Senior Director, Food Safety & Quality (FSQ)

Senior Director, Food Safety & Quality (FSQ)The Senior Director, Food Safety & Quality (FSQ) is responsible for leading and advancing the company's food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance programs across all manufacturing sites. This role ensures products meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and customer expectations while maintaining compliance with all applicable regulations. The Senior Director partners cross-functionally to drive enterprise-wide FSQ initiatives and foster a strong culture of food safety and quality.Essential FunctionsDevelop and execute the company's Food Safety & Quality strategy aligned with business objectivesServe as the enterprise leader for FSQ across all manufacturing facilities and distribution networksBuild and promote a strong food safety and quality culture across the organizationOversee implementation and continuous improvement of FSQ systems, including HACCP, HARPC, GMPs, SSOPs, and environmental monitoring programsEnsure all facilities maintain certification to applicable GFSI standards (e.g., SQF, BRCGS, FSSC 22000)Lead internal, external, and regulatory audits and drive corrective and preventive actionsEnsure compliance with all applicable U.S. and international regulations, including FDA (FSMA), USDA, and state/local requirementsServe as the primary liaison with regulatory agencies during inspections and inquiriesIdentify, assess, and mitigate food safety and quality risks across the supply chainLead root cause analysis and corrective action processes for quality and food safety incidentsDrive continuous improvement initiatives using data analytics and industry best practicesGuide the organization in evaluating and implementing new strategies, technologies, and equipment to enhance food safety and data collectionPartner with Commercial and R&D teams to support customer requirements, audits, and new product developmentEnsure timely and effective response to customer complaints and quality issuesLead, mentor, and develop a high-performing FSQ team across multiple locationsEstablish clear performance expectations and promote cross-functional collaborationPerform other duties as assignedQualificationsEducation & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field required; Master's preferred1215+ years of progressive experience in food safety and quality within the food manufacturing industryExperience leading multi-site or global FSQ operationsExperience in food ingredients, CPG, or industrial food manufacturing environments preferredTechnical SkillsStrong knowledge of FSMA, FDA regulatory requirements, and GFSI-recognized standards (SQF, BRCGS, FSSC 22000)Expertise in HACCP, Preventive Controls, sanitation, allergen control, and supplier quality managementPCQI certification required or ability to obtainStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsLeadership CompetenciesProven ability to lead through influence and drive organizational changeStrong communication skills with the ability to engage senior leadership and external stakeholdersAbility to manage multiple priorities and lead cross-functional initiativesWork Environment & TravelBased in the United States; proximity to a major manufacturing site or corporate HQ preferredTravel up to 3050% to manufacturing facilities and suppliersCompensation: $185,000-$230,000Benefits:Medical InsurancePrescription Drug PlanDental/Vision InsuranceEmployee Incentive PlanFlexible Spending AccountCash Accumulation Plan-401KLife/AD&D InsuranceShort- Term/Long-Term DisabilityVacation PlanPaid HolidaysEmployee Assistance ProgramAdoption Assistance ProgramTuition ReimbursementMaternity/Paternity LeavePet Insurance