JOB TITLE: QUALITY ASSURANCE MANAGER

Location: Yorkshire Premier Meat , Yorkshire , On site Role
Job Type: Full-Time with occasional Weekend cover
Reports to: Head of Technical
Position Overview: The QA Manager will oversee the quality assurance operations across all stages of production, ensuring that all products meet company standards as well as regulatory and customer requirements. This role requires a deep understanding of food safety protocols, red meat processing, quality control systems, and continuous improvement practices. The QA Manager will lead a QC Team, collaborate with cross-functional departments, and implement strategic quality systems to optimize product consistency, safety, and quality.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education: Degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Animal Science, or a related field. Certifications in HACCP, SQF, or similar quality management systems are preferred.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience in quality assurance, food safety, or quality control management within the red meat or food processing industry.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of meat processing operations, food safety regulations, quality control principles, and lean manufacturing practices. Familiarity with HACCP, GMP, and other relevant standards.
• Skills: Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities. Strong analytical skills and proficiency with quality control tools and software (e.g., Microsoft Office).
• Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail and precision in all aspects of quality management, including documentation and inspection.
• Physical Demands: Ability to work in a production environment with exposure to temperature variations and occasional physical labour as required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in Food Science, Meat Science, or related discipline.
• Knowledge of industry-specific certification programs (e.g., BRC).

• Quality Management: Develop, implement, and maintain quality assurance programs that ensure all products meet company and industry standards for quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Food Safety Compliance: Oversee and enforce adherence to all customer specifications , ensure compliance and mitigate food safety risks.
• Process Improvement: Lead continuous improvement initiatives aimed at reducing defects, improving yield, increasing efficiency, and enhancing product consistency. Use data-driven insights to drive decision-making.
• Team Leadership: Manage and mentor the QC team, fostering a culture of quality throughout the company. Provide training, development opportunities, and performance evaluations for team members.
• Audit & Inspection: Coordinate and lead internal and external audits to ensure compliance with all applicable food safety and quality standards. Prepare for and participate in 3rd Party and customer audits as needed.
• Documentation & Reporting: Ensure accurate documentation of all quality control processes, testing results, non-conformities, corrective actions, and customer complaints. Prepare reports for senior management .
• Customer & Regulatory Liaison: Address and resolve any quality issues or complaints in a timely manner.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks to product quality and food safety, and implement corrective actions and preventative measures to minimize those risks.