Carole Hearn

Carole Hearn

Executive Consultant

Bio

I feel incredibly lucky to work in an industry that excites me and I have a real interest in. I love how the market changes to meet consumers demand for new concepts, tastes and flavours. Who wouldn’t want to discuss food and drink all day long?

From the initial meetings with my clients to those I have met and worked with multiple times, I have the same enthusiasm from that first call as I do 22 years later.

I love seeing candidates grow through their careers and go from their early roles to senior levels within their disciplines. It has also been an absolute pleasure to place candidates on multiple occasions throughout their career.

Outside of work I love to eat out with friends and look forward to trying new restaurants as they open in the area. I also love to travel and have been lucky to visit some fabulous countries and destinations.

Home life is in the suburbs (I spent 17 years in the City Centre before this). I love where I live and the fact I am just 10 minutes from the city centre by train for work is perfect. I am an animal lover and have 2 British Short Hair cats. 

 

Dream dinner trio:

  • Claudia Winkleman
  • Michelle Visage
  • Debbie Harry

 

On the menu:

  • Chicken satay
  • Black cod with tender stem broccoli and sticky rice
  • Crème Brulee

 

Get in touch with Carole .

Use this form to send us a message, and we’ll get back to you shortly.

Testimonials.

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

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

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

Had an absolutely wonderful experience working with Carole helping me find a new job, always professional and friendly. I felt supported throughout the whole process.

I would definitely recommend.

Quality Compliance Manager

1/20

I had an excellent experience with True North Talent. Carole made me feel confident in my abilities from the very beginning, providing reassurance about my CV and career prospects. She kept me updated with regular check-ins and was always supportive and encouraging throughout my job search.

I genuinely felt that my career was in safe hands. If I need career support again in the future, I will definitely return to True North Talent and would happily recommend them to others.

Shift Production Manager

1/20

I had the pleasure of working with Carole and Amelia when seeking a new role and they were both outstanding. From our very first conversation, they took the time to understand my career aspirations and skill set, tailoring their approach to match me with the perfect opportunity.

Their communication was prompt and transparent throughout the process, and they offered invaluable advice that helped me feel confident at every stage. Thanks to their expertise and diligence, I was offered multiple roles before ultimately settling on one that aligns perfectly with my future goals.

I highly recommend both Carole, Amelia and True North Talent as a whole and would recommend them to anyone seeking recruitment professionals that truly goes above and beyond.

Thank you for your help. I truly appreciate it.

Plant Manager

1/20

I had a fantastic experience working with Carole throughout my recent job search. She is highly professional, supportive and genuinely cares about finding the right match. Communication was excellent at every stage and her guidance and encouragement made the whole process smooth and stress-free.

I’m truly grateful for her support and would highly recommend Carole to anyone looking for a dedicated and reliable recruiter.

Production Manager

1/20

I’ve had a fantastic experience working with True North Talent and Carole. Carole is fantastic at what she does, she couldn’t do enough for me, always available to answer any of my questions or queries and really very personable and down to earth.

It’s been an absolute pleasure and I would highly recommend. Complete professional. Thank you.

 

 

CI Manager

1/20

It has been an outstanding experience working with Carole throughout this job search. She maintained consistent and proactive communication, offering insightful and constructive guidance at every stage of the application process.

Her expertise and support made the entire experience feel smooth, focused, and far less stressful than expected. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking new opportunities.

HSE Manager

1/20

It has been a pleasure to be supported throughout the recruiting journey. I have been kept informed of progress by Carole, even when there hasn’t been any.

Very positive experience, other recruiters could learn a great deal from True North Talent.

Health & Safety Manager

1/20

I worked with Carole from True North Talent to secure a new role & she has been unbelievably fantastic. She was supportive, friendly & communicated excellently.

Couldn’t recommend her enough.

Shift Manager

1/20

My experience of True North Talent has been entirely positive. Carole was so friendly, personable and knowledgeable of her client and the role she hoped to place me in. The recruitment process itself and the communication from Carole throughout the process has been exceptional. From first contact with Carole to the receipt of an offer took 7 days. I am so genuinely grateful, and I am really looking forward to my new role.

Thank you, Carole and True North Talent, it has been a pleasure!

Maintenance Manager

1/20

My experience with Carole at True North Talent has been exceptional. True professional that has genuine interest in the person attached to that CV and their future aspirations. Outstanding personable service that makes you feel valued, understood and looked after. 

