QA Manager - Food Industry

Job Description

BruntWork | Full time: 35 paid hours per week or more Job Category: Operations and Project Management Work Timezone: AEST (e.g., London, Melbourne) Work Schedule: Fixed Schedule Job Type: Full time: 35 paid hours per week or more Date Opened: 01/21/2025 Remote Job Industry: Other Job Description This is a remote position. Role Name: QA Manager - Food and Beverage Ingredients Schedule: Full-time, AEST Monday to Thursday 8am to 4pm (6:00 AM to 2:00 PM PHT), Friday 8am to 3pm (6:00 AM to 1:00 PM PHT) Client Overview: Join a leading wholesale B2B food ingredients supplier based in Melbourne, Victoria. This dynamic company specializes in importing and distributing high-quality food ingredients to businesses across Australia, maintaining rigorous quality standards and holding key certifications like organic and kosher. Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced Quality Assurance Manager to lead our quality assurance efforts across the company’s product lines. This role is pivotal in ensuring compliance with quality standards, certifications, and regulatory requirements while delivering top-quality products. You will collaborate closely with teams across procurement, production, and sales to maintain product excellence. Key Responsibilities: New Product Development (NPD): • A critical member of the new product development team from concept to execution for both retail and B2B markets.• Research and implement innovative product formulations using knowledge of food chemistry, mainly pertaining to raw ingredients and risks (e.g., tea blends, herbs, and spices).• Collaborate with the Sourcing Manager and Sales Team to verify products that meet customer briefs and business goals, including but not limited to, meeting the specification required, satisfying import regulations and meeting the standards required (Aus Organic/USDA, NOP, EU, kosher etc).• Create and manage WIP (Work in Progress) development timelines, ensuring all departments meet critical business deadlines. Quality Assurance (QA): • Responsible for QA assessments on all products, ensuring compliance with CCP (Critical Control Points) and food safety standards (HACCP, GMP).• Develop and maintain QA documentation for all products, including international labelling compliance, PIFs (Product Information Forms), FSANZ approvals, allergen testing, and certifications (e.g., Halal, Kosher, FDA).• Work with production teams (both in-house and external partners) to ensure consistency and quality across all product batches.• Implement and review quality control procedures, conducting internal and external audits to maintain product quality, minimise risk, and evaluate the integrity of the plan.• Manage certification audits and processes related to HACCP, ACO, Kosher, Halal, and other relevant standards. Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: • Act as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, maintaining open and efficient lines of communication.• Collaborate with the sales team to create product lines and meet market demands while ensuring all quality aspects are addressed.• Support procurement by vetting suppliers and ensuring they meet the company’s quality and ethical standards and certifications.• Participate in audits, assist and develop corrective actions for product and process improvements.• Ensure that international and local QA standards are met across all suppliers and production facilities.• Regularly report on product development progress, QA issues, and improvement plans to senior management.• Track and analyze production and QA data to improve product consistency, resolve quality issues, and maintain high standards with consistency.• Manage and close CARs (Corrective Action Requests) within agreed timelines to prevent recurring issues. Take preventative action to minimise CARS.• Oversee product testing, including microbiological and sensory tests, ensuring results align with product specifications. Key Requirements: • 7 - 10 years' experience in a QA role or product development role within the food industry.• Strong knowledge of food chemistry, raw ingredient processing, and international food safety standards.• Experience managing quality assurance programs, audits, and ensuring compliance with international standards.• Ability to manage multiple projects and work effectively with cross-functional teams.• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.• Experience importing/exporting food products into Australia, the US, or the EU is preferred. Preferred Qualifications: • Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related Quality Assurance field.• Experience with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and process enhancement strategies. #J-18808-Ljbffr