Job Description

The Quality Assurance Manager designs, implements, and maintains comprehensive quality assurance frameworks for our Meat Plants. This critical role ensures all operations align with food safety standards to deliver high-quality, safe products to consumers. The position oversees end-to-end production quality, from raw material traceability through to finished products, maintaining customer satisfaction across our retail outlets.Key ResponsibilitiesQuality Systems Management

• Design, implement, and continuously improve the Quality Assurance System (QMS)
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards
• Conduct risk assessments using HACCP principles to maintain legal compliance and export certification
• Monitor production processes to verify adherence to standard operating procedures

Supplier and Materials Quality

• Collaborate with Purchasing to resolve raw material quality issues and develop supplier specifications
• Oversee quality control for both raw materials and finished products
• Establish quality standards and ensure production maintains these benchmarks
• Analyze and report on causes of quality deviations and non-conformances

Compliance and Reporting

• Lead internal and external audits, reporting findings to upper management
• Maintain effective communication with regulatory and governing bodies
• Evaluate compliance matters related to packaging, labeling, and product composition
• Stay informed on new or updated regulations applicable to meat processing

Training and Development

• Train staff on quality assurance, hygiene, and food safety procedures
• Assess training needs and collaborate with Learning & Development to deliver relevant programs
• Recommend and implement new technologies and best practices supporting strategic objectives

Laboratory and Technical Management

• Oversee internal and external laboratory processes ensuring product quality and consistency
• Source, maintain, and calibrate quality control equipment and instruments
• Manage product recalls and coordinate corrective actions for customer complaints
• Provide guidance on microbiological controls within the Meat Plants

Risk Management

• Establish and monitor Service Level Agreements with external providers
• Implement risk management controls throughout operations
• Ensure facility and product compliance with all relevant standards
• Safeguard product quality and safety across all operational areas

Qualifications & RequirementsEducation (Essential)

• Grade 12 / Matric
• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology or a related field

Experience (Essential)

• Minimum 4 years' experience in a Quality Assurance Management capacity within Meat Plants, Fresh Meat Produce, or similar industries
• Demonstrated experience in designing, developing, and delivering quality assurance frameworks, policies, procedures, and guidelines
• Solid understanding of end-to-end meat production operations from animal arrival, processing, packaging, and distribution
• Strong knowledge of statutory requirements, applying and monitoring relevant laws, regulations, and best practices in relation to customers and FMCG:

• Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP)
• ISO standards, specifically FSSC22000
• Proficiency in MS Office 365 with strong Excel skills and reporting capability

Skills & Competencies

• Strong quality focus xe2x80x93 Applies sound knowledge of quality assurance principles, methods, and tools to ensure processes fulfill business requirements and standards
• Technical awareness and data management skills xe2x80x93 Demonstrates sound grasp of database and reporting design concepts, managing data as a valuable organizational resource
• Analytical thinking xe2x80x93 Readily comprehends complex concepts and information, investigates courses of action to identify appropriate solutions
• Influential communication xe2x80x93 Confident with good personal influence to gain business area respect, influence decisions, and secure commitments
• Effective communication xe2x80x93 Speaks clearly and writes succinctly with correct spelling and grammar; presents arguments credibly in area of expertise
• Planning and organizing xe2x80x93 Plans and organizes work effectively while supporting others, delivers on promises, and ensures tasks are completed on time
• Pressure management xe2x80x93 Able to work under pressure, manage varying priorities, and navigate periods of high demand in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative partnering xe2x80x93 Builds meaningful relationships both internally and externally, gives and receives constructive feedback effectively
• Governance adherence xe2x80x93 Applies Governance Policies, Code of Conduct, and ethical behavior; addresses non-compliance appropriately

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

Manpower