Frequently Asked Questions

The Highfield Manager in Charge Programme is a certified food safety programme that provides food businesses with the tools and knowledge to take control of food safety in their organisation.

It combines internationally recognised qualifications with an ongoing practical requirement based around audits and inspection, and continuous professional development, ensuring that the registered MIC stays up to date.

It also places an expectation on the food business to ensure the ongoing training of managers, supervisors and food handlers.

For the programme to be effective a business must nominate at least two members of staff to be their managers in charge. These people should be based in a kitchen or food preparation environment. HMIC is a commitment to food safety that goes beyond a certificate on the wall.

The MIC in the business will:

• be responsible for the daily food safety of your business including the on-the-job training of food handlers to ensure their competence
• be responsible for dealing with all customers’ food complaints
• be trained in HACCP and internal auditing
• be responsible for carrying out monthly internal audits and liaising with enforcement officers, third-party auditors, pest control, cleaning and training companies
• need to undertake food safety CPD relevant to your organisation and keep a portfolio of evidence to prove they are keeping themselves up to date with food safety information relevant to your sector

The business will commit to training at least 50% of managers and supervisors to achieve a level 3 qualification and at least 50% of food handlers to a level 2 qualification from a recognised awarding organisation.

The Highfield Manager in Charge Programme is aimed at any business in a catering or retail environment. Businesses taking part in the programme will be awarded a Highfield Certificate of Excellence in Managing Food Safety (for the Business).

Businesses that register for the HMIC Programme show a commitment to achieving the very highest standards of food safety. It is a commitment that will assist in protecting profits and minimising the risk of food poisoning.

The benefits to the company are improved food safety, quick implementation and the appreciation of customers.

Learners who wish to qualify as a manager in charge may benefit from increased career prospects, and an enhancement of their skillset. By the end of the programme they will have the knowledge and skills required to identify food safety issues, cover the principles of HACCP and carry out a basic inspection of all food storage, preparation, cooking and serving areas.

HMIC training is delivered only by approved Highfield centres. If you are an existing Highfield centre, contact your centre manager and let them know you would like to register to deliver HMIC.

If you are not currently a Highfield centre but would like more information on the Highfield Manager in Charge Programme, please contact our office on 00971 449 4042 or email Richard Sprenger on rsprenger@highfield.co.uk.