Quality Manager - FMCG - Contractual (8-12 yrs)

Quality Manager/ MNC FMCG/ Chennai/ Fixed term contract role / consultant

Role Purpose:

To lead and manage quality systems and processes across the manufacturing unit(s) to ensure products meet internal standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations. The role ensures continuous improvement in product quality, processes, and supplier quality systems to uphold brand trust and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

Quality Management Systems:

- Implement and sustain Quality Management Systems (QMS) aligned with ISO, FSSC 22000, HACCP, GMP, and other relevant certifications.

- Ensure compliance with national and international food safety and quality standards.

- Lead internal and external audits; drive closure of non-conformances.

Product Quality Assurance:

- Establish and maintain quality specifications for raw materials, packaging, in-process, and finished goods.

- Monitor product quality parameters and lead corrective actions on deviations.

- Conduct root cause analysis and lead CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Action) implementation.

Supplier Quality Management:

- Develop supplier quality assurance processes and drive supplier audits and evaluations.

- Ensure timely resolution of supplier quality issues and drive continuous improvement.

Laboratory & Testing:

- Supervise in-house testing labs for physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory analysis.

- Ensure validation and calibration of laboratory equipment and methods.

Cross-functional Collaboration:

- Partner with Production, R&D, Procurement, and other functions to drive quality improvements.

- Provide technical support to manufacturing teams on process control and quality issues.

Regulatory Compliance:

- Ensure compliance with FSSAI, Legal Metrology, BIS, FDA, and other applicable bodies.

- Keep abreast of changes in regulatory requirements and update internal policies accordingly.

Training & Development:

- Drive quality awareness programs for plant and supplier teams.

- Train teams on food safety, quality standards, and hygiene protocols.

Continuous Improvement & Cost Optimization:

- Lead initiatives for product quality enhancement, yield improvement, and cost-saving through quality-related projects.

Key Skills & Competencies:

- In-depth knowledge of quality systems and food safety standards (FSSAI, HACCP, ISO 22000, FSSC 22000).

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills (e.g., 5 Why, RCA, FMEA, Six Sigma tools).

- Excellent knowledge of lab testing protocols and regulatory requirements.

- Proficient in MS Office, SAP/QMS software (preferred).

- Strong leadership, influencing, and collaboration skills.

Qualification & Experience:

- B.Tech/M.Tech in Food Technology, Dairy Technology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or related field.

- Minimum 8 to 12 years of relevant experience in Quality Assurance/Control in FMCG (preferably food, beverage, or personal care).

- Experience in handling audits, certifications, and team management.

Preferred Certifications:

- HACCP, FSSC 22000, ISO 9001, Lead Auditor (Preferred).