HEAD OF QUALITY & Production

The Head of Quality & Production is responsible for managing all aspects of dairy production and quality functions, including regulatory compliance, production scheduling, and supplier quality oversight. This role ensures strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), FDA regulations, and internal quality standards while leading efforts to identify root causes of quality issues and deploy effective corrective actions. The candidate will drive initiatives for operational excellence such as optimizing material requirements planning (MRP), refining production efficiency, and leading cross-functional teams to achieve business goals. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential to mentor and develop the production and quality teams, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and continuous growth.
Responsibilities

Lead and manage the daily production and quality assurance operations to meet company standards and regulatory requirements.
Develop, implement, and oversee quality management systems (QMS) and food safety programs to ensure product consistency and safety.
Ensure compliance with industry regulations including FDA guidelines and GMP throughout all production stages.
Manage production planning, scheduling, and capacity planning to optimize resource utilization and meet delivery timelines.
Oversee supplier quality management processes to guarantee raw material quality aligns with company specifications.
Lead root cause analysis investigations for quality deviations and implement corrective and preventive actions.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives targeting productivity enhancements, waste reduction, and operational efficiencies.
Develop, train, and mentor a team of production and quality professionals to foster high performance and skill development.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including procurement, logistics, and maintenance to ensure seamless production flow.
Maintain and improve standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all production and quality activities.
Utilize ERP and MRP systems to monitor inventory, production schedules, and quality control workflows effectively.
Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for production efficiency, quality metrics, and team performance.
Promote a culture of safety, hygiene, and environmental responsibility within production and quality departments.
Ensure timely and accurate reporting of production and quality data to senior management.
Stay updated on industry trends, technological advancements, and changes in regulatory requirements affecting dairy production.