Quality Systems Manager

The Role

The Quality Systems Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining the company's quality management systems (QMS). This role involves ensuring that all processes and products meet the highest quality standards and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will have extensive food industry experience in quality management, strong analytical skills, and the ability to lead continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities:

Quality Management System (QMS) Development and Maintenance:

• Develop, implement, and maintain the QMS to ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g. BRC, BEIC Lion Code, RSPCA Assured Farm Scheme)
• Regularly review and update quality policies, procedures, and documentation to reflect changes in standards and regulations.
• Ensure that all quality documentation is accurately maintained and easily accessible.

Compliance and Certification:

• Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Prepare for and manage external audits and inspections by regulatory bodies and certification organisations.
• Maintain certifications and ensure all necessary documentation is current and compliant.

Quality Audits and Inspections:

• Plan, conduct, and oversee internal audit programme to evaluate the effectiveness of the QMS.
• Identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions to address non-conformities.
• Monitor and report on the status of corrective and preventive actions.

Customer Quality Assurance:

• Address customer complaints and quality issues, ensuring timely resolution and effective corrective actions.
• Provide periodic trend analysis of customer complaints and work with the Operations teams to drive a complaints reduction plan

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain detailed records of quality activities, including audits, inspections, corrective actions, and training.
• Prepare and present Key performance indicator (KPI) reports to senior management, highlighting key metrics and improvement initiatives.
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting of quality performance data.

Skills Required:

• GCSE/A-Level or equivalent
• Food-industry diploma
• Intermediate HACCP
• Intermediate Food Hygiene Skills and Competencies:
• Strong knowledge of quality assurance principles, methodologies, and best practices.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in quality management software and tools.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy.
• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Relevant Experience:

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in technical systems administration and management
• Experience with quality management systems (e.g BRC, Marks & Spencer, Tesco TFMS) and regulatory compliance.