The RETAIL QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICER is responsible for safeguarding food safety and quality standards across all retail stores. The role partners closely with Retail Operations to conduct audits, manage non-conformances, oversee compliance with HACCP and regulatory requirements, and act as a key liaison with authorities—ensuring the ongoing integrity of Spinneys food safety management system.
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate with the retail operations team to ensure high food safety standards are maintained in the stores.
- Conduct monthly, quarterly and bi-annual internal audits
- Support retail operations team during external audits and inspections.
- Review and approve Internal and external non-conformance reports (NCIR) for audits, complaints and lab failures.
- Conduct required trainings.
- Participate in the periodic review and update of SOP's.
- Investigate high priority complaints, accidents and incidents.
- Conduct regional management system meetings as required.
- Escalate and communicate regional Quality, Health, Safety and Environment (QHSE) concerns to operations team and Retail QA Manager.
- Act as the first point of contact for the relevant municipality and local authorities on QHSE aspects.
- Manage assigned portfolios including HACCP, lab sampling, withdrawals & recalls, pest control and equipment cleaning programs.
- Maintain product integrity documentation including end product specifications, label assessment, pack copies, ingredients matrix, ingredients and packaging materials approvals.
- Consolidate relevant regulatory authorities standard requirements.
- Support the QA Manager and Operations team in maintaining the integrity of the food safety management system.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field.
- Minimum of 2 years experience in a quality assurance role, preferably within food retail.
- In-depth understanding of food safety standards including HACCP.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and document management.
