Manager - Quality Assurance - FMCG Sector

About Taali:

Taali is a "better for you" snacking company that aims to redefine the next generation of snacking. Founded by Aarti Kochhar Kaji and Aditya Kaji in 2018 in the USA, Taali expanded to India in 2021, capitalizing on the post-COVID shift in consumer preferences toward healthier snacks.

With a mission to make snacking a guilt-free experience, the company offers a diverse product portfolio, including Makhana, Protein Puffs, Roasted & Coated Peanuts, and Moong Dal, spread over 20 SKUs. Now available PAN India across Modern Trade, General Trade, and E-Commerce channels, Taali also exports its products to the USA, Canada, Qatar, and several other Gulf countries.

Recently named among the best emerging snack brands in India, Taali is committed to promoting a healthier lifestyle for snack enthusiasts.

For more details, kindly refer to www.taalifoods.in

Job Summary:

- The Head of Quality Assurance in an FMCG snack-based company is responsible for overseeing all quality assurance operations, ensuring that products meet the highest standards of safety, consistency, and consumer satisfaction.

- This role involves developing and maintaining quality management systems, leading quality improvement initiatives, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

- The position requires close collaboration with manufacturing, R&D, and supply chain teams to drive a culture of quality excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

Quality Management Systems (QMS):

- Develop, implement, and maintain robust Quality Management Systems (QMS) that comply with industry standards and regulations (e.g., ISO 22000, HACCP).

- Regularly review and update quality policies, procedures, and documentation to reflect current best practices.

Product Quality Assurance:

- Oversee the quality assurance process from raw material sourcing through to finished product, ensuring that all products meet the company's quality and safety standards.

- Conduct regular inspections and audits of production processes, facilities, and equipment to ensure compliance with QMS.

Food Safety & Compliance:

- Ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations and standards, including managing food safety risks and implementing necessary controls.

- Lead the preparation for and management of external audits, including those by regulatory bodies and certification agencies.

Supplier Quality Management:

- Work closely with the procurement team to ensure that all suppliers meet the company's quality requirements.

- Develop and maintain a supplier quality assurance program, including regular supplier audits and performance reviews.

Team Leadership & Development:

- Lead, mentor, and develop the quality assurance team, fostering a culture of quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

- Ensure that the team is equipped with the necessary skills, training, and resources to perform their roles effectively.

Customer Focus:

- Act as the main point of contact for quality-related customer inquiries and complaints, ensuring timely and effective resolution.

- Monitor customer feedback and implement improvements based on consumer insights and market trends.

Innovation & R&D Support:

- Collaborate with the R&D team to ensure that new products are developed with quality and safety as top priorities.

- Provide quality assurance input during product development stages, including shelf-life testing and packaging evaluations.

Reporting & Documentation:

- Prepare and present regular reports on quality performance, KPIs, and improvement initiatives to senior management.

- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all quality assurance activities, including audit findings, non-conformances, and corrective actions.

Qualifications Required:

- Education: Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Quality Management, Engineering, or a related field.

- A Master's degree or relevant certifications (e.g., ISO Lead Auditor, Six Sigma) is preferred.

Experience:

- Minimum of 5-8 years of experience in quality assurance within the FMCG sector, particularly in food and snack production.

- Prior leadership experience is required.

Skills:.

- In-depth knowledge of food safety standards and quality management systems.

- Strong leadership and team management abilities.

- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across departments.

- Proficiency in quality assurance tools and software.