Quality, NPD, and Technical Lead

at  Tarquins Gin

JOB OPPORTUNITY: QUALITY, NPD, AND TECHNICAL LEAD

We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with relevant experience to come and join us as part of a dynamic and exciting company. We are looking for a candidate with experience in a relevant industry such as distilling, brewing, food manufacturing or other FMCG production settings.
You will be passionate about what you do and keen to learn new skills with the support of our team as well as develop on your own. The successful applicant will be expected to work cross departmentally liaising with Distilling, Packaging, Warehouse, Marketing and Procurement.
Based in our fast-paced production area, you will be working independently, but alongside multi-skilled colleagues, to become a valued member of the team. This is an excitingly varied role, in small but dynamic and rapidly growing company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain and improve quality systems, adhering to SALSA or similar accreditations.
• Lead the development of new products in line with our NPD program.
• Ensure continuous improvement in quality processes across production, packaging, and warehousing.
• Manage raw material stock control and procurement to align with production schedules.
• Complete record-keeping, including HMRC excise documentation and monthly reporting.
• Adhere to health & safety and HMRC guidelines.
• Conduct sensory analysis to support quality control of spirits.
• Collaborate across departments including Distilling, Packaging, Warehouse, Marketing, and Procurement.

Ideal Skills:

• Strong knowledge of health and safety practices.
• Competent in stock control and quality management systems (SALSA, BRC, ISO, 5S, etc.).
• Excellent attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and production software (e.g., Unleashed).
• Strong organisational and communication skills.

Qualifications and Experience:

• College diploma or degree in food science, quality management, or related field.
• Food Hygiene or HACCP qualifications preferred.
• 2-3 years of experience in NPD, quality management, or leadership roles.

What We Offer:

• 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time).
• Birthday day off with pay *
• Up to 5 paid sick days per year *
• Access to Employee Assistance Program.
• Ongoing training and development opportunities.
• Staff socials and family-friendly policies.
• Pension scheme and staff discounts.
• Free distillery tours for you and a guest, plus discounted Gin School sessions.

Working Hours:

• 37.5-hour week, Monday to Friday (9 am - 5 pm), with some flexibility required.

Remuneration:

• £27,000 - £30,000 depending on experience.
• 3-month probation period.

Additional Information:

• Experience in beverage creation or food processing is beneficial.
• Due to our location, personal transport is required.

• Maintain and improve quality systems, adhering to SALSA or similar accreditations.
• Lead the development of new products in line with our NPD program.
• Ensure continuous improvement in quality processes across production, packaging, and warehousing.
• Manage raw material stock control and procurement to align with production schedules.
• Complete record-keeping, including HMRC excise documentation and monthly reporting.
• Adhere to health & safety and HMRC guidelines.
• Conduct sensory analysis to support quality control of spirits.
• Collaborate across departments including Distilling, Packaging, Warehouse, Marketing, and Procurement