Manager, QA

About the role

The Site Quality Manager is responsible for planning, implementing and managing the Quality Assurance Program to ensure compliance with the BC quality management system (QMS), Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) standard requirements, and all customer and local regulatory requirements. The role contributes to and nurtures a culture of “Safety, Food safety first and Quality Always” across all teams and leaders on the site. The manager must act and speak up when deviations cannot be solved locally and continuously seeks improvements through lean principles and people‑capability development to achieve best‑in‑class performance.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and build capability within the Quality team to drive high performance across Quality, Food Safety, and Hygiene objectives.
• Ensure compliance with Food Safety and Quality standards by implementing, maintaining, and continuously improving site programs, procedures, and controls.
• Manage customer, certification, regulatory, and corporate audits and inspections, ensuring successful outcomes and compliance with all requirements.
• Drive root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) for customer complaints, audit findings, non‑conformities, and out‑of‑specification materials to prevent recurrence.
• Oversee the Food Safety Plan and Issue Management process, ensuring effective implementation, team training, and alignment with global guidelines.
• Collaborate with Operations, R&D, and Commercial teams to support new product launches, product transfers, and continuous quality improvements.
• Establish, document, and monitor sanitation, quality control, and laboratory standards, ensuring compliance and readiness of equipment and materials.
• Ensure timely quality and compliance decisions regarding product disposition, non‑conforming materials, and batch release approvals.
• Maintain and enhance the Document Management System (DMS), ensuring all controlled documents remain accurate, current, and effectively utilized.
• Develop and execute the site Quality strategy, including continuous improvement initiatives, budget planning, CAPEX investments, and Food Safety enhancement projects.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Food Science or equivalent (or engineering degree with 5‑10+ years in food quality assurance).
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in food safety, including formal HACCP training; PCQI is a plus.
• Formal training in Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) standards, preferably FSSC 22000.
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite, SAP systems, and manufacturing applications such as scheduling and MES.
• Strong knowledge of food safety systems, quality standards, and current regulatory requirements.
• Proven leadership and people‑management skills with the ability to develop high‑performing teams.
• Experience in laboratory operations, testing procedures, and statistical quality control tools.
• Knowledge of plant operations and cross‑functional manufacturing disciplines.
• Practical experience with Lean Manufacturing, TPM, and continuous‑improvement methodologies.
• Strong project‑management capabilities, including use of related tools and systems.
• Advanced analytical and problem‑solving skills focused on root‑cause analysis and sustainable solutions.
• Excellent communication, customer‑service, teamwork, and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, drive organizational change, and deliver results in a fast‑paced environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Workplace flexibility that supports a balanced environment.
• Culture that embraces diversity and inclusivity (#OneBC).
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth within a development‑focused organization.
• Contribution to sustainability initiatives through the “Forever Chocolate” mission, emphasizing prospering farmers, zero child labor, carbon‑ and forest‑positive goals, and 100 % sustainable ingredients.
• Strong commitment to Diversity & Inclusion, fostering an environment where individuals can be themselves, reach their full potential, and feel they belong.