Manufacturing & Compliance Director
4 days ago
Edinburgh
About VPZ VPZ is the UK’s number one vape retailer. Since opening our first store in Edinburgh, we’ve grown to over 190 locations across the UK and we’re just getting started. We’re known for setting and driving the standards within the vape industry, combining world class product development with responsible retailing and compliance leadership. As we enter our next phase of growth, we’re seeking an exceptional Manufacturing & Compliance Director to help scale our production capabilities, strengthen our regulatory framework, and drive operational excellence across our global supply chain. The Role This is a senior strategic leadership position responsible for owning VPZ’s manufacturing, regulatory, and duty compliance strategy ensuring that our products are produced efficiently, responsibly, and to the highest standards. You’ll lead our manufacturing operations to deliver improved capacity, quality, and scalability, while ensuring the business remains fully compliant with evolving HMRC and international regulatory frameworks. This is a pivotal role that sits at the intersection of growth and governance combining operational leadership with deep regulatory expertise to support VPZ’s continued UK and global expansion. Key Responsibilities Manufacturing Leadership & Efficiency • Oversee VPZ’s end-to-end manufacturing operations, driving continuous improvement across production efficiency, cost control, and output quality., • Develop and execute a manufacturing expansion strategy to support domestic and international growth., • Implement lean manufacturing principles and performance KPIs across production and supply chain teams., • Lead supplier management, raw material sourcing, and process optimisation to ensure reliable, scalable output., • Champion innovation in product formulation, automation, and process technology. Regulatory Strategy & Governance • Own and lead VPZ’s regulatory and duty compliance strategy across manufacturing, import/export, and product development., • Act as the primary liaison with HMRC, MHRA, and other regulatory authorities on excise, duty, and restricted goods compliance., • Interpret, communicate, and influence new legislation affecting vaping and nicotine containing products., • Ensure VPZ remains ahead of evolving regulatory frameworks in the UK and global markets. Duty & Restricted Industry Compliance • Ensure robust duty reporting systems, documentation, and audit trails for all duty paid and duty suspended products., • Lead the company’s compliance with excise, packaging, and import/export legislation., • Partner with finance and logistics teams to embed transparent, scalable compliance processes. Global Regulatory Oversight • Maintain compliance with TPD, CLP, REACH, and MHRA product registration frameworks., • Oversee regulatory notifications, SDS documentation, and labelling standards for all product lines., • Align manufacturing and product development practices with international regulatory requirements. Stakeholder Engagement & Risk Management • Advise the CEO, Board, and senior leadership on compliance risk, manufacturing scalability, and operational performance., • Represent VPZ in external forums and industry consultations on vaping and restricted goods legislation., • Provide compliance and manufacturing input for new product development, procurement, and market expansion initiatives. Qualifications & Experience • Proven experience leading manufacturing and compliance functions, ideally at Director or Head of level., • Strong operational background with a track record in manufacturing optimisation, process improvement, or multi site scaling., • Deep understanding of duty regulations, HMRC frameworks, and restricted goods legislation., • Working knowledge of MHRA, TPD, CLP, and REACH compliance standards., • Experience in regulated industries such as vaping, tobacco, alcohol, or pharmaceuticals., • Strategic and commercial mindset with the ability to translate regulation into competitive advantage., • Outstanding communication and leadership skills, capable of managing cross-functional teams and influencing at board level. Why Join VPZ? At VPZ, you’ll be part of a dynamic and visionary team reshaping the future of vaping in the UK and beyond. This is a unique opportunity to lead both the operational and regulatory evolution of the country’s largest vape brand, building scalable, world class manufacturing systems that support innovation, compliance, and long-term growth.
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