Manager – Cold Storgae Compliance (Audit)

The Audit & Compliance Manager will oversee the planning, execution, and management of internal audits, social compliance audits, and third-party certification audits across all Venus Pakistan operations, with a strong emphasis on meeting McDonald's operational standards. This role ensures adherence to international audit frameworks such as SMETA, SEDEX, SA8000, and BSCI, while fostering effective collaboration with external auditors and certification bodies. The manager will play a critical role in maintaining compliance, driving continuous improvement, and supporting McDonald's supplier requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Audit Management & Execution:
Plan, schedule, and conduct comprehensive internal audits across Venus Pakistan’s facilities in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Lead preparations for McDonald's corporate audits, supplier audits, and quality inspections. Coordinate SMETA 4-pillar audits and manage SEDEX platform registrations, updates, and audit scheduling. Oversee social compliance audits covering labor practices, health and safety, environmental standards, and operational audits for logistics, manufacturing, and hospitality divisions. Prepare detailed audit reports including findings, corrective actions, and timelines, and track closure of Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) and Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs).

Compliance & Standards Management:
Ensure continuous compliance with international standards such as SMETA (Labor, Health & Safety, Environment, Business Ethics), SEDEX platform management, SA8000, BSCI, and relevant ISO standards (ISO 9001, ISO 22000, ISO 45001). Maintain adherence to McDonald's Supplier Code of Conduct and local labor laws including EOBI and ESSI. Monitor regulatory changes and update company policies accordingly. Maintain all compliance documentation, certifications, and licenses.

McDonald's Specific Requirements:
Act as the primary liaison for McDonald's Pakistan audit teams. Ensure compliance with McDonald's Standards of Business Conduct and coordinate McDonald's QSC (Quality, Service, Cleanliness) audits. Manage supplier qualification and re-certification processes, implement McDonald's safety, hygiene, and operational standards, and prepare for both announced and unannounced audits.

Risk Management & Process Improvement:
Identify compliance risks and develop mitigation strategies. Recommend and implement process improvements based on audit outcomes. Conduct gap analyses and vulnerability assessments. Develop and deliver compliance training programs for staff and management. Establish internal controls and monitoring systems.

Documentation & Reporting:
Maintain comprehensive audit files, evidence, and corrective action tracking. Prepare monthly and quarterly compliance reports for senior management. Update compliance manuals, SOPs, and work instructions. Manage document control systems and generate KPIs for compliance performance.

Stakeholder Management:
Liaise with external auditors, certification bodies, and regulatory authorities. Coordinate with HR, Operations, and Finance on compliance matters. Communicate audit findings to department heads and maintain strong relationships with McDonald's compliance teams. Represent the company during client audits and regulatory inspections.

Required Qualifications

Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Quality Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.

Experience:
5-7 years of audit and compliance experience within manufacturing, FMCG, or hospitality sectors. Proven expertise in conducting SMETA and SEDEX audits is mandatory. Strong background in social compliance audits such as SA8000 and BSCI. Experience with international brands or Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) chains is highly preferred. Prior experience with McDonald's supplier audits and managing third-party certification audits (ISO, HACCP) is a significant advantage.

Technical Skills:
In-depth knowledge of SMETA 4-Pillar audit protocols and proficiency with the SEDEX platform (registration, SAQ completion, audit management). Familiarity with social compliance standards including SA8000, BSCI, and ETI Base Code. Understanding of ISO standards (ISO 9001, ISO 22000, ISO 45001) and Pakistan labor laws including EOBI and ESSI. Strong grasp of food safety and hygiene standards such as HACCP and GMP. Proficient in MS Office and audit management software, with experience in document management and quality systems.

Competencies:
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Excellent report writing and documentation skills with high attention to detail. Ability to work independently and manage multiple audits simultaneously. Effective interpersonal and communication skills in English and Urdu. Capacity to handle pressure and meet tight deadlines. High ethical standards and integrity. Willingness to travel frequently between company locations.

Job Type: Full-time
Salary Range: Rs80,000 - Rs150,000 per month
Work Location: On-site at company facilities