Quality Assurance Manager

About the Role

We are seeking a highly experienced Quality Assurance Manager to join a reputable food manufacturing organization based in Cork. This pivotal leadership position entails overseeing food safety, quality control, and technical standards across the facility. The successful candidate will supervise a dedicated Quality Assurance team while collaborating with Production, Commercial, and Product Development departments to ensure compliance with customer, legal, and company specifications. Promoting continuous improvement and fostering a positive quality culture within the business are essential aspects of this role.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Quality Assurance team to achieve excellence.
• Promote and uphold a strong food safety and quality culture throughout the organization.
• Maintain and enhance the site’s Quality Management System on an ongoing basis.
• Ensure adherence to Irish and European Union food legislation, customer demands, and recognized industry standards.
• Oversee the management and upkeep of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) systems.
• Coordinate and execute the internal audit programs, ensuring timely completion of corrective and preventive actions.
• Lead audits conducted by customers, certification bodies, and regulatory agencies.
• Collaborate with Production, Commercial, and Product Development teams to align product standards with food safety and quality criteria.
• Manage supplier qualifications and evaluate supplier quality performance rigorously.
• Conduct investigations into customer complaints, product non-conformities, and quality incidents; perform root cause analyses and implement necessary corrective measures.
• Remain updated on trends in the food industry and emerging food safety threats.
• Analyze quality performance data, identify avenues for improvement, and spearhead continuous improvement projects.
• Offer technical advice and support to various departments across the company.

Candidate Profile

• Degree qualification in Food Science, Microbiology, Quality Management, or an equivalent field, or commensurate industrial experience.
• Extensive senior-level experience in Quality or Technical roles within food manufacturing.
• Proven track record of leading and nurturing Quality Assurance or Technical teams.
• Comprehensive understanding of HACCP, food safety management systems, and food-related legislation.
• Background in FMCG food manufacturing environments.
• Experience managing audits by customers, third parties, and regulators.
• Familiarity with food safety standards such as IFS Food, BRCGS, or equivalents.
• Excellent leadership capabilities combined with strong communication and organizational skills.
• Competent problem solver with demonstrated expertise in executing corrective and preventive actions.
• Adept at influencing stakeholders and fostering relationships across organizational levels.

Benefits Offered

• Competitive remuneration package.
• Participation in employee wellbeing initiatives.
• Access to the Bike to Work scheme.
• Eligibility for employee discount programs.
• Free parking available on-site.
• Opportunities for career advancement within the company.

Additional Details

• Applicants must be legally entitled to work in the Republic of Ireland.
• Candidates should have the capacity to commute to the Cork site or be willing to relocate before commencing employment.