Food Safety and QA Specialist

Reporting to the Vice President of Food Safety & Quality Assurance for our subsidiary, Slade Gorton, the Regulatory and QA Specialist is responsible for ensuring all elements of product labeling are accurate and comply with applicable government regulations, and all product specifications and related data and documents are maintained up-to-date in our systems and on customers’ platforms.

In addition to being the subject matter expert in regulatory affairs, the ideal candidate must have a strong aptitude for technology, a keen eye for detail and accuracy, efficient workflow management skills and a collaborative and professional demeanor. To excel in this role, problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively with both internal and external partners (suppliers and customers) are essential. This role will also act as a back-up for QA Manager in product inspection and supplier documentation management.

Objectives

• Continuously strive for the improvement of Company product specifications, regulatory compliance, data and data systems and processes in support of the Company’s strategic imperatives of creating a world class supply chain.
• Proactively collaborate as a solution-focused subject matter expert for the cross-functional team to ensure that products and projects are regulatory compliant, competitively positioned, and that information and data sharing is accurate and timely.
• Ensure customers’ documentation needs are completed timely and regularly. Cross-trained as a back-up for QA Manager in product inspection and supplier documentation management.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all incoming supplier product information, create and maintain up-to-date specifications that are aligned with customers’ expectations, approve item setup requests, and accurately disseminate data to downstream systems (ERP, GDSN, customer specification platform, etc.)
• Evaluate product specifications, formulations, ingredient statements, nutritional facts tables, labeling and claims, artworks, and promotional materials for new and existing products against the appropriate regulations, guidelines, and internal labeling standards. Resolve any specification differences with stakeholders. (Suppliers, Procurement, Sales, Marketing)
• Maintain customer platforms to ensure required supplier and product documents are kept current.
• Remain current on all applicable regulations and ensure regulatory changes are communicated to the key stakeholders and implemented timely. Provide support and guidance on regulatory topics as needed.
• Implement processes, procedures, and workflow for effective product creation and maintenance in GDSN and customer’s portals. Work with Sales to ensure marketing materials and product photos are kept current
• Work collaboratively with key customers to ensure adherence to their evolving data requirements and help communicate their needs to various business leaders within the Company.
• Cross-trained in seafood product inspection and documentation management, and be back-up to the QA Manager.
• Other duties as directed

Key Skills needed for success

• Demonstrated solid knowledge of regulatory (theory and practice) along with good understanding of food supply chain and manufacturing processes
• An analytical mindset with the ability to effectively decipher and organize large amounts of data.Ability to communicate complex issues clearly and in nontechnical terms
• Strong organizational skills that reflect ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly with problem-solving, critical thinking capabilities, and attention to details
• Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively and proactively work across functions and enable the development of relationships with key stakeholders
• Highly resourceful team-player, with the ability to be effective independently and seek assistance and direction periodically on complex issues
• Self-starter, drive for results with strong work ethic and integrity
• Demonstrated ability to achieve high performance goals and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• A forward thinker, who actively seeks opportunities and proposes solutions

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in food science, nutrition, or related field
• A minimum of 3 years direct experience in regulatory affairs with excellent knowledge in US food labeling regulations
• Food manufacturing and/or supply chain experience is a must
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word, and Power Point)
• Experiences with GDSN, Nutritional Calculator (e.g. Genesis), TraceGains, PLM, PIM, are preferred
• Ability to handle raw seafood in refrigerated environment
• Some travel may be required