The 3rd Party Quality Assurance Executive/ Senior Executive/Asst.Manager is responsible for overseeing and ensuring the consistent application of quality assurance protocols and food safety standards within a designated food manufacturing plant. This role acts as an impartial third-party, providing expert oversight, independent verification, and continuous improvement recommendations to enhance product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in food science, quality assurance, and a thorough understanding of relevant food safety regulations (e.g., FSSAI, HACCP, GMP, ISO 22000).
Key Responsibilities:
1. Quality Assurance and Food Safety Oversight:
* Conduct regular, unannounced inspections of production lines, raw material storage, finished product warehousing, and all operational areas to ensure adherence to established quality and food safety standards. * Verify the implementation and effectiveness of the plants HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) plan, PRPs (Prerequisite Programs), and OPRPs (Operational Prerequisite Programs). * Monitor and verify critical control points (CCPs) and ensure appropriate corrective actions are taken when deviations occur. * Review and approve incoming raw materials, packaging materials, and finished products against specifications. * Oversee the calibration and maintenance of quality testing equipment. * Ensure proper sanitation procedures are followed throughout the plant.
2. Auditing and Compliance:
* Perform internal audits (product, process, system) to identify non-conformities and areas for improvement against client specifications, internal standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g., FSSAI regulations, local health codes). * Assist the plant in preparing for and participating in external audits (e.g., regulatory, customer, certification audits). * Ensure compliance with all applicable national and international food safety regulations and standards. * Maintain thorough and accurate documentation of all audits, inspections, and quality records.
3. Data Analysis and Reporting:
* Collect, analyze, and interpret quality data (e.g., sensory analysis, microbiological testing, physical attributes, complaint data). * Generate detailed reports on quality performance, non-conformances, and corrective actions for the premises. * Identify trends, root causes of quality issues, and recommend preventative measures. * Present findings and recommendations to plant management and stakeholders.
4. Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA):
* Investigate customer complaints, internal non-conformances, and quality deviations thoroughly to determine root causes. * Collaborate with plant personnel to develop and implement effective corrective and preventive actions. * Follow up on the effectiveness of implemented CAPAs to ensure sustained improvement.
5. Training and Development:
* Provide guidance and support to plant personnel on quality assurance and food safety best practices. * Identify training needs and potentially assist in the delivery of training programs related to food safety, GMPs, and quality control.
6. Continuous Improvement:
* Proactively identify opportunities for process optimization and quality enhancement within the plant. * Work collaboratively with plant management and production teams to implement improvement initiatives. * Stay updated on industry best practices, emerging food safety risks, and regulatory changes.
7. Relationship Management:
* Maintain a professional and collaborative working relationship with all levels of staff at the food plant. * Act as a liaison between [Your Company and the 3P Vendor to ensure clear communication and alignment on quality objectives.
Qualifications:
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Education:
Bachelors degree or Master s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related scientific field. -
Experience:
- Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in Quality Assurance/Food Safety within the food manufacturing industry.
- Experience working in a 3rd party auditing or consulting role is highly desirable.
- Strong understanding of various food processing technologies.
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Certifications (Preferred):
- HACCP Certification
- Internal Auditor training for food safety management systems.
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Skills:
- Good knowledge of food safety principles, quality management systems, and regulatory requirements (FSSAI, etc.).
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
- Good communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.
- Proficient in using quality management software and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Ability to work independently, make sound decisions, and manage multiple priorities.
- Strong ethical conduct and integrity.
- Ability to travel as needed (if applicable, e.g., to different plant locations).