Quality Assurance Lead - County Cavan

Quality Assurance Lead - County Cavan

This is a key leadership role, forming part of the site management team and working closely with operations to deliver production requirements with a focus on food safety, quality, and compliance.

The site specialises in the production of cooked food products, much of which are canned, and operates two high-risk processes that require robust control systems and technical oversight.

The successful candidate will bring strong experience in high-risk food manufacturing, a relevant science-based qualification, and the ability to balance quality leadership with a commercial understanding of production operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Food Safety & Quality Management
• Oversee and continuously improve the site’s Food Safety and Quality Management System.
• Manage high-risk food production and canning operations, ensuring compliance with all relevant standards and legislation.
• Lead the implementation and maintenance of HACCP and hygiene systems (HACCP Team Leader).
• Maintain compliance with DAFF regulations and liaise with relevant officials and auditors.
• Ensure adherence to customer specifications and manage non-conforming product processes.
• Oversee laboratory testing, sanitation, and cleaning activities.
• Conduct internal audits and support customer and third-party audits (BRC, Bord Bia PQAS).
• Act as management representative for Bord Bia PQAS accreditation.

Quality Improvement & Process Control

• Drive corrective and preventative action programs to resolve quality issues.
• Implement user-friendly control procedures to embed accountability across teams.
• Lead continuous improvement activities and participate in Lean/CI initiatives.
• Develop and support product and process improvements in collaboration with R&D and production.
• Analyse and report on quality performance metrics to site and group management.

Operations & Staff Management

• Work collaboratively with the Site Manager and Group Technical Manager to align quality goals with operational needs.
• Support production teams in achieving yield, quality, and specification targets.
• Coordinate and supervise the technical team and ensure adequate staffing and training.
• Manage timekeeping, attendance, and disciplinary issues in line with company policy.
• Support induction, training, and ongoing development of site personnel.
• Ensure a proactive approach to health and safety across all site activities.
• Liaise with maintenance and contractors to maintain quality standards and operational efficiency.

External Liaison & Compliance

• Maintain effective relationships with customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
• Lead customer complaint investigations and implement effective corrective measures.
• Represent the site during inspections and audits from external agencies such as DAFF and the EPA.

Requirements

• Third-level qualification in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in a similar technical or quality management role within a high-risk food manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of HACCP, BRC, and Bord Bia PQAS standards.
• Excellent knowledge of food safety legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams and develop staff.
• Strong problem-solving, organisational, and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience engaging with auditors, customers, and government bodies.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and quality management systems.

Key Relationships

• Site Operations Manager
• Maintenance Team
• Group Technical Manager
• Sales Department
• HR Business Partner
• Lean / Continuous Improvement Team
• Health & Safety Officer
• Department of Agriculture and external regulatory bodies
• Contractors and suppliers