Vice President of Quality Control

Company Overview

Vitaquest International LLC is a leading partner in the development and commercialization of consumer products within the nutraceutical and functional foods sectors. With a legacy spanning over 40 years, the company supports emerging and established consumer brands by overseeing all stages from concept to retail with meticulous precision. Currently, Vitaquest manages over 4,000 customer formulations across more than 500 brands in upwards of 40 countries.

Position Summary

The Vice President of Quality Control oversees the Quality Assurance and Quality Control Departments, ensuring compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and Food Safety standards throughout the company. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, this leadership role bears comprehensive accountability for all quality-related operations and initiatives.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and direct all activities of the Quality Operations departments, managing related matters company-wide.
• Collaborate across departments to uphold cGMP compliance and Food Safety regulations.
• Review and approve Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), investigations, laboratory protocols, test methods, reports, and related quality documentation.
• Supervise Quality supervisors and managers, including performing performance evaluations as necessary.
• Conduct internal and external quality audits as part of compliance and improvement efforts.
• Maintain qualifications in HACCP and FDA 21 CFR Part 111 HARPC standards.
• Manage third-party GMP certification audits and verify implementation of corrective actions.
• Serve as the primary liaison and host for regulatory agency inspections and audits, offering guidance on related inquiries and observations.
• Facilitate communication between Manufacturing and Product Development teams to review product testing outcomes and resolve production challenges.
• Assess and recommend new laboratory testing equipment to support operational needs.

Required Knowledge and Skills

• In-depth experience in managing technical services and quality control personnel.
• Comprehensive understanding of current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and Food Safety regulations.
• Proficient knowledge of HACCP, FDA HARPC, FSSC 22000, and FDA FSMA preventive controls relevant to dietary supplements.
• Certified internal auditor capabilities.
• Strong leadership abilities, organizational proficiency, and professional conduct.
• Ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams and build productive relationships with external vendors, laboratories, regulatory agencies, and customers.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Responsible for direct supervision of Quality Assurance and Quality Control managers, supervisors, and support staff as needed.

Work Environment

Regular internal collaboration with Operations, Product Development, Technical Services, QA/QC management, Marketing, and Sales departments. Externally, frequent engagement with contract laboratories, vendors, consultants, professional societies, and occasional direct contact with customers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a physical science or a related field.
• 10 to 15 years of prior experience in Quality Management roles.
• Experience managing QC laboratory operations within a regulated environment.
• Specialized expertise in dietary supplements, food science, or pharmaceutical science.
• Certifications in HACCP, FDA HARPC, FSSC 22000, and qualifications under FDA FSMA.

Success Attributes

• Self-driven and motivated team player.
• A role model for subordinates demonstrating professionalism and strong leadership.
• Highly organized with excellent management skills.