to influence across all levels of the business, drive improvements and embed a strong food safety culture.

What will you be doing?
• Leading the Technical Department, including QA, Quality Management, Process and Hygiene functions, ensuring all products meet safety, quality and legal requirements.
• Managing and improving the site’s food safety management systems, including HACCP, BRC compliance, audits, root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives.
• As Technical Manager, you will be driving the site’s Quality KPIs, identifying opportunities for improvement and working collaboratively with wider teams to improve performance year on year.
• Leading internal, customer and third-party audits, managing non-conformances and ensuring effective corrective and preventative actions are implemented.
• Supporting product development and launches, ensuring products meet customer specifications, regulatory requirements and site standards.

What can they offer you?
• The opportunity to join a successful and growing food manufacturing business in a key leadership position.
• A role with significant influence, allowing you to shape technical strategy and develop a strong food safety culture across the site.
• The chance to work with major customers and stakeholders while contributing to continuous improvement initiatives across the wider European business.
• A supportive environment with opportunities for career development and progression.
• The opportunity to be part of a business committed to maintaining high standards across food safety, quality and operational excellence.

We are seeking applications from talented Technical Managers, Senior Technical Managers, Quality Managers, Technical Quality Managers, Head of Technical, Technical Services Managers, QA Managers and Food Safety Managers who live within Tyne & Wear, South Shields, Tyneside, Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead, Sunderland and the surrounding areas.

How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting ref CH/TNT/3345. or call 0161 399 1575 / 07899 686690 for a confidential discussion.

True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, food manufacturing Engineering jobs, food manufacturing Technical jobs, food manufacturing NPD jobs, food manufacturing Supply Chain jobs and food manufacturing Commercial jobs. We may hold your data, as per our privacy policy detailed on our website.

We are only able to consider candidates who have the full legal right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
 

OPERATIONS

Continuous Improvement Manager

North West London

£60000 per year

Permanent

Location: North-West London
Overview: We are seeking an experienced and driven Continuous Improvement Manager to join a leading food manufacturing business in London. Reporting directly to the General Manager, you'll take ownership of the site's Continuous Improvement strategy, driving Operational Excellence and embedding a culture of Lean Manufacturing across the business.

As a key member of the Leadership Team, you'll work cross functionally with Engineering, Supply Chain, Technical, Production, Finance and HR to improve safety, quality, service, cost and people performance. This is a fantastic opportunity for a hands on CI professional who thrives on delivering measurable improvements, leading change and developing teams to achieve operational excellence.

About you…
  • Proven experience delivering Continuous Improvement programmes within a food manufacturing or fast paced FMCG environment.
  • Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Operational Excellence and structured problem-solving methodologies, including Root Cause Analysis, 5 Whys and Process Mapping.
  • The Continuous Improvement Manager will have experience leading cross-functional improvement projects and embedding sustainable cultural change.
  • Highly analytical with strong data interpretation skills and advanced Microsoft Excel capability.
  • Excellent communication, coaching and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at all levels of the business.

What will you be doing?
  • Leading the site's Continuous Improvement strategy, ensuring projects align with business objectives and deliver measurable operational improvements.
  • Driving Lean Manufacturing and Operational Excellence initiatives across all departments to improve safety, quality, delivery, cost and people performance.
  • Leading structured problem-solving workshops using Lean tools such as Root Cause Analysis, 5 Whys, Standard Work and Visual Management.
  • Analysing operational data and KPIs to identify performance gaps, waste reduction opportunities and productivity improvements.
  • Managing cross-functional improvement and transformation projects from concept through to implementation, ensuring benefits are delivered and sustained.
  • Developing performance dashboards, reporting progress to the Leadership Team and building robust business cases for improvement initiatives.
  • As Continuous Improvement Manager, you will be coaching managers and teams to develop Continuous Improvement capability and embed a culture of accountability and operational excellence.
  • Building strong working relationships across Engineering, Supply Chain, Technical, Finance, HR and Operations to drive collaboration and continuous improvement across the site.

So, what can they offer you?
This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established and growing food manufacturing business where Continuous Improvement is at the heart of its operational strategy.

