Quality Systems Leader

William Jackson Food Group; Carr Hall Cottages; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food distribution company in the UK is searching for a Quality Systems Leader. This role involves managing the quality management systems, ensuring compliance with regulations, and driving a culture of quality within the organization. Responsibilities include overseeing audits, managing allergen programs, and leading food safety initiatives. Ideal candidates will have experience in the food industry and quality assurance, with a thorough understanding of BRC requirements and HACCP practices. Competitive benefits are offered including 33 days holiday and employee discounts.

Benefits

33 days holiday

Generous employee discounts

Volunteering leave

Cycle to Work Scheme

Charity donation via payroll

Holiday Purchase Scheme

Employee assistance services

Qualifications

• Experience managing a quality management system.
• Strong knowledge of food safety practices.
• Ability to lead audits and quality initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Manage the site's quality management system.
• Lead safety culture and food safety training.
• Conduct internal and GMP audits.

Skills

Current experience within the Food Industry

Quality Assurance experience

Ability to translate BRC requirements

Proficiency with MS Office

Knowledge of HACCP

Education

Internal Audit Qualification

Train the Trainer certification

Job description

Overview

The Quality Systems Leader is responsible for the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the organisation's quality management systems (QMS). This role ensures that all policies, procedures, and practices meet regulatory, customer, and industry standards, driving a culture of quality, compliance, and operational excellence. The postholder acts as a key partner to operational teams, proactively supporting audit readiness and fostering consistent, high-quality performance across the business.

Responsibilities

• Manage the site QMS system and work alongside the Supplier Approval and Specification Leader.
• Ensure all paperwork is current and the correct versions are issued to each department.
• Be the main stakeholder for the site allergen management program (AMP).
• Maintain and manage adherence of the internal label systems in terms of allergen and traceability information.
• Play an instrumental part in the development of a digital platform QMS.
• Champion Food Safety Culture of the site by actively participating in site training and development of staff and managing site FSC surveys.
• Ensure all key information is completed regarding site, process and product information for customers or 2nd/3rd party audits.
• Lead the Safety Culture platform and manage updates required.
• Lead the site pest control contractors, ensuring actions are completed within timescales.
• Ensure all trend analyses are completed to deadlines.
• Oversee the completion of GMP audits.
• Collate micro samples, swabs, nutritional and fresh check swabs and ensure these are done to schedule.
• Ensure all operational tasks are completed to schedule GMP.
• Complete internal audits to schedule and conduct monthly traceability audits; assist with site product recalls or withdrawals as needed.
• Manage site calibration of equipment, ensuring all equipment has a valid calibration certificate.
• Ensure all returned paperwork is completed correctly and raise any issues with the relevant manager.
• Continually improve site trend analysis on business KPIs and report findings.
• Track, trend and report on supplier performance. Investigate non-conformances with the Buying teams and suppliers.
• Investigate customer complaints, effectively communicating with all key stakeholders.
• Ensure all key information is completed regarding site, process and product information for customers or 2nd/3rd party audits.
• People responsibilities: ensure mandatory training schedules are in place and delivered on time; identify and embed daily tasks and accountabilities to empower the team to meet standards; participate in disciplinary and grievance investigations as appropriate; establish and maintain strong working relationships with all departments.
• Develop and maintain an environment of respect and accountability to promote a cooperative working culture.
• Support with delivering the Food Safety aspect of the Company's induction day.
• Internal Audit Qualification (desirable); Train the Trainer (or similar) would be desirable.
• Current experience within the Food Industry and Quality Assurance experience is essential.
• Ability to translate BRC requirements and implement them within the QMS.
• Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel) and operational systems.
• Knowledge of HACCP.

About the Company

Wellocks is one of the leading UK fresh food distributors using the finest ingredients to support chefs with quality ingredients. We offer pre-prepared veg items as an integral part of our service. We are part of the William Jackson Food Group, a family-owned business since 1851 with sister businesses including Abel & Cole, Jacksons Bakery and Belazu.

Benefits

• 33 days holiday (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
• Generous employee discounts on all products
• One day of volunteering leave per year
• Cycle to Work Scheme with discounted bikes and equipment
• Charity donation via payroll (pre-tax benefit)
• Holiday Purchase Scheme
• Employee assistance services for finances, health and wellbeing

All colleagues are expected to take personal responsibility for keeping our workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying - a place where everyone is treated fairly and respectfully. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to equality of opportunity.