Why would I want this job?
As a key member of the Operational Leadership Team, the Food Safety Leader will partner with Store Leadership to develop and execute programs that identify, manage, and prevent risks to our customers and associates. The Food Safety Leader will be responsible for developing, implementing, and directing a comprehensive program that ensures a safe and healthy environment for all associates and customers. This program will be in accordance with the company’s compliance plan, as well as Federal, State, and Local laws and regulations. Additionally, they will provide training and guidance to staff and stakeholders on food safety policies, and communicate and collaborate with internal and external parties on food safety.
This role is accountable for managing a team of food safety professionals and programs, which provide food safety training, audit oversight, and program compliance. The Food Safety Leader will act as a liaison with management to ensure that food safety priorities are being met, and provide technical assistance to management teams at stores. Overall, the Food Safety Leader will play a critical role in ensuring the food safety and well-being of everyone involved in the business. They will be expected to uphold the organization’s purpose of caring deeply about people and helping them eat well and be happy.
What would I be doing?
● Knowledge of Legal Requirements: Ability to identify legal requirements and governmental reporting regulations affecting quality assurance functions (e.g., Federal, State, etc.), as qualified.
● Team Leadership and Representation: Lead a team of individuals representing the company to oversee and manage the overall company values and food safety program.
● Policy and Program Development: Develop and oversee policies and programs that ensure compliance with industry regulations and minimize food safety issues.
● Trend Analysis and Root Cause Identification: Analyze trends and identify root cause issues to clearly define opportunities for improvement and risk mitigation associated with food safety.
● Investigations and Corrective Actions: Perform follow-up on food safety complaints and ensure that corrective actions are taken.
● Audit and Certification Management: Manage food safety audits and certifications, including those by the FDA and USDA, to ensure compliance with regulations.
● Hazard Evaluation: Evaluate food safety hazards within the organization.
● Risk Analysis and Management: Utilize strong analytical skills to identify and assess potential risks, and develop effective risk management strategies. This includes challenging assumptions and conventional thinking, using data and evidence to inform decision-making.
● Contingency Planning: Maintain contingency plans in accordance with government regulations and insurance company requirements.
● Employee Engagement: Seek out support and buy-in for innovative and cost-effective employee relations programs to increase program success.
What would make me qualified?
Experience and Skills Required:
● Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in food safety management or related field
● Proven track record in implementing and maintaining food safety programs and compliance
● Experience working with regulatory agencies and understanding of relevant food safety laws and regulations
● Previous management or supervisory experience in a food production or processing environment
● Hands-on experience with Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) and other food safety management systems
● Strong knowledge of food safety standards, including FDA, USDA, and GFSI guidelines
● Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills to identify and mitigate food safety risks
● Ability to lead and motivate a team, with strong interpersonal and communication skills
● Detail-oriented with strong organizational and project management abilities
● Proficiency in conducting food safety audits and inspections
● Capable of developing and delivering food safety training programs
● Adept at crisis management and handling food safety incidents effectively
● Proficient in using food safety software and reporting tools
● Prior experience in retail is preferred.
● Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, to meet store needs.
Core Competencies of the Role:
● Managing Others: Have the ability to support their team in achieving their goals and objectives. This includes providing guidance and resources as needed, and ensuring that their team has the necessary training and tools to succeed.
● Ensures Accountability: Accountable for the performance of their team and for ensuring that all food safety and risk management activities are conducted in accordance with established policies and procedures.
● Collaborating: Able to collaborate effectively with other departments and stakeholders, including Operations, Quality Assurance, and Regulatory Affairs. This includes working closely with these groups to identify and address potential risks and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards.
● Organization: Must have strong organizational skills, able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively. This includes developing and implementing prioritization strategies, and ensuring that all team members are aligned with the overall goals and objectives of the organization.
● Communication: Ability to communicate to large or small groups to champion and lead a culture of safety across many levels of the organization to create buy in and engagement for programs and compliance
● Listening: Should be an active listener, able to understand the needs and concerns of their team and other stakeholders. This includes soliciting feedback and input, and being responsive to questions and concerns.
● Presentation skills: Must possess excellent presentation skills, able to create and deliver new safety programs utilizing compliant information, data analytics, and financial analysis