Food Safety Quality Manager

About The RoleOur client, a leading baked goods manufacturing company, is seeking an experienced Food Safety & Quality Manager to lead and maintain site-wide food safety and quality systems. This role is critical in ensuring compliance with BRCGS, HACCP, and regulatory standards, while driving continuous improvement, audit readiness, and product integrity across operations.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the development, implementation, and maintenance of the Food Safety & Quality Management System (FSQMS) aligned with BRCGS and HACCP/FSMA standardsAct as the primary lead for all BRCGS, customer, and regulatory audits and inspectionsDevelop and manage HACCP plans, including hazard analysis, CCP monitoring, and verification activitiesEnsure compliance with FDA, USDA (as applicable), and other regulatory requirementsOversee quality control processes: raw materials, in-process checks, and finished product evaluationsDrive root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) for non-conformances and customer complaintsEstablish and track KPIs related to food safety, quality, and sanitationManage environmental monitoring and allergen control programs specific to bakery productionOversee supplier approval programs, including qualification, audits, and performance managementLead employee training on GMPs, food safety, sanitation, and quality standardsCollaborate cross-functionally with Production, Maintenance, and R&D teamsDrive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality, compliance, and operational efficiencyQualificationsBachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or a related field5+ years of experience in food safety and quality within a manufacturing environment (bakery or RTE products preferred)Strong knowledge of BRCGS, HACCP, and GMPsHACCP Certification (required); PCQI and Food Defense certifications preferredProven experience leading third-party audits (BRCGS experience strongly preferred)Solid understanding of FDA regulations, including FSMAStrong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skillsPreferred ExperienceExperience in high-speed bakery production environmentsFamiliarity with allergen management (wheat, dairy, egg, soy)Experience with quality management systems and digital documentation toolsKey CompetenciesStrong attention to detail and regulatory compliance focusLeadership and team developmentAnalytical thinking and root cause analysisAudit readiness and documentation managementCross-functional collaboration