You'll become a key member of the Leadership Team with genuine influence over the site's future direction, leading business wide improvement initiatives that deliver tangible operational and financial benefits. The business is committed to investing in its people, systems and processes, providing the autonomy and support needed to make a real impact.

Whether your passion lies in Lean Manufacturing, Operational Excellence, change management or developing high-performing teams, this role offers the opportunity to shape the future of a busy manufacturing site while progressing your own career within a successful and ambitious organisation.

We are keen to speak with experienced Continuous Improvement Managers, Operational Excellence Managers, Lean Managers, CI Managers, Manufacturing Excellence Managers, Lean Six Sigma Managers, Operational Improvement Managers, Project Managers or Operations Managers from the food manufacturing or FMCG sectors who are based in London, Croydon, Dartford, Bromley, Watford, Enfield, Slough, St Albans, Chelmsford or the surrounding areas.

How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting ref JO/TNT/3318 or call 0161 399 1575 / 07830 944145 for a confidential discussion.

True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, food manufacturing Engineering jobs, food manufacturing Technical jobs, food manufacturing NPD jobs, food manufacturing Supply Chain jobs and food manufacturing Commercial jobs. We may hold your data, as per our privacy policy detailed on our website.

We are only able to consider candidates who have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
SUPPLY CHAIN

Supply Chain Planning Manager

Greater Manchester

c£65,000 per year

Permanent

Location: Greater Manchester
Overview: We are recruiting an experienced Supply Chain Planning Manager to join a growing and successful food manufacturing business. Reporting directly to the Head of Supply Chain, you'll lead the Planning, Demand Planning and Materials teams, ensuring accurate forecasting, efficient production planning and seamless material availability across the site.

This is a key leadership role where you'll work cross functionally with Commercial, Operations, Technical, NPD, Logistics and Finance to deliver excellent customer service while optimising inventory, capacity and labour. You'll play a pivotal role in driving continuous improvement, reducing working capital and helping shape the future Supply Chain strategy within the business.

About you…

  • Proven experience as a Planning Manager, Supply Chain Planning Manager or Supply Chain Manager within food manufacturing.
  • Experience leading and developing planning, demand planning or materials teams.
  • Strong understanding of production planning, forecasting, inventory management and capacity planning.
  • As Supply Chain Planning Manager, you will have excellent communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships across multiple departments and customers.
  • Highly analytical, organised and methodical with a proactive approach to problem solving and continuous improvement.


What will you be doing?

  • Leading the Planning, Demand Planning and Materials teams to deliver accurate production plans that maximise service levels and operational efficiency.
  • Working closely with Commercial teams and key retail customers to develop accurate forecasts and ensure production plans meet customer demand.
  • The Supply Chain Planning Manager will be managing material planning and supplier lead times to ensure all raw materials and packaging are available to support production schedules.
  • Collaborating with NPD, Technical, Operations, Warehouse and Logistics teams to ensure successful product launches and effective management of critical paths.
  • Managing promotional planning, seasonal demand and capacity planning to maintain product availability while optimising factory performance.
  • Monitoring inventory levels, managing SKU changes and packaging run-outs to minimise waste and reduce working capital.
  • Driving continuous improvement initiatives across Supply Chain processes while supporting the implementation of new ways of working and strategic business objectives.
  • Coaching, developing and motivating the Supply Chain team through regular performance reviews, objectives and ongoing support.

So, what can they offer you?
This is an excellent opportunity to join a successful and growing food manufacturing business where Supply Chain plays a central role in delivering operational excellence and outstanding customer service.

You'll become part of a collaborative senior leadership team, working across the business to influence strategy, improve planning processes and drive continuous improvement. The business is committed to investing in its people and systems, giving you the autonomy to make a genuine impact while developing your own career.

If you enjoy leading high performing teams, improving planning accuracy and creating efficient supply chain processes within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment, this is a fantastic opportunity to take the next step in your career.

