Head of Quality (Fresh Produce)

Pure Staff - Head Office - Permanent; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading quality control firm in Greater London is looking for a Quality Control Manager to oversee compliance and manage the quality assurance processes for fresh produce. The role demands HACCP training, at least 3 years of experience in a relevant industry, and strong leadership skills. The ideal candidate will manage inspections, maintain quality standards, and ensure team compliance with safety regulations. You will be responsible for leading a QC team, requiring solid organizational skills and effective communication at all levels.

Qualifications

• 3 – 5 years working in a fresh produce pack-house or grower.
• Senior QC / technical role in fresh produce.
• Experience managing citrus / grape categories.

Responsibilities

• Maintain the Approved Supplier List and ensure accuracy.
• Oversee compliance and manage daily order sheets.
• Manage intake inspections for grape and citrus consignments.
• Lead the QC team and provide training.

Skills

HACCP trained

Quality management skills

Effective communication

IT literate

Problem-solving ability

Leadership skills

Organisational skills

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Prophet

Rubicon

Job description

Duties

• Maintain the Approved Supplier List and Approved Grower List, ensuring accuracy and circulation.
• Oversee compliance and manage retraction / updates as required. Ensure daily order sheets are completed and accurate.
• Maintain customer specifications and ensure team compliance. Oversee weekly information packs for internal / external stakeholders.
• Manage intake inspections for grape, citrus, apple, and kiwi consignments.
• Ensure red label (concessionary) product is correctly controlled.
• Ensure returned / rejected product is re‑inspected, root cause investigated, and corrective action taken.
• Oversee contingency purchases and product liability matters.
• Manage shelf‑life testing and reporting.
• Oversee APG positive release procedures (grower / shipper checks).
• Conduct regular stock reviews and cold store checks.
• Ensure check‑weighing and weights/ measures compliance.
• Monitor clandestine contamination, food safety, and DEFRA audit procedures (e.g. PHEATS).
• Ensure correct policies and procedures for equipment calibration and use.
• Lead the QC team: recruitment, training, PPE provision, internal performance reviews.
• Manage staff motivation, discipline, absence, and sickness.
• Maintain training records and ensure all QC staff are trained in required procedures.
• Provide input into operational meetings and ensure effective communication across the team.
• Ensure compliance with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974.

Qualifications

• HACCP trained.
• 3 – 5 years working within a fresh produce pack‑house or grower.
• Senior QC / technical role in fresh produce.
• Experience managing citrus / grape categories.
• Strong quality management skills.
• Effective communicator at all levels.
• Administrative and organisational skills.
• IT literate: Microsoft Word, Excel, and bespoke systems (Prophet or Rubicon).
• Ability to adapt and prioritise in a changing environment.
• Self‑motivated and proactive.
• Methodical thinker with problem‑solving ability.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Resilient, adaptable, and detail focused.