Director of FSQA/Food Safety and Quality

This is an onsite role located in the Central Valley, CA near Fresno/Clovis (not remote).

About the role

We are seeking a senior, advanced-level Director of Food Safety and Quality Assurance to oversee the full strategy for a diverse ready-to-eat and beverage product portfolio. This role covers multiple sites but is primarily based in Fresno/Clovis, CA. The position offers the opportunity to shape a market-leading brand and provides advancement for individuals who can drive operational discipline, regulatory alignment, and continuous improvement across production sites. We are looking for a strong manager and leader who can guide facility teams to ensure consistent compliance, risk reduction, and quality performance.

Responsibilities

• Direct the design, implementation, and oversight of all FSQA programs, including SOPs, SSOPs, HACCP plans, verification activities, and documentation systems.
• Manage risk prevention programs such as HACCP/HARPC, environmental monitoring, allergen management, foreign material control, and traceability readiness.
• Track and improve performance metrics including quality hold impact, claim trends, micro testing compliance, sanitation results, audit closure timing, and overall FSQA cost efficiency.
• Lead structured change management for new processes, equipment, formulations, labeling updates, and sanitation materials, ensuring documented risk assessments.
• Oversee corrective and preventive action processes, ensuring strong root cause analysis, timely follow-up, and clear reporting of trends.
• Integrate FSQA expectations into daily operations by partnering with Production, Maintenance, and Sanitation to reinforce routine checks and process controls.
• Coach and develop plant-level teams to strengthen ownership of quality and sanitation practices.
• Guide cross-functional reviews of FSQA performance, customer feedback, environmental findings, and process capability to drive rapid issue resolution.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive FSQA leadership experience in large-scale food manufacturing, including RTE refrigerated and fluid food processing.
• Demonstrated experience with Global GAP, GFSI BRC standards, HACCP, and HARPC.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex initiatives in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across internal teams, suppliers, and customers.
• Experience applying continuous improvement principles to solve operational challenges.
• High level of accountability, integrity, and a proactive mindset.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize and execute effectively.

Candidates must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship for a non-immigrant visa.

Benefits

• Top-notch medical coverage
• Comprehensive vision and dental plans
• 401k with match eligibility
• Additional benefits available