Regulatory Compliance Manager

Imbibe; Niles (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Manager of Regulatory Affairs to lead compliance efforts for food and flavor products. This role requires a deep understanding of food regulations and the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. You will manage a team, ensure adherence to regulatory standards, and provide guidance on product claims and market strategies. The position offers a dynamic work environment where your expertise will directly impact product quality and safety. Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and compliance, and help shape the future of food safety and regulations.

Benefits

401k company contribution + match

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision care

FSA and HSA account

Generous PTO + sick time

Onsite gym

Parental leave

Life and disability insurance

Qualifications

• 7+ years in regulatory affairs within the food and flavor industry.
• Strong knowledge of food regulations and compliance standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee regulatory compliance for food and flavor products.
• Lead and mentor a team of regulatory specialists.
• Ensure compliance with FDA, USDA, and other regulations.

Skills

Regulatory Compliance

Leadership

Communication Skills

Analytical Skills

Attention to Detail

Problem-Solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry

Bachelor’s degree in Biology

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science

Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition

Tools

Genesis

Product Vision

Compliance Cloud

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

Summary of Position

The Manager of Regulatory Affairs is responsible for overseeing all aspects of regulatory compliance related to our food and flavor products. This individual possesses an in-depth knowledge of food regulations, has strong leadership abilities, and excellent communication skills.

Essential Job Duties

• Serve as a liaison between Customers and operating divisions of the company.
• Lead, mentor, and train a team of direct & indirect regulatory/quality specialists.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable food and flavor regulations set by regulatory bodies such as the FDA, USDA, CFIA, EFFA, and other international regulatory agencies. Stay updated on changes to regulations and communicate implications to relevant stakeholders.
• Review product claims for use and approval in the intended market; ensure legal compliance for all regulatory requirements based on product status and intended market for distribution.
• Work closely with the Team to maintain product quality and safety standards. Provide regulatory input on customer requested documents and questionnaires.
• Closely monitor, assess, and lead improvements to existing work processes.
• Support the Sales, Customer Service and Marketing teams with external inquiries related to products and ingredients.
• Provide regulatory advice on route-to-market for new innovations, working with external experts where needed for new categories or channels.
• Manage data and document compilation for the development of individual product specification.
• Provide leadership on Regulatory initiatives, implementation, training, and compliance.
• Coordinate the implementation of programs, policies, SOPs, and practices to ensure smooth operation of internal and external processes.
• Supports document management for all regulatory and company-wide third-party certifications (e.g. Organic, Kosher, etc.) ensuring that all regulatory related issues are addressed in compliance with written processes, procedures and/or applicable requirements.
• Oversee and maintain compliance with NOP rules. Lead annual organic audit with 3rd party certifying agency. Provide support and follow up in solving any issues uncovered during audit.
• Develop and deliver regulatory training programs for internal teams and external customers to enhance awareness and understanding of regulatory requirements and best practices.
• Work closely with cross-functional leadership teams and Executive leadership team to ensure that the regulatory strategy aligns with commercial goals.
• Represent the company in industry associations and regulatory forums. Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging regulatory issues.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, food science, nutrition, or other related fields.
• Minimum 7 years of relevant industry experience in product safety and regulatory affairs in the food and flavor industry.
• Excellent understanding of 21 CFR Part 101, 7 CFR Parts 205 and 206, NOP, OEHHA Prop 65, Non-GMO Project Verified guidelines.
• Working knowledge of food and flavor regulations set by the regulatory bodies in Canada, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Mercosur, and the rest of the APAC region.
• Ability to make educated judgements on authenticity, accuracy, and appropriateness of information. Must be able to prioritize and provide input on regulatory aspects.
• Must continually demonstrate a very strong attention to detail, careful execution of tasks, and regularly check own work before any submission.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient with applicable database and compliance software like Genesis, Product Vision, or Compliance Cloud.
• Ability to apply food and packaging regulations to critical business decisions.
• Ability to work collaboratively and thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Ability to remain in a stationary sitting position 75% of the time.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in coaching, mentoring, and developing team members.
• Knowledge of FEMA flavors, FMPs and TTB rules.
• Experience working with regulatory databases and software applications is a plus.
• Strong Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail with the ability to manage ambiguity effectively.

Working Conditions

• Office setting.

Pay range: $100,000 - $120,000

The salary range listed represents the expected earnings for this role. The low end of the range reflects the starting salary for candidates with less experience or qualifications that meet the basic requirements for the position. The high end of the range reflects potential earnings for candidates with extensive experience, specialized skills, or qualifications above the standard requirements for the role.

Benefits

• 401k company contribution + match.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision care.
• FSA and HSA account.
• Generous PTO + sick time.
• Onsite gym.
• Parental leave.
• Life and disability insurance.