Sr Manager, QFS COE, Systems, Standards and Certifications

Leads the governance, deployment, and continuous improvement of Quality & Food Safety (QFS) systems, standards, certification programs, and QFS artwork approval processes. Connects regional business needs with global QFS teams, ensures internal and external requirements are translated into effective operating practices, and enables consistent execution across manufacturing plants, Quality in Design, sourcing, innovation, and route-to-market activities. Manages a team of managers and specialists and serves as the senior QFS point of contact for systems, standards, third-party certifications, and QFS aspects of artwork and labeling.

Responsibilities

• Act as the primary regional point of contact for QFS systems and standards, partnering with global Food Safety, Quality, and standards teams.
• Provide US and Canada expertise, business input, and operational insight to support the design and ongoing improvement of QFS systems and standards.
• Serve as the accountable custodian and gatekeeper for implementation of applicable Danone QFS Standards and Requirements across categories and business activities.
• Provide governance for the deployment of new and existing QFS systems and standards across manufacturing plants, Quality in Design, sourcing, and route-to-market activities.
• Develop business impact assessments, implementation plans, resource requirements, and clear recommendations for new or revised systems and standards.
• Coordinate communication, education, and training so category and site teams can effectively cascade, implement, and sustain requirements.
• Promote standardization, simplify ways of working, and identify synergies through a continuous improvement mindset.
• Drive execution of Culture of Quality roadmap in partnership with Global, regional, and local teams.
• Lead QFS third-party certification programs and qualification processes for products and manufacturing locations in the United States and Canada.
• Serve as the key QFS decision point for certification matters and represent the company with certifying bodies, as appropriate.
• Ensure certification requirements are translated into effective processes, documentation, testing, verification, and records.
• Lead material or finished-product compliance activities required by certification programs, including analysis and reporting of results in partnership with Regulatory and manufacturing teams.
• Act as a subject matter expert and primary resource for manufacturing plants on certification requirements and related QFS expectations.
• Maintain awareness of relevant regulatory and certifying-agency requirements that affect assigned certification, labeling, and artwork responsibilities.
• Lead the QFS graphic and artwork approval process across the manufacturing network and product portfolio in the United States and Canada.
• Represent QFS on certification, artwork, and labeling projects, including new product launches, label changes, plant trials, and formulation or material changes.
• Ensure QFS review and approval activities meet internal requirements and applicable external obligations.
• Provide education and technical guidance to plants and cross-functional partners on label control, graphic standards, certifications, and product coding requirements.
• Partner with Regulatory and other technical functions on matters including nutrition facts panels, allergen labeling, certification claims, and other labeling requirements within the role scope.
• Build strong relationships, collaborate, and strengthen cross-functional ways of working to deliver products that meet Danone requirements.
• Develop partnerships with global functional peers and participate in cross-business initiatives where applicable.
• Lead change, resolve complex issues, and align stakeholders around practical, compliant, and timely solutions.
• Enable excellence in execution by connecting policy and standards with the realities of plant, innovation, commercialization, and supply operations.
• Directly manage and lead a team of managers and specialists responsible for QFS systems, standards, certifications, and artwork or labeling processes.
• Set clear priorities, accountabilities, and performance expectations for the team.
• Build capability through coaching, developmental plans, feedback, and succession planning.
• Develop, manage, and continuously improve key performance indicators for the function.
• Ensure robust documentation, record keeping, knowledge management, and continuity of critical processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Science, Food Science, Food Technology, or a related technical discipline.
• At least 7 years of combined experience in quality, food safety, ingredients, food packaging, manufacturing processes, or related technical functions.
• Advanced understanding of Quality & Food Safety systems and current food regulations applicable to the role scope.
• Experience with third-party certification programs and auditing; SQF, FSSC, or another GFSI-recognized scheme qualification is preferred.
• Solid understanding of plant production systems, manufacturing equipment, Good Manufacturing Practices, sanitation, and related operational controls.
• Demonstrated experience driving corrective action, process improvement, and sustainable change across functions or sites.
• Experience leading people, including managers or technical specialists, and building team capability.
• Located in White Plains, NY (WP) or Louisville, KY (LSVL).
• Travel 25%.

Skills

• Strong ownership and visible demonstration of Danone behaviors and values.
• Passion for standardization, simplification, and continuous improvement.
• Strong leadership courage, sound judgment, and the ability to make and communicate clear decisions.
• Excellent collaboration and influencing skills across functions, levels, sites, and geographies.
• Ability to manage deadlines and multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
• Facts- and data-driven approach with strong analytical, synthesis, and problem-solving capability.
• Excellent written, verbal, presentation, documentation, and record-keeping skills.
• Adaptable, self-directed, and results-oriented, with the ability to work independently and handle confidential information.
• Ability to learn and use new systems, tools, and programs quickly.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

This role is primarily performed in a standard office setting and requires the ability to remain in a stationary position (e.g., seated or standing) for extended periods. The employee may be exposed to moderate noise levels from office equipment and conversations. Hybrid or remote work arrangements may apply, which can introduce variability in work settings.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $111,000.00 – $159,000.00 USD. The exact salary offered will depend on several factors, including the candidate’s relevant experience, geographic location, internal equity, and market conditions. Additionally offers a performance-based bonus.

Schedule

This role is considered a “hybrid” position that allows for flexible work, meaning it is a role where collaboration with key stakeholders in Danone Hubs occurs. While you may have the option to work from home on a schedule as agreed to with your supervisor, you are also expected to regularly report to your assigned office location at least 3 days per week.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage
• 401k Plan
• Wellness Program
• Life Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible Time Off
• Paid Parental Bonding Leave (18 weeks)
• Fitness discounts
• Employee discount programs
• Voluntary perks
• Caretaker benefits
• Fertility, surrogacy, adoption benefits
• Pet insurance