Technical Manager

JOB PURPOSE: Oversees the Production of My Client for the EP manufacturing site ensuring the technical integrity of all products both professional and retail. To lead and develop the technical and QC /Lab team; Identifying potential opportunities for new product development in GM, whilst maintaining the technical integrity, quality, safety, testing and analysis across the product range. MAIN DUTIES: * Provides technical support for Professional & Retail growing media products * Drives continuous improvement and assists with research and development of GM * Responsible for the technical integrity of Growing media product range, including testing and analysis of new and existing products, correct labelling, Material Safety Data Sheet preparation, regulations etc. * Responsible for providing technical support to quality and purchasing teams, setting technical specifications and assisting with compliance inspections and testing * Manages the QC function and Lab team and provides technical support for the development of Growing media * Building relationships with key suppliers, ensuring Westland have access to the latest technologies and competitive raw materials * Builds and maintains key relationships with all Professional Growers assisting with any technical and development queries * Assists the quality and Customer service dept. with technical advice and support * Provide assistance with Benchmarking against peat based or alternative substrates * Produces and formulates products for growing media trials with manufacturing team * Responsible for ongoing calibration and test capability and accuracy of metrology and resulting analysis and record keeping. * Responding to consumer and customer queries in a professional and timely manner, ensuring that the reputation of the company is maintained throughout all interactions * Responsible for overseeing Lab testing and measurement * General support to other members of the technical team as needed * Support Project related work on innovation and transition of new products or processes from NPD phase to production scalability. * To inform and communicate and liaise with the Sales team. * Provides support for the development and competency of the QC and Lab team Professional / Retail