Quality Manager

Description

The Quality Manager is responsible for all aspects of daily quality control efforts and food safety in the plant as well as the overall performance of the Quality Team. A successful candidate will be able to inspire the Quality Supervisors to drive the performance of their shifts; effectively use root cause analysis to identify and correct food safety and quality concerns, and drive continuous improvement efforts; effectively identify metrics, collect data and use them to direct the efforts of the Quality Team and hold them accountable; and ensure that all required documentation is complete and accurate to ensure timely release of finished product. The Quality Manager is accountable for the budget and staffing of the lab and Quality Team. The Quality Manager reports to the Director of Quality.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

· Lead team of 4 Quality Supervisors and 2 Micro Technicians.

· Define performance metrics and targets for the Quality Team in conjunction with VP and Dir. of Quality and ensure targets are met.

· Support Quality Supervisors in hiring staff and oversee training of quality personnel.

· Conduct timely and constructive performance evaluations.

Duties/Responsibilities:

· Enable and oversee compliance to microbiological, analytical, and sensory specifications of products and in-process materials according to Prime Beverage Group, customer and third-party requirements. 

· Responsible for Holds and non-conforming product PRP.

· Responsible for Microbiological control PRP.

· Enforce Current Good Manufacturing Practices in the plant.

· Drive development and improvement of laboratory techniques, procedures, and analytical capabilities.

· Establish tracking and reporting of key quality metrics and adherence to performance goals. 

· Manage Quality operating budget.

· Participate in the preparation, editing, and maintenance of all policy, procedure, and training materials.

·  Oversee proficiency testing of quality personnel.

· Work closely with the Chemical and Sanitation Manager to maintain a high standard of sanitation for the plant and equipment.

· Ensure that quality personnel comply with all applicable policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.

· Oversee document review to ensure products are meeting internal, customer, certifying body and regulatory requirements and ensuring safety of all food produced in the facility.

· Release finished product in a timely manner. 

· Engage the QMS Specialists to ensure on-time delivery of complete and accurate records to internal stakeholders and customers. 

· Work with the VP and Director of Quality on improving the Quality Management System, Food Safety Plan and Prerequisite Programs.

· Participate in internal audit programs.

· Maintain department in audit-ready state for SQF and other third party audits.

· Ensure completion of corrective actions and drive continuous improvement. 

Requirements

Required Skills/Abilities:

· Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to train staff.

· Thorough understanding of quality assurance/quality control standards.

· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

· Strong supervisory and leadership skills.

· Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Education and Experience:

· Bachelor’s degree in related industrial, scientific, or business field required.

· Three or more years’ supervisory or management experience preferred.

· PQCI and HAACP certification