Quality Assurance Manager

We are seeking an experienced Quality Assurance Coordinator, looking to step into a QA Manager role, to be a leader in Quality Assurance efforts across the company's product lines. This role is pivotal in verifying raw ingredients, while ensuring compliance with quality standards, certifications, and regulatory requirements. You will work closely with various teams, including sales, sourcing, procurement, and warehouse, to deliver top-quality products that align with business objectives, while managing quality assurance processes from development to distribution.

Key Responsibilities

New Product Development (NPD)

• A critical member of the new product development team from concept to execution for both retail and B2B markets.

• Research and implement innovative product formulations using knowledge of food chemistry, mainly pertaining to raw ingredients and risks (e.g., tea blends, herbs, and spices,).

• Collaborate with the Sourcing Manager and Sales Team to verify products that meet customer briefs and business goals, including but not limited to, meeting the specification required, satisfying import regulations and meeting the standards required (Aus Organic/USDA,NOP, EU, kosher etc), meeting the cost price required and controlling the risk.

• Create and manage WIP (Work in Progress) development timelines, ensuring all departments meet critical business deadlines.

Quality Assurance (QA)

• Responsible for QA assessments on all products, ensuring compliance with CCP (Critical Control Points) and food safety standards. (HACCP, GMP)

• Develop and maintain QA documentation for all products, including international labelling compliance, PIFs (Product Information Forms), FSANZ approvals, allergen testing, and certifications (e.g., Halal, Kosher, FDA).

• Work with production teams (both in-house and external partners) to ensure consistency and quality across all product batches.

• Implement and review quality control procedures, conducting internal and external audits to maintain product quality, minimise risk, evaluate the integrity of the plan.

• Manage certification audits and processes related to HACCP,  ACO, Kosher, Halah, and other relevant standards.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Management

• Act as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, maintaining open and efficient lines of communication.

• Collaborate with the sales team to create product lines and meet market demands while ensuring all quality aspects are addressed.

• Support procurement by vetting suppliers and ensuring they meet the company's quality and ethical standards and certifications.

• Participate in audits,  assist and develop corrective actions for product and process improvements.

• Ensure that international and local QA standards are met across all suppliers and production facilities.

Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Regularly report on product development progress, QA issues, and improvement plans to senior management.

• Track and analyze production and QA data to improve product consistency, resolve quality issues, and maintain high standards with consistency.

• Manage and close CARs (Corrective Action Requests) within agreed timelines to prevent recurring issues. Take preventative action to minimise CARS.

• Oversee product testing, including microbiological and sensory tests, ensuring results align with product specifications.

Key Requirements

Experience – More than 5 years of experience in a QA as a Coordinator or higher, or product development role within the food industry.

Technical Skills - Good knowledge of food chemistry, NPD, raw ingredient processing, and packaging. Experience in food safety standards (HACCP, FSANZ, etc.) is essential.

QA Expertise - Hands-on experience managing quality assurance programs, conducting audits, and ensuring product compliance with international standards.

Problem-Solving - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a solution-oriented mindset.

Project Management - Ability to manage multiple projects, timelines, and stakeholders while maintaining focus on business goals.

Communication Skills - Excellent written and verbal communication skills to liaise with internal teams and external partners.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Chemistry, or a related Quality Assurance Qualification.

• Experience with international clients and understanding of GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices).

• Knowledge of quality improvement methods and ability to implement process enhancements.