Assistant Manager, Quality Assurance

Summarize / Overview of the objective of the role

• The Assistant Manager will be based at JB plant, responsible for both Plant QA operations and Group QA functions.
• Leading and managing all aspects of organizing and managing JB QA department (process quality, QMS, laboratory, Halal compliance, NPD project, supplier qualification) to ensure that quality of products comply with legal requirements and meet customers' expectations.
• Assist to develop the Management Systems / GFSI strategy and the management arrangements for key milestones, demonstrating solid progress against plan across all sites.
• Gate keeper for product process change management and Food Safety CCP/OPRP validation masterplan.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1) Quality Management Systems (QMS):

• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of QMS, FSMS & Halal Compliance.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure adherence to QMS/FSMS protocols.
• Develop and implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quality & food safety systems.
• Assist in the implementation of QMS across all manufacturing sites.

2) Stakeholder Interaction:

• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, customers, and regulatory bodies.
• Communicate quality-related issues and developments effectively to all relevant parties.
• Collaborate with production, R&D and supply chain teams to ensure quality requirements are integrated into all stages of product development and manufacturing.
• Provide input on product formulations, processes and changes to ensure quality standards are met.
• Support regulatory submissions and audits as required for domestic and export markets.

3) Material & Supplier Qualification:

• Make informed decisions regarding the qualification and acceptance of raw materials, packaging materials, and finished goods.
• Establish and maintain robust material qualification processes and criteria.
• Coordinate with suppliers to ensure materials meet specified quality standards.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and assessments of suppliers.
• Monitor and analyse supplier performance data, including quality, delivery and compliance.

4) Quality Assurance Leadership:

• Lead and mentor the quality assurance team, fostering a culture of quality and continuous improvement.
• Provide training and guidance on quality standards and best practices.
• Ensure the team is equipped with the necessary tools and resources to perform their duties effectively.
• Budgeting and resource allocation for quality-related activities.
• Define department/team members' annual performance target, lead team to perform, track and deliver annual KPI.

5) Continuous Improvement:

• Analyse quality data and trends to drive strategic decisions and improvements.
• Prepare and present quality reports to senior management.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost savings while maintaining product safety and quality.

6) Problem Solving and Root Cause Analysis:

• Investigate quality issues and non-conformances, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain effective problem-solving methodologies and tools.

7) Ad Hoc Tasks:

• Handle ad hoc tasks and projects as assigned by management or required by the business.
• Adapt to emerging needs and priorities providing support and flexibility to address various challenges and opportunities.

8) Food Safety Management System

• Report problem(s) with regards to the Food Safety Management System to any Food Safety Committee members.
• The duties listed are not exhaustive and may be varied from time to time as dictated by the changing needs of the Business. The postholder will be expected to undertake other duties as appropriate and as requested by his/her manager

9) Health, Safety, and Environmental

• To ensure safe working practices, health, safety, and environmental procedures are adhered to at all time at site.
• To ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations and standards, implementing appropriate measures to maintain a safe and healthy environment at workplace.

REQUIREMENTS/SKILLS:

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science / Food Technology or equivalent.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization.
• Experience with FSSC 22000, FDA, GACC, and other quality certifications is preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of working experience in QA, preferably in the FMCG industry. Proven experience as an Assistant Manager, QA.
• Thorough knowledge of methodologies of quality assurance and standards.
• Strong leadership, coaching and management skills, with experience leading cross-functional teams.
• Well-versed in English and Bahasa Malaysia.
• Ability to communicate in Mandarin is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and quality management software.
• SAP S/4HANA knowledge is an advantage.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:

• Analytical, well-organized, with good project management skills, strong stakeholder management, and multi-tasking ability.