We are keen to speak with experienced Supply Chain Planning Managers, Planning Managers, Supply Chain Managers, Demand Planning Managers, Materials Managers, Production Planning Managers, Supply Chain Leads or Senior Planners from the food manufacturing or FMCG sectors who are based in Manchester, Bolton, Bury, Oldham, Rochdale, Stockport, Warrington, Wigan, Blackburn, Preston or the surrounding areas.

How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting ref JO/TNT/3327 or call 0161 399 1575 / 07830 944145 for a confidential discussion.

True North Talent is recognised as a trusted supplier of permanent, contract and interim recruitment services to the food manufacturing and FMCG industries. Our teams of specialist recruiters operate across food manufacturing Operations Jobs, food manufacturing Engineering jobs, food manufacturing Technical jobs, food manufacturing NPD jobs, food manufacturing Supply Chain jobs and food manufacturing Commercial jobs. We may hold your data, as per our privacy policy detailed on our website.

We are only able to consider candidates who have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
 

Food Industry Specialists

True North Talent are specialists in the food and drink manufacturing industry, with a dedicated and experienced team of experts delivering interim and permanent recruitment solutions to organisations from independent start-ups, SMEs to global food companies. From leveraging our extensive network of experienced professionals to connect you with your ideal interim hire to carrying out an exclusive search for your next director level or executive hire, we’ve got you covered.

With our wealth of knowledge in the sector and our relationships with some of the best in the industry, please get in touch to find out more about how we can connect you with your perfect candidate and take your business to the next level.

Food Recruitment Consultants

True North Talent was born from a shared passion for building strong relationships and delivering outstanding talent solutions for the food and drink manufacturing industry. Our mission is simple: to help individuals and businesses realise their true potential.

We know that finding the right talent goes beyond just matching the right skills and experience and understand that, when building successful teams and careers, one size doesn't fit all. That's why our consultancy solutions are bespoke and tailored to your unique needs and specific goals.

Above all, it’s our unwavering commitment that sets our consultancy apart. We are dedicated to your success and we always go the extra mile to deliver exceptional results.

Are you ready to find your True North?

qualified professionals in our network

placements across the whole food and drinks industry

of our candidates still in their role after 6 months.

average turnaround time to have an interim on site

Specialisms.

We’re not generalists. We know the Food & Drink industry inside & out. That means less time wasted, better cultural fit and a stronger, more motivated workforce. Our network is extensive, our process is streamlined and our results speak for themselves.

View all Specialisms

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Operations

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Operations teams drive production efficiency, safety, and quality. It includes planning production lines, managing supply chains, and improving factory operations. Teams hit performance targets, control costs, ensure food safety compliance, and meet retailer demands. Skilled professionals keep production smooth and adapt to market changes. We help companies recruit talent for middle and senior management Operations and Manufacturing roles.

Trusted by the best.

Our priority is to build long lasting relationships built on trust.
These are a few of our clients who have trusted us with their recruitment and who we love working with.

What do people have to say?

See what our clients and candidates have to say about working with us:

View more testimonials

After dealing with TNT for the first time, I have found the customer service skills of the business exceptional.

Ellie has been brilliant as my consultant and her communication throughout the process is been great- highly recommend!

Keep up the good work guys!

 
 

Interim Hygiene Manager

1/20

Emma was great - she checked in regularly and gave me all the information I need to make the transition into a new role seamless.

Very friendly and professional service.

 
 

Head of Technical

1/20

I had an excellent experience with True North Talent throughout the recruitment process. From the very beginning, India was professional, informative, and incredibly supportive. She kept me updated at every stage, provided clear communication, and was always available to answer any questions I had.

India's guidance and encouragement made the entire process smooth and stress-free, and her commitment to finding the right opportunity was evident throughout. I felt valued as a candidate and appreciated the personal approach and genuine care shown along the way.

I would highly recommend True North Talent to anyone looking for a professional, knowledgeable, and supportive recruitment partner. Thank you, India, for making the experience such a positive one.

 
 

Engineering Manager

1/20

Special thanks to Cleo. Works tirelessly and is relentless in securing you that contract, always on the look out when quiet. Always keeping you informed. There's no ghosting in the vocabulary here, unlike some other outfits I've dealt with. Easily the best interim specialists I've dealt with in years.

