Head of Technical, Innovation and Sustainability

A high quality print group, which is the leading player within its specialist field, has a key opening within its manufacturing department. Our client is looking for someone to take on the role of Head of Technical, Innovation and Sustainability, with the purpose of ensuring operational excellence, compliance with industry standards, and the development of sustainable practices that align with the company’s long-term goals.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Technical Leadership:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive technical and quality strategy aligned with business objectives.

• Oversee technical operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance with regulations.

• Develop and implement best practices for manufacturing, production, and work with supply chain on processes.

• Provide technical expertise and guidance to cross-functional teams.

• Drive continuous improvement in product quality and operational performance.

• Ensure all processes comply with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and customer specifications.

Quality Assurance:

• Establish and maintain quality management systems (QMS) across all sites.

• Monitor product quality performance, analyse trends, and implement corrective and preventive actions.

• Lead internal and external audits, ensuring compliance and certification with relevant standards (e.g., ISO, BRC, etc.).

Innovation Strategy:

• Lead research and development efforts to drive product and process innovation.

• Identify emerging technologies and trends to maintain competitive advantage.

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to drive innovation projects.

• Foster a culture of creativity and continuous improvement within the organisation.

Continuous Improvement:

• Collaborate with Site leads to identify opportunities for process optimisation and efficiency improvements to enhance quality and reduce costs.

Sustainability Leadership:

• Develop and execute sustainability strategies aligned with corporate objectives.

• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and industry best practices.

• Implement initiatives to reduce the company’s environmental footprint.

• Engage with key stakeholders to promote sustainability efforts internally and externally.

Leadership and Management:

• Lead, develop, and mentor teams across sites, building a high-performing department.

• Set clear objectives, measure performance, and provide constructive feedback.

• Ensure consistent standards and practices are applied across all sites.

Customer and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Serve as the primary technical and quality contact for key customers, addressing inquiries and issues promptly.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including certification bodies and suppliers.

• Collaborate with commercial teams to support customer-specific quality and technical requirements.

Risk Management and Compliance:

• Identify and mitigate risks related to quality and technical processes.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.

EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

• Proven experience in a Senior Leadership role, Innovation management, Technical and sustainability within the printing industry

• Proven track record in driving technical excellence, innovation, and sustainable business practices.

• Strong knowledge of industry regulations, environmental policies, and emerging technologies Certifications in quality management or process improvement (e.g., Six Sigma, CQI).

• Strong leadership and people management skills.

• In-depth knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, BRC, etc.).

• Technical expertise in the manufacturing process and product development.

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities across sites effectively.

• Familiar with ink technologies

• Attention to detail

• Working knowledge of relevant software tools and computer literacy

• Understanding of business management principles