Deputy Quality Assurance Manager

Deputy Quality Assurance Manager

• Annual Salary: -38,000 - -42,000
• Location: Sunderland
• Job Type: Full-time

Join our team as a Deputy Quality Assurance Manager and play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing our Food Safety & Quality Management Systems. You will work closely with the QA Manager and operational teams to ensure compliance, audit readiness, and best practice across our food manufacturing site.

Day-to-day of the role:

• Support the management and coordination of the Food Safety & Quality Management System (FSQMS).
• Coordinate and support internal audits and assist with external audits, including BRCGS and Halal certifications.
• Manage and review HACCP plans, attend HACCP meetings, and support related activities.
• Assist in the investigation of internal incidents, non-conformances, and customer complaints.
• Support microbiological and chemical testing, environmental swabbing, product sampling, and results review.
• Aid in managing traceability, recall, and mass balance exercises.
• Provide day-to-day support, coaching, and development to QA Coordinators and QA technicians.
• Collaborate with QC, Hygiene, and Operations teams to ensure quality and safety standards.
• Assist in managing the Pest Control System and Waste Management.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives across food safety, quality, and compliance.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Level 3 HACCP Qualification (minimum).
• Level 3 Food Safety in Manufacturing.
• Internal Auditor Training (BRCGS or equivalent).
• Experience supporting BRCGS audits, investigations, and corrective actions.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Experience supervising others, with strong people skills and a supportive, coaching approach.
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with great attention to detail.

Benefits:

• Employee/Employer Pension Scheme.
• Annual Leave of 28 days per annum (pro rata).
• Non-contractual group life insurance cover.
• Access to 24/7 GP support and Employee Assistance Program.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Employee Reward Platform.