Quality Assurance Manager

Purpose of the Job To lead and manage the quality systems that strives for first time right quality of all products manufactured by Heineken Beverages (HB) Distilleries (DiSA) plants. The Quality Assurance Manager will design and implement quality assurance solutions aligned with corporate governance frameworks to deliver high performance, capability building and reduced cost of poor quality to achieve the required business output in the most efficient and effective manner.

Key Responsibilities Lead quality assurance systems (e.g. ISO, FSSC, Quality at Source, IMS, etc.) and related activities across 4 DiSA plants through focussed leadership, collaboration and influencing. Responsible for the implementation of the HB Quality Strategy and Vision in the DiSA Cluster. Act as the link between the DiSA Cluster and the CoE’s (i.e. Quality, Intrinsics, Sensory & Trade Quality) as well as the wider HB Quality community.

Develop and drive a strong site “First Time Right” quality culture. Ensure compliance of all DiSA plants to HB governance requirements. Develop site procedures, standards and specifications for DiSA to ensure adherence to all quality standards applicable at the DiSA plants. Drive reduction of the cost of poor quality while increasing productivity. Manage and drive competency and capability programs for quality improvement.

Ensure accuracy and integrity of reported quality KPI’s. Lead high-priority quality problem solving and improvement initiatives. Manage supplier quality management programme for site. Manage the performance of QESH Specialist to ensure performance and a high level of support to the DiSA sites. Strategically review customer requirements and develop capabilities to respond accordingly.

Develop, motivate and support sites with the annual business plans/budgets for approval (including capex). Minimum Requirements Relevant Degree in Quality, Food Sciences, Microbiology, etc. At least 5 year’s relevant experience in a FMCG environment. Previous experience and management of globally recognised Quality Management Systems and Food Safety Management Systems.

Ability to effectively influence people at various levels in the organisation. Ability to perform well under pressure in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Experience in the alcoholic beverage industry (i.e. especially spirits and wines) will be highly advantageous. Excellent communication skills (written, verbal, presentations, etc.). Expert functional problem-solving capability and the facilitation of problem-solving processes.

Good planning and project management skills. Willingness to travel regularly between the DiSA sites in the Western Cape.