Raw Materials Specialist OFI

Job Summary

The Raw Material Specialist is responsible for the conduct of due diligence in the qualification of new and alternative raw materials; ensuring all raw materials used by the company have documented and updated specifications compliant with safety regulatory and internal requirements, and are received, handled, stored and used according to established specifications and requirements.

• With the guidance of PD Admin and Regulatory Services Head, and in coordination with Purchasing, facilitates the qualification of new and alternative raw materials:

• Acts as the focal point for samples for evaluation that are received by PD from Purchasing, suppliers or related parties.

• Evaluates sample document for safety and regulatory compliance and alignment with PD requirements before samples are forwarded to concerned PD specialist.
• Monitors sample application/testing by PD Specialist and communicates with Purchasing and supplier the evaluation results and disposition.
• Records sample evaluation and retains excess sample for reference.
• Monitors sample retentions and facilitates disposal as necessary.
• Maintains and updates RM database containing information of all currently used raw materials, and a database containing detailed information of samples (new or alternative RM/ingredient) that went through the qualification process, their test results, and recommendation or disposition.
• Coordinates with Purchasing and/or Suppliers to ensure the Raw Material Information Sheet are accomplished and that information contained in them are updated.
• Validates and/or aligns test methods and parameter ranges supplied in COA and RMIS/technical information sheet provided by the ingredients supplier with internal requirements and parameters set by PD Specialist as well as the receiving parameters and/or actual results obtained by IMI.
• When there are misalignments in analytical methods used internally and by the supplier, assists in establishing internal limits using internal testing methods through correlations and validations jointly with IMI and QC and the guidance of Superior.
• Periodically conducts audits of receiving, handling and storage processes of raw materials commercially used for compliance to set standards and achieve their optimum shelf life.
• Prepares reports and recommendation/s on validation findings.
• Participates in the suppliers audits regularly conducted by QA and Purchasing to ensure sustainability of supply of critical raw materials.
• Actively participates in the team established to review and update the raw materials HACCP/VACCP/TACCP plans and in their implementation.

B.1. Reports:

• Sends weekly and monthly reports to superiors that contain updates on:

• Weekly activities and accomplishments

• Critical issues encountered, resolved and pending actions.
• HACCP/VACCP/TACCP issues and concerns
• Monthly summary report of activities

Accountability:

• Raw materials specifications compliance to internal and regulatory requirements
• Raw materials database maintenance
• Internal compliance to raw materials qualification process
• Alignment of testing and storage/handling methods with suppliers
• Communication/Feedback to Purchasing and/or suppliers on RM evaluation
• Weekly and monthly reports preparation

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Chemistry, Food Science, or Quality Assurance
• At least 3-5 years of experience in a similar raw material quality control role within the food or manufacturing industry
• Proficiency in conducting a wide range of analytical tests and using quality control equipment
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills to identify and resolve raw material quality issues
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with suppliers and internal teams
• Familiarity with relevant industry regulations and quality standards
• Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining accurate records and documentation