Job Description
Quality Assurance Lead - County Cavan
Ref No: DT18580
County Cavan, Republic of Ireland
Competitive salary
Quality Assurance Lead - County Cavan
This is a key leadership role, forming part of the site management team and working closely with operations to deliver production requirements with a focus on food safety, quality, and compliance.
The site specialises in the production of cooked food products, much of which are canned, and operates two high-risk processes that require robust control systems and technical oversight.
The successful candidate will bring strong experience in high-risk food manufacturing, a relevant science-based qualification, and the ability to balance quality leadership with a commercial understanding of production operations.
Key Responsibilities
1. Food Safety & Quality Management
2. Oversee and continuously improve the site's Food Safety and Quality Management System.
3. Manage high-risk food production and canning operations, ensuring compliance with all relevant standards and legislation.
4. Lead the implementation and maintenance of HACCP and hygiene systems (HACCP Team Leader).
5. Maintain compliance with DAFF regulations and liaise with relevant officials and auditors.
6. Ensure adherence to customer specifications and manage non-conforming product processes.
7. Oversee laboratory testing, sanitation, and cleaning activities.
8. Conduct internal audits and support customer and third-party audits (BRC, Bord Bia PQAS).
9. Act as management representative for Bord Bia PQAS accreditation.
Quality Improvement & Process Control
10. Drive corrective and preventative action programs to resolve quality issues.
11. Implement user-friendly control procedures to embed accountability across teams.
12. Lead continuous improvement activities and participate in Lean/CI initiatives.
13. Develop and support product and process improvements in collaboration with R&D and production.
14. Analyse and report on quality performance metrics to site and group management.
Operations & Staff Management
15. Work collaboratively with the Site Manager and Group Technical Manager to align quality goals with operational needs.
16. Support production teams in achieving yield, quality, and specification targets.
17. Coordinate and supervise the technical team and ensure adequate staffing and training.
18. Manage timekeeping, attendance, and disciplinary issues in line with company policy.
19. Support induction, training, and ongoing development of site personnel.
20. Ensure a proactive approach to health and safety across all site activities.
21. Liaise with maintenance and contractors to maintain quality standards and operational efficiency.
External Liaison & Compliance
22. Maintain effective relationships with customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
23. Lead customer complaint investigations and implement effective corrective measures.
24. Represent the site during inspections and audits from external agencies such as DAFF and the EPA.
Requirements
25. Third-level qualification in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, or a related discipline.
26. Proven experience in a similar technical or quality management role within a high-risk food manufacturing environment.
27. Strong understanding of HACCP, BRC, and Bord Bia PQAS standards.
28. Excellent knowledge of food safety legislation and regulatory requirements.
29. Demonstrated ability to manage teams and develop staff.
30. Strong problem-solving, organisational, and analytical skills.
31. Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
32. Experience engaging with auditors, customers, and government bodies.
33. Proficient in Microsoft Office and quality management systems.
Key Relationships
34. Site Operations Manager
35. Maintenance Team
36. Group Technical Manager
37. Sales Department
38. HR Business Partner
39. Lean / Continuous Improvement Team
40. Health & Safety Officer
41. Department of Agriculture and external regulatory bodies
42. Contractors and suppliers