SHEQ Systems Manager

Sovereign Foods Ltd; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A national supplier of quality chicken products is seeking a SHEQ Systems Manager to oversee compliance with SHEQ operations in its Agriculture Division. The ideal candidate must hold a relevant degree and possess 5 to 8 years of experience in quality control. Key responsibilities include developing and maintaining an integrated SHEQ management system, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and tracking non-conformities. This is an exciting opportunity for those driven to achieve results in a quality-focused environment.

Qualifications

• 5 to 8 years’ experience in quality control or assurance environment.
• Experience in implementing a recognised SHEQ system.
• Proven track record in a relevant field.

Responsibilities

• Develop and amend the framework for an integrated SHEQ Management System.
• Track and drive closure of Agri SHEQ non-conformities.
• Coordinate conformance to existing and new legislation regarding SHEQ.

Skills

SHEQ systems implementation

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Attention to detail

Education

BSc degree or equivalent in Agriculture or Quality Management

Job description

Sovereign, a national supplier of quality chicken products to various markets with operations in five provinces, is seeking a thorough and committed individual for the position of SHEQ Systems Manager for its SHEQ operations in the Agriculture Division. The SHEQ Systems Manager is responsible for driving compliance with all applicable legal and other requirements and maintaining a robust Integrated SHEQ management system. This position reports to the Agri SHEQ Manager and holds the TASK Grade T13.

The ideal candidate must be in possession of a BSc degree, or a degree in Agriculture (Animal), or a BTech in Quality Management or a similar tertiary qualification and have 5 to 8 years’ experience in a quality control or assurance environment, preferably in an organisation that is ISO 9001 or FSSC 22000 accredited. A proven track record is essential and experience in implementing a recognised SHEQ system will be advantageous. A valid driver’s license is required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and amend the framework for an integrated SHEQ Management System that meets legislative and other requirements, export and import requirements, global animal wellness system requirements, AFMA and industry requirements, railway safety system and NOSA requirements.
• Identify SHEQ system documentation requirements based on applicable standards and drive compliance.
• Create and maintain an efficient SHEQ system with ease of access to documentation.
• Track and drive closure of Agri SHEQ non-conformities.
• Identify and implement System changes that drive efficiency in record-keeping.
• Coordinate conformance to existing and new legislation pertaining to SHEQ system.
• Set up reports aligned with Group Environmental Sustainability reporting and report to Agri SHEQ Manager.
• Coordinate the submission of Environmental Sustainability inputs and report in a format aligned to Sovereign group requirements.
• Proactively identifying commercial needs from the SHEQ system/Agri operations and supplying such records.

Qualifications

• Sound knowledge of SHEQ systems implementation
• Good Quality background and knowledge
• Good analytical skills and the ability to take corrective action
• Excellent communication skills
• Good organisational skills
• Energise those around you
• Driven to achieve results and quality
• Assertive but approachable
• Excellent attention to detail
• Have a hands‑on approach

Closing Date: 14 January 2026

As Sovereign is an equal opportunity employer, preference will be given to applicants of designated groups, as defined by the Employment Equity Act.