Quality Manager

The Collective Network Limited; Aylesford; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The Collective Network Limited is seeking a QA leader to drive quality assurance at a major fresh produce site. You will oversee daily QA activities, mentor the team, and ensure compliance with retailer and site standards.

You will report to the Technical Manager and play a pivotal role in audits, HACCP, and site-wide quality culture, enabling swift, effective responses to issues and continuous improvements.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in a food technical or quality role
• Proven experience in leading and developing teams
• Excellent communication skills, organised, and confident decision-maker
• HACCP, food safety, or auditing qualifications are advantageous

Responsibilities

• Building and developing a high-performing QA team
• Investigating quality issues and customer complaints, implementing effective, lasting solutions
• Managing Hold and Release processes to maintain product standards
• Collaborating with the wider site team to meet retailer and site standards
• Supporting internal audits, GMP, fabrication, metal detection, check weighing, calibration, and taste panels
• Reporting on quality KPIs and recognising team achievements
• Fostering a positive, audit-ready culture across the site

Skills

QA leadership

Quality assurance experience

Team management

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

HACCP certification

Food safety auditing qualifications

Job description

Are you ready to lead quality assurance for the largest food manufacturer in its category?

This is an excellent opportunity to manage QA at a fresh produce site where quality is paramount and your efforts will be recognised. The role is fast-paced and varied, ensuring no two days are the same.

You will report to a supportive Technical Manager and oversee the daily activities of the QA team, including:

• Building and developing a high-performing QA team
• Investigating quality issues and customer complaints, implementing effective, lasting solutions
• Managing Hold and Release processes to maintain product standards
• Collaborating with the wider site team to meet retailer and site standards
• Supporting internal audits, GMP, fabrication, metal detection, check weighing, calibration, and taste panels
• Reporting on quality KPIs and recognising team achievements
• Fostering a positive, audit-ready culture across the site

What we’re looking for:

• At least 5 years’ experience in a food technical or quality role
• Proven experience in leading and developing teams
• Excellent communication skills, organised, and confident decision-maker
• HACCP, food safety, or auditing qualifications are advantageous