Carole maintained contact by phone, ensuring that I went for an interview well-informed on executive detail and in the best frame of mind, whilst keeping it realistic, humble and down to earth - preparing me for both outcomes until the last minute.

Exceptional service and client care. I will highly recommend TNT to my network and beyond. Many thanks.

Technical Manager

1/20

My experience with True North Talent has been brilliant from start to finish. Carole has made the whole process so smooth and seamless and has put me at ease throughout the whole experience. Carole's friendly and professional approach has been really refreshing. I couldn't thank True North Talent enough for approaching me about a role working for a fantastic company.

Carole's communication has been perfect throughout and I am going to miss our little chats!

Compliance & Document Technologist

1/20

My experience with True North Talent has been exceptional. My consultant was Carole. It was great to be being helped to find a job by someone who clearly cared. Carole did exactly what she said she would. She kept me updated on all progress. Even if there was no progress she still rang and spoke to me. It was so nice for someone to maintain that contact by phone and actually speak to me.

She was friendly, helpful always professional and importantly only a phone call away.

CI Manager

1/20

The best experience ever. Carole helped me during the process and updated me on the progress.

Thank you, and keep up the good work.

Regional HSE Advisor

1/20

Well what can I say Carole was absolutely brilliant throughout the whole process. She kept me informed and always took into consideration what my expectations were.

I would definitely recommend TNT and Carole to anyone looking for employment, or exploring new opportunities. Thank you for everything.

 

Health & Safety Manager

1/20

The best experience ever. Carole helped me during the process and updated me on the progress.

Thank you and keep up the good work.

Health & Safety Manager

1/20

Carole's Jobs

View all jobs

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

OPERATIONS

Shift Manager

Merseyside

c£60,000 per year plus Benefits

Permanent

Location: Merseyside
Overview: An established and forward-thinking food manufacturing business based in Merseyside is looking for a proactive Shift Manager to support the production team as the site continues to grow. 
This is a Day & Night 12hr Shift Pattern.


About You:

  • This will suit a Shift Manager who has done an apprenticeship or a graduate scheme, ideally in food manufacturing.
  • Someone who does what they say they will do and who can really add value to their department.
  • A passion in developing talent and working in a continuous improvement culture.
  • Reasonable experience working as a shift leader, ideally within food manufacturing.
  • As a Shift Manager you will need to possess a track record in delivering results.


What will you be doing?

  • In this role you will drive a team by coaching and developing them to achieve results
  • Lead by example ensuring safety always comes first
  • The successful Shift Manager will inspire and lead your team to deliver and become the best shift in the business
  • Deliver weekly & monthly KPIs on waste, cost, food safety and cost control
  • Optimise the production plan to ensure you maximise capacity and cost effective


What can they offer you?
This is a great business to join as they really invest in the people and support development and growth. While this is a shift-based role there will be opportunities in the company to develop.

We are seeking applications from talented Shift Managers, Shift Leaders, Assistant Shift Managers, Shift Team Leaders, Front Line Managers or Team Managers, who live within Merseyside, Liverpool, Birkenhead, Warrington, Cheshire, Greater Manchester and the surrounding areas.

How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting re CH/TNT/3138 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. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.
 

SUPPLY CHAIN

Procurement Manager

Greater Manchester

c£60,000 per year

Permanent

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

About You:

  • Proven experience in food manufacturing, food service, or retail procurement.
  • Strong knowledge of category management, supplier negotiation and contract management.
  • As the Procurement Manager, you will be a 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?

  • Developing and delivering category strategies across key food, beverage and non-food areas.
  • As the Procurement Manager, you will be managing supplier relationships, driving value and innovation.
  • Monitoring market trends and commodity pricing to support commercial and strategic decisions.
  • Working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on supply, quality and sustainability.
  • Negotiating commercial terms and driving continuous improvement in procurement processes.
  • Supporting the wider Procurement and 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 procurement function evolves.
This role offers a hybrid working pattern (1 day per week from home), alongside real scope for career development and progression. You’ll also have access to professional development support, including CIPS training, and the chance to work with an experienced, ambitious team in a business that’s going places.
We’re keen to hear from talented Procurement Managers, Senior Buyers, Category Managers and Purchasing Managers based in or around Greater Manchester, Stockport, Bolton, Bury, Cheshire, Rochdale or Oldham

How to Apply
If this sounds like the next step for you, please send your CV quoting ref CH/TNT/3109 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.
 

