Quality Assurance Manager

Job Description – Quality Assurance Manager Salary £50,000 – £55,000 per annum Contract Type Full-time, Permanent Role Overview The Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for leading all internal audit activities and supporting external audits across the site. This role ensures that operational processes, procedures, and quality standards are consistently implemented, maintained, and continuously improved. The position plays a key role in driving a strong quality culture, ensuring compliance with the site’s Quality Management System, and supporting all departments in achieving food safety, quality, and GMP standards. The role also contributes to continuous improvement initiatives across the manufacturing operation. Key Responsibilities (This list is not exhaustive and may evolve in line with business needs) Audit & Compliance • Lead and support all internal and external audits, ensuring smooth execution and timely closure of non-conformances • Investigate audit findings and implement corrective and preventative actions • Prepare for customer and certification audits, including pre-audit inspections • Maintain compliance with relevant standards and codes of practice • Conduct internal audits and gap analyses Quality Systems & Continuous Improvement • Maintain and develop quality management and reporting systems • Implement and monitor GMP standards and KPIs • Drive continuous improvement and quality culture across the site • Identify and escalate food safety risks Non-Conformance & Investigation • Lead investigations into complaints, failures, and deviations • Implement preventative solutions and monitor effectiveness • Ensure accurate recording and trending of non-conformances Team Leadership • Manage, coach, and develop the Quality team • Coordinate workload and ensure delivery of key objectives Laboratory & Testing • Oversee testing of raw materials, in-process, and finished products • Ensure compliance with validated methods and SOPs • Review laboratory data and maintain accurate records Systems & Reporting • Produce reports and trend analyses on quality metrics • Maintain document control systems • Manage product status within internal systems (e.g. hold, quarantine, rework) Equipment & Resources • Oversee calibration and maintenance of equipment • Coordinate external service providers • Manage laboratory consumables and stock General • Work cross-functionally to support operational goals • Carry out additional duties aligned with the role Person Specification Essential • 5+ years’ experience in food manufacturing • Experience in a senior QA or supervisory role • Internal auditing qualification • Level 3 Food Safety & HACCP • Strong communication and influencing skills • Organised, proactive, and self-motivated • IT literate Desirable • Degree in Food Science or related field • Experience with retailer standards or certification schemes