Site Technical Manager
ABOUT ICHIBAN UK
Ichiban UK is a leading sushi manufacturer supplying own-label and branded sushi to major UK retailers. With almost two decades of experience in high-care food production, Ichiban operates from its state-of-the-art facility in Stowmarket, Suffolk, delivering high-quality, ready-to-eat sushi products at scale
BRIEF
To uphold its commitment to food safety and quality, Ichiban UK needed an experienced Site Technical Manager with a proven track record in high-care food manufacturing. This business-critical role was essential for ensuring full compliance with BRC food safety standards, retailer manufacturing codes of practice, and industry regulations and best practices.
Given the complexity and fast-paced nature of sushi production, the position required a highly skilled technical leader capable of navigating the challenges of high-care, high-risk food environments while driving continuous improvement and operational excellence.
However, recruiting for this position in East Anglia posed a unique challenge. Many regional food manufacturers operate in low-risk environments, making it difficult to find local candidates with the necessary high-care, high-risk food production experience.
THE ALEXANDER STEELE APPROACH
At Alexander Steele, we pride ourselves on our specialist food manufacturing recruitment expertise. Our Business Director, Giuseppe Leo, has worked with Ichiban UK for over 14 years, providing us with insight into their culture, challenges, and hiring needs. To ensure the best possible hire, we took a strategic and targeted approach. We began with an on-site consultation, visiting Ichiban UK to gain a deeper understanding of their business growth and recruitment needs post-COVID. Next, we conducted market mapping, identifying top talent with high-care, high-risk food manufacturing experience.
Rather than relying on traditional recruitment methods, we engaged in proactive outreach, personally connecting with qualified candidates who not only had the right expertise but also saw this opportunity as a key step in their career progression. Additionally, we focused on employer branding, effectively communicating Ichiban UK’s culture, work environment, and future growth potential to ensure we attracted the best possible talent.
OUTCOME
Our recruitment strategy resulted in a high-calibre shortlist, leading to a successful hire. The new Site Technical Manager joined Ichiban UK in August 2024, bringing fresh leadership and technical expertise, a renewed focus on quality and compliance, and innovative approaches to food safety and process efficiency.
Since their appointment, they have been instrumental in driving Ichiban UK’s ambitious growth plans and preparing for exciting new product launches in 2025.