NPD/R&D

Process Development Technologist

Greater Manchester, UK

£40,000 per annum

Permanent

Location: Greater Manchester
Overview: Our client has had a huge amount of change these past 24 months, all lead by the Senior Team and all very much for the positive. 
As a result, their Process teams are expanding and they’re now looking for Process Technologists seeking a new challenge. 

Key Responsibilities:
•    As the Process Technologist, you will support the NPD Manager on trials, capture key metrics and ensure seamless integration into the factory.
•    Take ownership of bringing new products through to a successful launch. 
•    Consistently identify opportunities for efficiency enhancement and yield improvements.
•    Develop and manage internal documentation and templates for all processes.
•    Drive initiatives to enhance product quality, meeting and exceeding industry standards.
•    Develop and strengthen relationships with cross-functional teams and external customers.

Qualifications and Experience:
•    Proven track record in a process technologist position within food manufacturing including practical, hands-on factory trials experience.
•    As Process Technologist, you will be detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills.
•    Ability to work alone, or as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
•    Able to demonstrate where you have previously made cost savings, yield improvements and efficiency enhancements.
•    Preferably hold a degree in a science-based subject.

Benefits:
•    Chance to work with a forward-thinking and innovative company.
•    Engaging and supportive work environment.
•    Strong core values across the business. 
•    Continuous professional development and growth opportunities.

We are seeking applications from talented Process Technologists, Senior Process Technologists, Process Development Assistant, NPD Techs who live within Greater Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Bury, Blackburn, Bolton, Stockport, Wigan, Cheshire.

How to Apply:
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting re CH/TNT/2770 or phone 0161 399 1575 or 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.

NPD/R&D

Packaging Technologist

Merseyside, UK

£40,000- 45,000 per year

Permanent

Location: Merseyside
Overview: Great opportunity for a Packaging Technologist to join a leading food manufacturer in this unique opportunity.

About You:

  • You will need to be qualified in material science, engineering or another science-based subject
  • As Packaging Technologist, you will possess experience in food, FMCG packaging
  • An interest and knowledge of sustainability
  • Exceptional organisational skills
  • Excellent communication skills

What will you be doing?

  • Day to day support the NPD Team, trials, sample request, specification requests, speak to suppliers, artwork review.
  • Managing packaging development trials and launches.
  • You will work collaboratively across the teams in the business and packaging suppliers.
  • The successful Packaging Technologist will build strong relationships with packaging suppliers and keep up to date with all packaging trends
  • Liaise with suppliers to ensure specifications and legal requirements are met.  


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, Sustainable Packaging Technologists, Junior Packaging Technologists, Materials & Packaging Technologists and Packaging Innovation Technologists who live within Merseyside, Birkenhead, Liverpool, Ellesmere Port, Chester

How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting re CH/TNT/2680 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.
 

ENGINEERING
OPERATIONS

Project Engineering Manager

Preston, UK

Salary: c£64,000

Permanent

Location: Preston
Overview: Our client, a leader in the FMCG manufacturing sector, is seeking a motivated and experienced Engineering Project Manager to join their team. This role offers an opportunity to positively influence the efficient operation of the manufacturing facility and lead major investment programmes.

About You:
•    You will be qualified in Engineering Project Management 
•    Strong problem-solving skills
•    The successful Project Manager will have excellent interpersonal & communication skills
•    Establish and build relationships with all departments in the company
•    A team player who is self-motivated

What will you be doing?
•    Drive the completion of capital-based projects to enhance the manufacturing facility's operability.
•    Undertake risk assessments for buildings, equipment, and processes prior to installation.
•    Managing project finance budgets, cost-benefit analyses, and financial controls.
•    As Engineering Manager, you will monitor and review project timeline, identifying and mitigating risks where necessary.
•    Implement continuous improvement initiatives to support department and operational KPIs.
•    Define and endorse safe working practices within all operating procedures.

What can they offer you?
They can offer a good salary and package. Looking to further develop yourself? They will encourage and support that too. This is your opportunity to work for a manufacturer who really are number one in their product sector.  

We are seeking applications from talented Engineering Project Managers, Project Engineers, Lead Project Engineer who live within Preston, Bolton, Wigan, Chorley, Blackburn and Lancashire. 

How to Apply
If you have the desired qualifications and experience, please send your CV quoting re CH/TNT/2658. 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 full legal right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we can only contact successful applicants.