Sr. Director Of Food Safety, Quality Assurance And Research/Development

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Director of Quality, Food Safety and Research and Development to lead our organization's efforts in product innovation, Quality Assurance, and Food Safety compliance. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food science, research and development methodologies, quality management systems, and regulatory requirements. They will be responsible for driving innovation, ensuring product quality, and maintaining high standards of Food Safety across all stages of the product lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the Research and Development (R&D) department, including setting strategic goals, managing resources, and leading cross-functional teams in conjunction with marketing to assist in the development of innovative food products.
• Assist with the Creation of Detailed Product Specifications: Develop comprehensive product specifications that outline all relevant details, including ingredients, allergens, nutritional information, shelf life, storage conditions, packaging requirements and manufacturing processes. Ensure accuracy and clarity in the specifications.
• Lead Quality Assurance programs to ensure compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements and customer expectations.
• Develop and implement quality management systems, including SOPs, GMPs, HACCP, and other relevant standards to maintain product quality and safety.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with regulatory agencies, industry partners and stakeholders to stay informed of changes in Food Safety regulations and best practices.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections of production facilities to monitor adherence to quality and Food Safety standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, supply chain, and marketing, to ensure alignment of R&D and quality objectives with overall business goals.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to R&D, quality, and Food Safety teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and excellence.
• Analyze and interpret data from quality control tests, consumer feedback, and market research to identify opportunities for process improvement and product optimization.
• Prepare and present reports, findings, and recommendations to senior management regarding R&D, quality, and Food Safety performance, initiatives, and challenges.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related field required.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in Quality Assurance, Food Safety management
• within the food industry.
• Strong knowledge of Food science principles, ingredient functionality, product
• formulation, and sensory evaluation techniques.
• Proven track record of successfully launching new products from concept to
• commercialization.
• Expertise in quality management systems, including ISO standards, GMPs, HACCP, and
• FDA regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to
• influence and collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Experience managing cross-functional teams and driving results in a fast-paced, dynamic
• environment.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Certification in Food Safety (e.g., Certified Food Scientist, SQF Practitioner, PCQI) is a
• plus.
• Ability to travel as needed to visit production facilities, attend industry events, and meet
• with stakeholders.