Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Quality Assurance Manager to lead our Quality Assurance (QA) function at a long established Food Manufacturing facility in Poole, Dorset.

The successful candidate will ensure that our operations consistently meet the highest standards of quality and compliance. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining our readiness for audits, enhancing production processes, and upholding food hygiene standards.

Responsibilities

• Ensure adherence to food hygiene standards and manage yearly audit planning and reporting.
• Investigate non-conformances and recommend corrective actions to relevant managers.
• Conduct daily spot checks on stock rotation, particularly for short-coded items.
• Complete monthly auditing schedules, including brittles, document checks, and full GMP audits.
• Perform weekly internal audits and scheduled checks, promptly reporting concerns to management.
• Conduct traceability and mass balance checks in line with the Quality Management System (QMS).
• Manage supplier risk assessments, including audits, product specifications, and allergen certifications.
• Investigate customer and supplier complaints, coordinating responses with the sales team.
• Oversee weekly laboratory testing as per the approved schedule.
• Lead customer audits and ensure timely resolution of non-conformances.
• Review and update the QMS and HACCP annually, leading team meetings to capture process changes.
• Conduct new employee inductions and ensure proper training for food handlers.
• Oversee the New Product Development (NPD) process from inception to completion.
• Regularly review QA processes to ensure compliance with customer Codes of Practice (COPs).
• Perform monthly checks on transport department paperwork and scale system labels.
• Provide coaching and training to team members as required.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Quality Assurance or similar role within the food industry.
• Strong knowledge of food hygiene standards, HACCP, and QMS.
• Experience with supplier risk assessments and customer audits.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.
• Proficiency in using nutritional platforms and managing documentation.

Day-to-Day

• Conduct daily stock rotation checks and address any issues.
• Perform scheduled audits and traceability checks.
• Investigate and resolve customer and supplier complaints.
• Collaborate with production and purchasing teams to ensure compliance and quality.
• Lead and participate in team meetings to review and improve processes.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure documentation is up-to-date.
• Provide training and support to team members as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• The chance to lead a critical function within the organisation.
• Contribution to maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety in the food industry.

If you are a dedicated professional with a passion for quality assurance and a commitment to excellence, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join us in ensuring that our products and processes meet the highest standards of quality and compliance.