Quality Assurance Manager

Quality Assurance Manager

Primary Function: Primarily responsible for directing the activities of the Quality Assurance department for a location engaged in the slaughter and disassembly of poultry to ensure food safety, regulatory compliance, quality standards and processes are consistent with regulatory compliance, customer expectations, and organizational policies ensuring alignment with business objectives of the organization.

Responsibilities and Tasks:

• Manage QA functions for assigned plants and oversee activities of plant QA Managers to ensure the effective application of product and process monitoring, testing, validation and controls in compliance with company, regulatory entities (U.S.D.A., etc.) and Federal and State guidelines, regulations and laws
• Act as U.S.D.A. liaison facilitating communication and fostering a positive working relationship between outside agencies and internal departments
• Partner with internal departments to ensure a complete and thorough investigation and root cause analysis of all customer complaints and NR's; communicate findings to appropriate personnel in a timely manner
• Lead quality system implementations and updates to ensure adherence to product specifications, GMP's, SSOP's and HACCP requirements, while maintaining accuracy of records and documentation per customer requirements
• Perform periodic audits on recall systems, incoming raw materials, in-process control and finished goods testing
• Participate in development and implementation of continuous improvement programs including but not limited to utilization of SPC
• Act as the primary source of contact with regards to food safety and quality with major customers, particularly those that are supplied from multiple Wayne Farms facilities
• Ensure required reporting is accurate and timely with trend analysis along with identification of corrective actions and preventative measures
• Partners with Operations to ensure identified corrective actions are implemented and preventative measures are set in place to prevent further issues
• Follow and promote all safety initiatives, helping to maintain a zero accident culture
• Mentor, coach and train/ cross-train employees encouraging career development; provide consistent feedback concerning strengths and areas in need of improvement
• Assist in the development of capital spending plans particularly as related to quality and food safety
• Perform additional relevant duties as assigned

Supervisor Responsibilities:

• Supervise a team of both exempt and/or non-exempt personnel
• This role is a Leader of Leaders role with required competencies: Strategic Agility, Business Acumen, Building Effective Teams, Customer Focus and Command Skills

Education and Certifications:

• Bachelors' degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Animal Science, Biology, Microbiology, Meat Science or other related discipline from an accredited institution; Masters' degree preferred

Experience and Skills:

• Minimum three (3) years' experience as a Quality Assurance Supervisor or minimum one (1) year experience as a Quality Assurance Manager experience in a food processing and manufacturing/production environment; experience in the poultry industry preferred
• Demonstrated leadership experience including knowledge of timekeeping requirements, policy adherence, Top 25 behaviors, conflict resolution and the ability to resolve issues efficiently and effectively
• Demonstrated technical knowledge in quality processes and systems (e.g. SPC, HACCP, SSOP, GMPs, etc.).
• Strong customer focus with the ability to communicate with internal and external customers in a timely and professional manner
• Must have exceptional communication, both verbal and written, attention to detail and the ability to resolve issues efficiently and effectively
• Self-starter who demonstrates strong initiative and sense of urgency, with the ability to work in a fast paced environment
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects while maintaining attention to detail
• Must possess a strong customer-centric attitude, high energy level and a strong sense of urgency

Safety Requirements:

• Follow and ensure others follow departmental and company safety policies and programs
• Wear required protective equipment in all areas where mandatory

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.