Quality Assurance Manager

Edwards & Pearce; Pontefract; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food processing company based near Pontefract is seeking an experienced Quality Assurance Manager to oversee quality assurance operations. You will lead the QC team to ensure all products meet regulatory and customer standards. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree, at least 5 years of experience, and strong leadership skills. Benefits include a salary of £45,000 to £50,000, 26 days holiday, and a pension. Flexibility in working hours is also required.

Benefits

26 days holiday plus 3 for Christmas

Discounts on company products

Pension

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in quality assurance, food safety, or quality control management in food processing.
• Strong understanding of meat processing, food safety regulations, and quality control principles.
• Proficiency with quality control tools and software.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain quality assurance programs for product compliance.
• Oversee food safety compliance and risk management.
• Lead continuous process improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Education

Degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Animal Science or related field

Certifications in HACCP, SQF or similar quality management systems

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Our client is a UK leading food processor based near Pontefract specialising in pre prepared products, catering to places such as supermarkets and food service providers.

They are seeking a skilled and experienced Quality Assurance Manager to join their team. As the Quality Assurance Manager your job is to oversee the quality assurance operations across all stages of production, ensuring that all products meet company standards as well as regulatory and customer requirements. Leading the QC Team, collaborating cross-functionally across the business to implement strategic quality systems to optimise product consistency, safety, and quality.

THE ROLE

• Quality Management: Develop, implement, and maintain quality assurance programs that ensure all products meet company and industry standards for quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Food Safety Compliance: Oversee and enforce adherence to all customer specifications, ensure compliance and mitigate food safety risks.
• Process Improvement: Lead continuous improvement initiatives aimed at reducing defects, improving yield, increasing efficiency, and enhancing product consistency. Use data-driven insights to drive decision-making.
• Team Leadership: Manage and mentor the QC team, fostering a culture of quality throughout the company. Provide training, development opportunities, and performance evaluations for team members.
• Audit & Inspection: Coordinate and lead internal and external audits to ensure compliance with all applicable food safety and quality standards. Prepare for and participate in 3rd Party and customer audits as needed.
• Documentation & Reporting: Ensure accurate documentation of all quality control processes, testing results, non-conformities, corrective actions, and customer complaints. Prepare reports for senior management.
• Customer & Regulatory Liaison: Address and resolve any quality issues or complaints in a timely manner.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks to product quality and food safety, and implement corrective actions and preventative measures to minimize those risks.
• Working hours are Monday to Friday 7.00am to 3.00pm; however some flexibility is required for business needs.

THE CANDIDATE

• Education: Degree in Food Science, Meat Science, Animal Science, or a related field. Certifications in HACCP, SQF, or similar quality management systems are preferred.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of experience in quality assurance, food safety, or quality control management within the red meat or food processing industry.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of meat processing operations, food safety regulations, quality control principles, and lean manufacturing practices. Familiarity with HACCP, GMP, and other relevant standards.
• Skills: Excellent leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills. Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities. Strong analytical skills and proficiency with quality control tools and software (e.g., Microsoft Office).
• Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail and precision in all aspects of quality management, including documentation and inspection.
• Physical Demands: Ability to work in a production environment with exposure to temperature variations and occasional physical labour as required.

BENEFITS

• Salary: £45,000 to £50,000
• 26 days holiday plus 3 for Christmas
• Discounts on company products
• Pension
• Location: South Kirkby, near Pontefract
• Hours of work: Monday to Friday 7.00am to 3.00pm, however flexibility when needed

Edwards & Pearce is an Equal Opportunities Employer.