Job description
Job Description
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Our client, a leading food manufacturing company, is seeking a Site Quality Lead to join their team at Site 2 – Cork Operations (Mitchelstown).
This is a key leadership role within the site management team, working closely with operations to ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality products and to uphold compliance with all food safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
The Cavan site specialises in the production of cooked and canned food products, operating under high-risk processes that require robust controls and rigorous food safety systems.
This position provides an excellent opportunity for an experienced quality professional with a strong understanding of high-risk food manufacturing, continuous improvement, and leadership in a regulated production environment.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Food Safety & Quality Management
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Lead and manage the Food Safety & Quality Management System (FSQMS) for the Cavan site.
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Oversee high-risk production processes and canning operations, ensuring strict adherence to food safety standards.
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Ensure full compliance with all regulatory and legislative requirements, liaising with Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine (DAFM) officials and external auditors.
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Act as Management Representative for Bord Bia PQAS and maintain BRC accreditation through continuous compliance and audit readiness.
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Lead HACCP implementation and maintenance as HACCP Team Leader.
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Manage laboratory operations, including product testing, microbiological analysis, and interpretation of results.
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Oversee sanitation and cleaning programs to maintain hygiene standards and regulatory compliance.
Quality Assurance & Continuous Improvement
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Manage Corrective & Preventative Actions (CAPA) and all non-conforming product investigations.
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Monitor raw material and stock controls, ensuring traceability and quality compliance.
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Measure and report adherence to customer specifications and internal quality KPIs.
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Lead customer complaint investigations, ensuring timely root-cause analysis and resolution.
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Support the implementation of continuous improvement initiatives (Lean Management) to enhance process efficiency and quality performance.
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Conduct internal audits and self-assessments, and support customer and third-party audits.
Operational Leadership
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Work closely with the Site Manager, Operations, and Group Technical teams to deliver production goals aligned with quality and safety standards.
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Manage a small technical and quality team, providing direction, support, and development opportunities.
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Coordinate with Maintenance, Sales, Admin, HRBP, H&S, and LEAN teams to maintain seamless operations.
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Support product and process development, ensuring new products meet all quality and safety requirements.
People & Compliance Management
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Oversee staff training and development, including induction, refresher training, and record keeping.
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Manage attendance, timekeeping, and performance reviews in conjunction with HR.
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Address grievance and disciplinary issues in line with company policy.
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Administer annual leave and manage probationary reviews for new employees.
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Promote a culture of health, safety, and environmental awareness, ensuring compliance with the Company Environmental Policy.
What Are We Looking For?
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Degree-qualified in Food Science, Microbiology, or a related discipline.
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Proven experience in high-risk food manufacturing, ideally including canning or thermal processing.
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Strong knowledge of BRCGS, Bord Bia PQAS, HACCP, and food safety legislation.
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Excellent leadership and people management skills with the ability to influence across functions.
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Strong communication, organisation, and problem-solving abilities.
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Experience in managing audits and liaising with regulatory bodies (e.g., DAFM, EPA).
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Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement practices.
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Hands-on, proactive approach with an interest in operations and supporting business performance.
What’s On Offer
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Competitive salary package, commensurate with experience.
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Opportunity to play a key leadership role in a high-performing food manufacturing site.
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Career progression within a growing group structure.
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Exposure to cross-functional collaboration within the Group Technical and Operations teams.
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Training and development opportunities to support professional growth.
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A culture that values excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
