Location: Sommerville, VIC, 3912
Full-Time: Immediate start
Job Title: Quality Assurance Manager
Salary range: $89,600 - $112,000
Job Closure date: 30 days
About our client:
Our client is a prominent and rapidly expanding leader in the FMCG sector, specialising in high-quality, sustainable agricultural production and supply. With state-of-the-art facilities on the Mornington Peninsula, they are dedicated to delivering premium products from paddock to plate. Their integrated operations encompass advanced horticulture, food manufacturing, and sophisticated supply chain logistics, all underpinned by a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence. They are seeking a dynamic and experienced Quality Assurance Manager to uphold and enhance their rigorous quality standards.
About the Role:
On behalf of our client, we are seeking an energetic, passionate, and highly experienced Quality Assurance Manager to lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of quality systems across their end-to-end operations. This is a pivotal role where you will ensure that all processes, from raw material sourcing to final product dispatch, meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance. The ideal candidate will be a proactive leader with a strong background in FMCG quality systems, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to drive a culture of quality excellence.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
Quality Systems Leadership & Certification:
• Develop, implement, and oversee robust quality management systems, ensuring alignment with industry standards and certification requirements such as HACCP, GMP, and SQF.
• Plan, organise, and coordinate internal and external audits, acting as the primary point of contact for certification bodies and ensuring ongoing compliance with national and international standards.
• Lead the business in maintaining and improving quality certifications, ensuring all processes and documentation are always audit-ready.
Standards Development & Supplier Management:
• Determine, negotiate, and agree on in-house quality procedures, standards, and specifications in collaboration with key stakeholders, ensuring they meet both customer expectations and regulatory requirements.
• Specify and validate quality requirements for raw materials, working closely with suppliers to establish clear specifications and conducting regular supplier reviews to ensure consistency and compliance.
• Investigate and set benchmarks for quality, health, and safety standards, driving continuous improvement initiatives to elevate product quality and operational efficiency.
Operational Collaboration & Training:
• Work closely with operational teams to embed quality procedures into daily workflows, providing guidance and support to ensure adherence to standards and fostering a culture of quality ownership.
• Assess customer requirements and translate them into actionable quality and service standards, ensuring these are consistently met across all stages of production and supply.
• Identify training needs related to quality systems and procedures, developing and delivering targeted training programs to build capability and awareness across the organisation.
Performance Analysis & Continuous Improvement:
• Record, analyse, and distribute statistical information related to quality performance, using data-driven insights to identify trends, areas for improvement, and opportunities for innovation.
• Act as a catalyst for change and improvement, leading projects to enhance product quality, reduce waste, and optimise processes in line with business objectives.
• Monitor and evaluate customer feedback and complaints, implementing corrective and preventive actions to address issues and prevent recurrence.
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
• A degree in Food Science, Quality Assurance, Agricultural Science, or a related field is essential.
• Proven post-qualification experience in a Quality Assurance management role, preferably within the FMCG, food manufacturing, or fresh produce sectors.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and maintaining quality systems, managing audits, and ensuring compliance with industry certifications.
Essential Skills & Attributes:
• Strong analytical skills with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to make informed, decisive decisions under pressure.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the business, from production staff to senior management.
• A proactive, hands-on approach with the ability to work autonomously, lead initiatives, and drive results while fostering a collaborative team environment.
• A commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, with the resilience and adaptability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic setting.
To Apply:
If you are a dedicated quality assurance professional ready to take on a key leadership role within a leading FMCG business, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience through the application portal.