qa & fsms lead

Designation: Quality Assurance Head

                                                                        Reporting to: General Manager

Lead the organization's quality assurance (QA) and food safety management systems (FSMS) to ensure the highest standards of product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. Oversee the implementation of robust systems, certifications, audits, and training programs while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.

1. Quality Assurance Leadership:
   • Develop and implement the organization’s quality assurance strategy to align with business objectives.
   • Establish and maintain quality standards, processes, and systems to ensure consistent product excellence.
2. BRC and FSMS Oversight:
   • Manage the implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of BRC Global Standards and FSMS.
   • Ensure compliance with local and international food safety standards, including FSSAI regulations.
3. Regulatory Compliance:
   • Monitor and ensure adherence to all regulatory requirements applicable to the organization.
   • Stay updated on changes in regulations and standards, ensuring timely implementation of necessary adjustments.
4. Audits and Certification Management:
   • Lead internal, supplier, customer, and third-party audits, ensuring successful outcomes.
   • Address non-conformities promptly with effective corrective and preventive actions.
   • Oversee the preparation and execution of customer and certification audits.
5. Specification and Documentation Management:
   • Oversee the development, review, and control of product specifications, ensuring compliance with regulatory and customer requirements.
   • Maintain comprehensive documentation and records, including audit findings, corrective actions, and compliance reports.
6. Process and System Improvements:
   • Identify and implement process improvements to enhance product quality, safety, and operational efficiency.
   • Leverage data analytics to monitor trends and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
7. Supplier Quality Management:
   • Conduct supplier audits and assessments to ensure compliance with quality and regulatory standards.
   • Work collaboratively with suppliers to implement corrective actions and maintain high-quality raw materials and services.
8. Laboratory Operations
   • Supervise lab testing processes, ensuring accurate and timely results.
   • Implement quality control protocols and equipment calibration schedules.

1. • Use lab data to support decision-making and identify trends in product quality.
2. Pre-Requisite Program (PRP) Management:
   • Oversee the implementation and monitoring of PRPs, including sanitation, pest control, GMPs, allergen man
   • agement, and traceability.
   • Ensure PRP effectiveness through routine audits, training, and corrective actions.

1. Training and Employee Development:
   • Design and deliver training programs to enhance employee awareness of QA, FSMS, and regulatory requirements.
   • Foster a culture of accountability, quality consciousness, and continuous learning across the organization.
2. Customer Portal and Communication Management:
   • Ensure accurate and timely management of online customer portals, including sharing specifications, certifications, and compliance information.
   • Act as a key liaison between customers and the organization for quality-related inquiries and audits.
3. Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
   • Establish and monitor key quality performance indicators (KPIs) to track compliance, efficiency, and effectiveness.
   • Prepare and present detailed reports on quality performance, audit outcomes, and regulatory compliance to stakeholders.
4. Compliance and Sustainability:
   • Ensure adherence to safety, quality, and sustainability standards across all operations.
   • Drive initiatives to reduce waste, improve resource efficiency, and support environmental sustainability goals.
5. Qualifications & Experience:
   • Bachelor’s/Master’s in Food Science/ Food Technology/Microbiology/Biotechnology
   • Strong knowledge of FSSAI, global food regulations, and customer-specific food safety requirements.
   • Strong analytical, communication, and management skills.
6. Work Experience
   • 12-18 years of experience in quality assurance & food safety in food processing/FMCG
   • 5+ years in a senior QA leadership role (e.g., QA Manager, QA Head, or Food Safety Lead)
   • Strong background in food safety audits, regulatory compliance, and certification processes
   • Experience in customer audits and supplier quality management
   • Exposure to international food safety standards for exports
   • Monitoring food safety risks, recalls, and corrective action plans
   • Implementing real-time monitoring systems & data-driven quality improvements
   • Managing an in-house microbiology and analytical lab

experience