Personally I look forward to a long lasting professional relationship and I couldn't be happier working with TNT, especially Cleo. Massive appreciation and thanks for all the hard work you put in behind the scenes; it's absolutely not unnoticed.

 
 

Interim Production Manager

1/20

Absolute pleasure to work with Josh who was very attentive & interested in my needs throughout . He came to me with a job that was a perfect fit for me and my career.

I thought that Josh gave great advice, was extremely helpful & professional at all stages of the process. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Josh to anyone currently exploring new opportunities.

Materials Planner

1/20

A first class service from initial contact through to contract. Lots of communication, which has continued beyond starting my contract. Any questions or queries from me and Cleo would have an answer quickly.

Interim HR Advisor

1/20

Amazing company, the professionalism, kindness and support from Carole was outstanding, she made everything happen so smoothly; the best experience ever!

Senior Process Technologist

1/20

Amelia is an outstanding recruiter who truly goes above and beyond. From our very first conversation, it was clear that she not only understood the job market but also took the time to understand my career goals and match me with the perfect opportunity.

Her attention to detail, constant communication, and genuine commitment to my success made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Thanks to her expertise, I secured a job that I absolutely love. If you're looking for a recruiter who is professional, dedicated, and a pleasure to work with, Amelia is the one you need.

Associate Health & Safety Manager

1/20

Amelia was fantastic; frequent communication and kept me up to date throughout the interview process. Even when I had questions that kept popping up in my head, Amelia was there to answer them promptly. Provided all the information that I needed when I needed it.

Highly recommend!

Manufacturing Shift Leader

1/20

Amy has for several years been an excellent recruiter in the Food Industry. Amy's True North Talent secured for me my latest contract, with excellent communication and understanding throughout the process.

Amy's understanding of my own extensive career and the key attributes of the candidate her client required, helped to ensure she connected the right person to the right job.

Interim Project Manager

1/20

Amy supported me 100% through the process of securing my interim role. Throughout the conversations Amy ensured she covered all the aspects that were required/important to me - days per week/hybrid working/location etc.

Nothing was too much trouble. Communication, whether verbally or by email/text, was informative and speedy. Amy, thank you.

Interim NPD Manager

1/20

Amy was recommended to me when I needed help recruiting an interim at short notice. From the moment I reached out, Amy was super helpful, easy to talk to, checked in at regular frequencies and never took her foot off the gas.

We have now found a candidate and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Amy to anyone looking for support recruiting interims!

 

Head of NPD

1/20

An incredible recruiting team, knowledgeable, caring and above all else unlike many other recruiters, they actually contact you if a position you applied for was not successful. They treat you with the respect you deserve.

They learn about you and speak with you as a credible and knowledgeable person, an actual conversation that feels real. They are there to help you no matter the time or day. You feel as though you’re valued and not just another tick in the box.

A recruitment company that cares and respects!!!

Hygiene Manager

1/20

As a company, we have worked with Amelia on many roles across our company and sites and across a very broad range of functional areas.
Amelia has an excellent ability to grasp the story behind our company and our recruitment needs, and hence the fit required both at company and at specific team levels.

This results in us receiving highly tailored, and hence highly appropriate, candidate shortlists, minimising the time and effort we need to allocate to the process.

From a personal perspective, Amelia is a pleasure to deal with. Communication is excellent, and Amelia always does what she says she is going to do (a rarity in recruitment!).  We certainly would always look to True North Talent for our recruitment needs – and Amelia will always be my first port of call.

Technical Director

1/20

Carole did an amazing job helping us source a new member of the team. Sending candidates with the required skills and knowledge, there was no flooding of unsuitable candidates, which was really refreshing. I felt Carole really understood our business culture too, as this is a huge part  of who we are and essential to the candidate succeeding.

Highly recommend True North Talent and is my first port of call now. 

HR Manager

1/20

Carole was fantastic, found a great opportunity for me.

Thank you

Shift Manager

1/20

Carole was my consultant. She is a nice lady and very helpful. She called me to discuss the job and after this our journey started. She gave me all the details about the job, was always available when I needed her and making sure that everything was ok.

