Quality & Regulatory Director

Quality and Regulatory Director (Overseas Employment- New Zealand)

The Quality and Regulatory Director is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and management of quality assurance and control processes to ensure the production of safe, high-quality pet food products that meet regulatory requirements and customer expectations. This role is critical in maintaining and enhancing the company's reputation for quality excellence and supporting its global expansion by ensuring compliance with international standards and regulations.

Additionally, the Quality Director will oversee Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) initiatives with support from an EHS Officer.

Job Description:

Quality Management
Develop, implement, and maintain a robust QMS in accordance with relevant standards (e.g., ISO 9001, FSSC 22000). · Ensure that QMS processes are documented, communicated, and followed throughout the organization. · Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure quality metrics. · Conduct regular reviews and updates of the QMS to reflect changes in regulations, standards, and best practices. · Lead internal and external audits to assess QMS effectiveness and compliance.

Regulatory

Compliance · Stay up-to-date with local and international regulatory compliance. · Act as the primary liaison with regulatory agencies, ensuring prompt compliance. · Guarantee alignment with relevant standards and facilitate the acquisition of certifications and approvals for global product distribution.

Supplier Quality

Management · Formulate and uphold supplier quality agreements stipulating precise quality expectations and requisites. · Conduct comprehensive risk assessments of suppliers and establish robust qualification and monitoring procedures. · Lead supplier audits, evaluations, and enhancement initiatives to ensure consistent quality standards.

Product Quality

Assurance · Establish quality specifications for raw materials, ingredients, and finished products. · Implement rigorous processes for incoming inspections, in-process controls, and finished product testing.

· Analyze and interpret quality data to identify trends, anomalies, and areas for enhancement.

Continuous Improvement

Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the organization, promoting employee engagement and participation. · Leverage data-driven methodologies such as Six Sigma and Lean to identify and prioritize improvement opportunities. · Implement corrective and preventive actions systematically to address underlying causes of quality issues and prevent recurrence.

Environmental, Health, and Safety Management

Collaborate closely with the EHS Officer to develop, implement, and maintain robust EHS management systems to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards. · Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards related to environmental protection, occupational health, and workplace safety. · Oversee the execution of comprehensive risk assessments and the implementation of stringent controls to mitigate EHS risks effectively. · Monitor and analyze EHS performance metrics, oversee the implementation of corrective actions promptly, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Leadership & People Management

Provide dynamic leadership to the Quality team, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement. · Set clear goals and expectations for team members, ensuring alignment with the company's quality objectives and priorities. · Coach, mentor, and develop team members to enhance their skills, knowledge, and capabilities in quality management. · Promote collaboration, communication, and teamwork within the Quality team and across other departments. · Effectively manage performance, providing constructive feedback, recognition, and motivation to inspire the team towards achieving quality goals.

Ad hoc

Any other related tasks as deemed important to the position

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in both quality management and regulatory within the food or pet food industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. ·
• Familiarity with New Zealand and international pet food regulations is an advantage.
• Willing to work in New Zealand