Senior Director, Food Safety & Quality (FSQ)

Essential Functions

• Develop and execute the company’s Food Safety & Quality strategy aligned with business objectives
• Serve as the enterprise leader for FSQ across all manufacturing facilities and distribution networks
• Build and promote a strong food safety and quality culture across the organization
• Oversee implementation and continuous improvement of FSQ systems, including HACCP, HARPC, GMPs, SSOPs, and environmental monitoring programs
• Ensure 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 actions
• Ensure compliance with all applicable U.S. and international regulations, including FDA (FSMA), USDA, and state/local requirements
• Serve as the primary liaison with regulatory agencies during inspections and inquiries
• Identify, assess, and mitigate food safety and quality risks across the supply chain
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action processes for quality and food safety incidents
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using data analytics and industry best practices
• Guide the organization in evaluating and implementing new strategies, technologies, and equipment to enhance food safety and data collection
• Partner with Commercial and R&D teams to support customer requirements, audits, and new product development
• Ensure timely and effective response to customer complaints and quality issues
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing FSQ team across multiple locations
• Establish clear performance expectations and promote cross-functional collaboration

Qualifications

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field required; Master’s preferred. 12–15+ years of progressive experience in food safety and quality within the food manufacturing industry. Experience leading multi-site or global FSQ operations. Experience in food ingredients, CPG, or industrial food manufacturing environments preferred.
• Technical Skills: Strong 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 management. PCQI certification required or ability to obtain.
• Leadership Competencies: Proven ability to lead through influence and drive organizational change. Strong communication skills with the ability to engage senior leadership and external stakeholders. Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead cross-functional initiatives.