Quality Assurance Specialist- Fresh Produce

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

MAIN PURPOSE OF ROLE

We are seeking a kind, proactive and detail-oriented Quality Assurance Specialist to oversee and drive quality assurance standards across our fresh produce operations. Our supply portfolio is predominantly centred on fresh blueberries, while we are actively expanding into a broader range of fruit categories, including kiwi, grapes, stone fruit, apples, and mangoes.

Based in Seville, Spain, this role requires regular travel and extended stays (weeks at a time) in the Netherlands during peak season (September to November), as well as travel within the UK and EU.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring product quality from origin through packing and storage, enabling effective decision-making on product allocation while maintaining close alignment with internal stakeholders and external partners.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

· Conduct in-depth quality assessments of raw materials at packing and storage sites across the Netherlands and UK, providing clear and actionable insights to the FFT team.

· Make informed decisions on stock allocation and product suitability, ensuring alignment with customer specifications and commercial priorities.

· Perform quality testing, inspections, and analysis, contributing to continuous improvement of quality standards.

· Conduct and/or coordinate residue testing in accordance with the agreed company schedule and regulatory requirements.

· Manage and control labelling information, ensuring full compliance with customer, legal, and internal standards.

· Support delivery and monitoring of Quality KPIs, identifying trends, risks, and improvement opportunities.

· Conduct root cause analysis of quality issues and drive the implementation and follow-up of Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA).

· Actively participate in the HACCP team, contributing to food safety risk assessments and continuous improvement of processes.

· Work closely with packing houses, warehouses, and storage partners to ensure optimal handling, storage conditions, and product integrity.

· Act as a key communication hub, ensuring effective and timely sharing of quality-related information across teams and stakeholders.

· Collaborate with external quality inspection partners, maintaining oversight and accountability for all quality decisions.

· Participate in projects, trials, and product testing initiatives to support innovation, NPDs and process improvement.

· Serve as a primary point of contact between FFT and quality inspection partners, fostering strong working relationships.

· Provide cover and operational support for the Technical Manager when required by ensuring compliance with customer technical & quality requirements.

· Schedule : 5 in and 2 off with alternative weekends during the peak of the season (Oct to Feb)

· Based in Seville, Spain with flexibility to travel during peak periods to the Netherlands and the UK & EU

Requirements

· Minimum 3 years’ experience in a quality assurance or quality control role within fresh produce.

· Strong technical knowledge of fruit, including quality standards, specifications, and handling requirements.

· Demonstrated ability to analyse data and make sound, independent decisions under pressure.

· Passion for the fresh produce industry with a hands-on and results-driven mindset.

· Proven track record of execution and accountability (“getting things done”).

· Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence across functions and partners.

· Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.

· Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a team.

· High level of flexibility and adaptability, particularly during peak seasonal demands.

· Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data, identify issues, and implement solutions.

· Fluent in English; Spanish is highly desirable.

· Willingness to travel extensively, including extended stays in the Netherlands during peak season.

· Valid driving licence required.