The FSQA Director, reporting to the Vice President of Manufacturing, will play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of our products in multiple facilities. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of food safety and quality assurance programs, including the development of strategies, implementation of systems and/or procedures and driving initiatives to uphold regulatory standards and enhance confidence in our brand.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and maintenance of compliance with various quality related programs and strategies; including but not limited to: CGMP, environmental monitoring, sanitation, allergen, HACCP, Preventive Controls, product recall, traceability, and internal audits
• Ensure adherence to all relevant food safety regulations and standards (e.g., FDA, USDA, HACCP) through effective policy implementation and proactive monitoring
• Implement and maintain robust quality management systems across all stages of production, from sourcing raw materials to product distribution, to ensure consistency and excellence in product quality
• Conduct thorough risk assessments to identify potential hazards and develop mitigation strategies
• Proactively address food safety risks and implement corrective actions as necessary
• Coordinate internal and external audits and inspections to evaluate compliance with international, federal, state or local regulatory requirements as well as, internal standards

1. Prepare for audits and ensure corrective actions are implemented promptly

• Develop and deliver comprehensive training programs for employees at all levels to promote awareness of food safety practices, quality standards, and regulatory requirements
• Collaborate with suppliers to establish and maintain quality assurance expectations and ensure compliance with specifications
• Monitor supplier performance and implement improvement initiatives as needed
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance food safety and quality assurance processes, optimize operational efficiencies, and drive organizational excellence
• Develop and implement crisis management protocols to effectively manage food safety incidents or product recalls, minimizing potential impact on consumers and the company's reputation
• Work with manufacturing locations to ensure each location is adhering to current and future regulations for food safety and standards.

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or related field; advanced degree preferred
• HACCP Certification required
• SQF Practitioner required
• PCQI Certification required
• Seafood HACCP Certification required
• Foreign Supplier Verification Program Certification Required
• FDA Food Labeling Certification required
• BPCS Thermal Processing Certification preferred
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in food safety and quality assurance, with at least 3 years in a leadership or managerial role
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, standards, and best practices
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and develop a team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
• Travel expectations up to 30% during the year.

Company Profile:

Lipari Foods is a regional full-line deli, bakery, packaging, and grocery distributor, headquartered in Warren, MI. We are a premier store distributor, delivering 37,000+ food and packaging products to 32 states and 14,000+ retail accounts. We operate several manufacturing facilities from a USDA fresh food plant to facilities specializing in jar goods, cheese and confections. We are in your communities providing food to your stores and feeding your families and neighbors. And we are growing. Fast. In fact, Lipari Foods was recently named by Crain’s Business as one of the fastest growing companies in Michigan, and we’re not just growing in Michigan

We are looking for talent with a can-do mindset, focused on growing a career, and interested in working on a diverse, dedicated team to create something greater collectively. Together, we are delivering more than great food to build a better tomorrow.

Lipari Foods LLC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.