Director of Food Safety & Quality Job Title: Director of Food Safety & Quality
Position Summary
The Director of Food Safety & Quality is responsible for leading and executing the company's food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance programs. This role ensures adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) requirements, and Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) standards, including BRC audits. The Director will drive continuous improvement initiatives, oversee Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) functions, and ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory and customer requirements within the food industry.
Key Responsibilities
Food Safety & Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure compliance with FSMA regulations, including Preventive Controls for Human Food.
- Oversee development, implementation, and maintenance of food safety programs such as HACCP, HARPC, allergen control, and sanitation.
- Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and local regulatory requirements (FDA, USDA, and other applicable agencies).
- Serve as primary liaison with regulatory bodies and third-party auditors.
- Lead incident management, including product recalls, traceability exercises, and root cause investigations.
GMP & Operational Excellence
- Establish, implement, and continuously improve GMP programs across all production facilities.
- Conduct internal audits to ensure compliance with GMP, sanitation, and operational standards.
- Partner with Operations to ensure food safety and quality are integrated into daily processes.
- Promote a strong food safety culture throughout the organization.
Quality Assurance & Quality Control
- Lead QA and QC teams, ensuring robust systems for product quality and safety.
- Develop and maintain specifications, testing protocols, and quality standards.
- Analyze trends in quality data and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
- Oversee supplier quality programs, including approval, monitoring, and audits.
- Ensure effective laboratory testing programs and compliance with microbiological and chemical standards.
BRC & Third-Party Audit Management
- Lead preparation, execution, and follow-up for BRC (British Retail Consortium) audits.
- Ensure ongoing compliance with BRC standards and other GFSI-recognized schemes.
- Manage customer audits and certification requirements.
- Develop corrective action plans for audit findings and ensure timely closure.
Continuous Improvement & Risk Management
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives in food safety and quality systems.
- Implement risk-based approaches to identify and mitigate food safety risks.
- Utilize data analytics to improve product quality, reduce defects, and enhance operational efficiency.
Leadership & Team Development
- Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing food safety and quality team.
- Provide training and development programs for employees on food safety, GMPs, and compliance requirements.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, R&D, Supply Chain, and Regulatory Affairs.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field (Master's preferred).
- 8–12+ years of experience in food safety and quality roles within the food manufacturing industry.
- 5+ years in a leadership or management role.
Technical Expertise
- Strong knowledge of:
- GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices)
- FSMA and preventive controls
- HACCP/HARPC principles
- BRC and GFSI standards
- Food safety auditing and compliance
- Experience with regulatory agencies (FDA, USDA).
- Certified HACCP, PCQI (Preventive Controls Qualified Individual), or equivalent certifications preferred.
Skills & Competencies
- Proven leadership and team management skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive results in a fast-paced environment.
- High attention to detail with a strong commitment to food safety and quality excellence.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Audit performance (BRC scores, regulatory inspections)
- Reduction in non-conformances and customer complaints
- Compliance with GMP, FSMA, and regulatory standards
- Effectiveness of CAPA and root cause analysis
- Product quality metrics and defect rates
Work Environment
- Manufacturing/production facility environment.
- May require travel to multiple sites, suppliers, or audit locations.
Compensation details: 130000-145000 Yearly Salary
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