Highly recommend, such a pleasure to work with Carole. Thank you Carole, we will keep in touch!

Production Manager

1/20

I worked with Amy on my recent assignment. I can safely say she has restored my faith in the world of recruitment consulting. Professional, open and honest and a great asset to her business.

Keep up the great work.

Interim Engineering Manager

1/20

Absolutely fantastic to work with. Carole was so friendly and personable. Would definitely recommend True North Talent again and again. The attention that is paid to actually listen to what you want from a job and to understand your needs is a breath of fresh air.

Thank you for helping me secure a position that I am so looking forward to starting. True North Talent (Carole) thank you for helping me find light in a pretty dark tunnel.  It has been a pleasure to work with you. 

Technical Services Lead

1/20

Emma Symonds has been an absolutely pleasure to work with!. She was friendly, personable and asked thought provoking questions to ensure I was well suited for the organization.

Would highly recommend connecting with Emma.

General Manager

1/20

Frequently Asked Questions.

HOW DO YOU SCREEN YOUR CANDIDATES?

  • All candidates undergo a thorough screening process, including in-depth interviews, reference checks, and sector-specific assessments to ensure the best fit for you.

WHAT'S DIFFERENT ABOUT TRUE NORTH TALENT?

  • We’re sector specialists, not generalists. Our team has hands-on experience in the food and drink industry, allowing us to offer unmatched insights and understanding.

HOW QUICKLY CAN YOU FILL A ROLE?

  • With our True North Interim solution, we can often present qualified, available candidates within hours. Literally!

DO YOU SUPPORT ANY CHARITABLE CAUSES?

  • For every successful placement, we have pledged to donate 200 meals to families in need in support of FareShare, the UK’s longest running food redistribution charity.

Latest Insights.

Read More Insights

Explore our latest market insights on all things food and drink manufacturing.

The Biggest Hiring Challenges Facing UK Food and Drink Manufacturers in 2026

The Biggest Hiring Challenges Facing UK Food and Drink Manufacturers in 2026

The pressure on UK food and drink manufacturers has never been more visible from a talent perspective. Production lines are running short-handed. Technical vacancies are sitting open for months. Middle management layers that should be your most stable operational bedrock are the very roles that are hardest to fill, and the hardest to retain when you do. This isn't a recruitment problem. It's a business continuity problem wearing a recruitment problem's overalls. With consumer demand fragmenting across plant-based, functional foods, premium ready meals, and low/no alcohol categories, and with automation beginning to reshape what skills you actually need on the floor, the talent landscape in 2026 looks nothing like it did five years ago. The manufacturers who are winning commercially are the ones who've already made that connection.  

