Schedule and conduct onsite vendor food safety and quality assessments through collaboration with Internal Stakeholders for new potential vendors
Maintain current supplier approval schedule and conduct re-evaluation audits per the defined frequency
Thoroughly assess vendor risks as it relates to various product types (i.e., Meat, poultry, egg, dairy, baked goods, fruit/vegetables, food additives/ingredients, etc.) and applicable regulations (i.e. USDA and FDA) and Quality Standards (i.e. SQF, BRC, etc.)
Write reports and communicate findings in a timely manner to execute prompt closure to identified nonconformances
Follow up with suppliers on corrective action plans as needed to ensure the appropriate level of action is taken to eliminate nonconformance
Work with suppliers to improve their overall service level, including compliance to specifications and COA requirements
Identify, measure, implement and report on continuous improvement initiatives within the supply chain program (i.e. Supplier Performance metrics, etc.)
Further develop and evolve food safety and quality risk assessment criteria and supplier qualification programs, assist with HACCP and Food Safety Plans as needed
Assist in analyzing complaint data as it relates to raw materials to identify trends and opportunities with vendors to drive continuous improvement
Assure programs, policies and procedures are compliant and kept current
Input supplier data within the computerized quality management system to ensure current information is maintained
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Meat Science or similar science degree
5+ years’ experience in a quality assurance role in a food manufacturing facility
Strong technical expertise in auditing skills
Prior experience auditing food companies
Knowledge of food safety mitigation processing techniques to reduce microbial, chemical, and foreign material hazards
Familiarity with various industries such as Dairy, Meat and Poultry, Egg, Seafood, Food Additives
Excellent knowledge of HACCP & HARPC and experience in implementation of Food Safety Management Plans
Certification by a recognized HACCP training provider (Meat, Poultry)
Working knowledge of regulations and guidelines such as FDA and USDA titles 21 and 9 for GMPs and quality programs
Ability to work autonomously to conduct audits as needed
Ability to communicate persuasively and passionately about the need for food safety & quality
Proficient use of Microsoft Office programs
Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
Strong initiative and ability to work as part of a team; communicate effectively
Excellent organization, time management and decision-making skills