QA Manager

About This Role

Making a visible difference on the factory floor by developing people and improving standards is at the heart of this Quality Assurance Manager role. This is an opportunity to lead a dedicated team, influence site-wide quality standards, and help shape a positive, proactive food safety culture within a fast-paced chilled food manufacturing environment. Approximately 80% of your time will be spent in manufacturing areas, building relationships and driving meaningful improvements.

Responsibilities

• Manage, coach, and support the factory QA team, ensuring effective shift coverage, clear responsibilities, and opportunities for professional development
• Maintain robust standards across HACCP, GMP, allergen management, hygiene, traceability, and product integrity, ensuring compliance with legislation and customer requirements
• Analyse quality performance, investigate complaints and non-conformances, and work collaboratively to implement sustainable corrective actions
• Coordinate internal auditing activities, support retailer and third-party audits, and ensure Quality Management Systems remain effective and compliant
• Work closely with Production, Hygiene, Engineering, and Technical colleagues to resolve challenges, strengthen factory standards, and promote shared accountability

Requirements

• Experience with in Quality Assurance or Technical functions in food manufacturing, ideally within chilled food production
• A practical understanding of food safety legislation, HACCP, GMP, allergen management, and quality risk assessment
• Experience of leading, coaching, or developing colleagues, with the confidence to provide clear direction and constructive feedback
• Knowledge of Quality Management Systems, internal auditing, root cause analysis, and corrective and preventative actions
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to build positive relationships across operational teams
• Confidence in making balanced, risk-based decisions within a busy manufacturing environment
• Good organisational and IT skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office applications

Nice to have:

• Experience of BRCGS standards, retailer requirements, or high-care manufacturing
• Qualifications in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related discipline, alongside HACCP, Food Safety, or auditing certifications

Benefits

• A permanent opportunity within an established food manufacturing environment
• A visible leadership position with the opportunity to influence quality standards and operational improvements
• The chance to develop a team, strengthen technical capability, and contribute to long-term continuous improvement