The Role of Data in Optimising Factory Performance

The Role of Data in Optimising Factory Performance

How Food Manufacturing will Shape Up in 2026 The UK food and drink manufacturing industry shows no signs of slowing down in 2026. If anything, the pace of change is accelerating. With rapid advances in technology, evolving consumer expectations, ongoing supply chain pressures and tighter margins, manufacturers are being challenged to do far more than simply stand still. Success now depends on being agile, forward-thinking and ready to adapt quickly. At True North Talent, we’re in constant conversation with industry leaders, hiring managers and professionals across the sector. That gives us a real, on-the-ground view of how the landscape is shifting - and what businesses need to stay competitive in the years ahead. The Role of Data in Optimising Factory Performance In food and drink manufacturing, margins are tight, customer expectations are high, and downtime is expensive. Everyone talks about working smarter, but what does that actually look like on the factory floor? More often than not, the answer is data. Used properly, data isn’t just numbers on a dashboard – it’s one of the most powerful tools manufacturers have to improve performance, reduce waste and make better decisions, faster. Turning information into insight Most factories are already sitting on huge amounts of data. Production outputs, downtime logs, quality checks, waste levels, labour hours – it’s all there. The challenge is turning that information into something meaningful. When teams can clearly see where time is being lost, where waste is creeping in, or where quality issues keep reoccurring, improvement stops being guesswork. Decisions become fact-based rather than reactive, which is when real operational gains start to happen. Reducing downtime and improving efficiency One of the biggest wins from better data use is reducing downtime. Tracking machine performance and identifying patterns can help spot issues before they become failures. Predictive maintenance, for example, allows engineering teams to fix problems early rather than reacting after a line has already stopped. On the production side, data helps highlight bottlenecks, balance lines more effectively, and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Small improvements, consistently applied, can make a big difference to output and cost. Supporting quality and food safety Data also plays a critical role in maintaining food safety and quality standards. Real-time monitoring, trend analysis, and accurate reporting make it easier to stay compliant and audit ready. More importantly, they help teams prevent issues rather than firefight them. When quality teams have clear visibility of recurring issues, they can focus on root cause analysis and long-term solutions, not just short-term fixes. The people behind the data Technology and systems are only part of the story. Data is only as good as the people interpreting it and acting on it. As factories become more data-driven, there’s growing demand for managers, engineers and operations leaders who are comfortable working with data and translating insight into action. This shift is changing the skill sets businesses need – combining operational know-how with analytical thinking and strong leadership on the factory floor. Making data work for your operation The most successful manufacturers don’t collect data for the sake of it. They focus on the metrics that genuinely impact performance, communicate them clearly, and embed them into daily decision-making. How True North Talent Can Help At True North Talent, we work with food and drink manufacturers who are building data-led operations and need the right people to make that happen. Whether it’s operations leaders, engineers or technical specialists, having the right talent in place is just as important as the systems themselves. 👉 Because in the end, data doesn’t optimise factories – people do    

Reducing Waste & Boosting Profitability in Manufacturing Operations

Reducing Waste & Boosting Profitability in Manufacturing Operations

The Future of Food: Trends, Tech and Changing Tastes in 2025 The UK food and drink manufacturing industry is always moving and in 2025, the pace feels faster than ever. With new technology, shifting consumer demands and constant pressure to stay competitive, manufacturers are being asked to do more than just keep up. They need to be forward-thinking, agile and ready to adapt. At True North Talent, we spend our time speaking to leaders, candidates and businesses across the industry. That means we’ve got a front-row seat to the changes shaping the sector right now. In our seventh article, we look at operational excellence and what that includes in food and drink manufacturing. Reducing Waste & Boosting Profitability in Manufacturing Operations In food and drink manufacturing, margins are often tight. Rising costs, supply chain pressures and growing sustainability expectations mean businesses can’t afford inefficiencies on the production floor. That’s where operational excellence comes in 24/7 and one of the biggest opportunities lies in reducing waste. Why Reducing Waste Matters Waste doesn’t just mean throwing away ingredients. It’s also about lost production time, inefficient processes and even underused talent. Every bit of waste impacts the bottom line, from energy costs and packaging to labour hours. With consumer and retailer expectations higher than ever, reducing waste isn’t just good for the planet, it’s vital for profitability. We are hearing from clients who are putting an emphasis on turning waste into value and projects that are designed to aid food and drink businesses harness the untapped potential of food waste to create new revenue streams and reduce the sector’s environmental footprint. Where the Biggest Gains Are Found Manufacturers leading the way are focusing on: * Smarter processes: lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives that cut out bottlenecks. * Technology and automation: using data, AI and sensors to spot inefficiencies before they become costly. * People-first thinking: empowering teams to spot issues early and drive improvements on the line. The Role of Talent Operational excellence doesn’t happen without the right people. Businesses need leaders who can embed continuous improvement into culture, engineers who understand modern automation and managers who balance efficiency with quality. Finding and developing that blend of skills is what turns good factories into great ones. How True North Talent Can Help At True North Talent, we understand that reducing waste and boosting profitability is as much about people as it is about process. We connect food and drink manufacturers with the operations, engineering and leadership talent who make these changes stick. Whether it’s interim specialists to deliver a lean transformation project, or permanent hires to lead ongoing improvements, we’ve got you covered. 👉 Cutting waste. 👉 Building stronger teams. 👉 Driving profitability. That’s what operational excellence looks like when you have the right talent in place.