We are seeking an experienced and strategic Quality Assurance Division Head to lead and manage the quality assurance and control functions for our flower farm operations in Awash. The role involves developing, implementing, and overseeing all quality assurance policies, procedures, and systems to ensure our agricultural products meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. You will lead a team of QA professionals, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborate with production, harvest, and post-harvest teams to embed a culture of quality throughout the organization.
Responsibilities
- • Develop, implement, and maintain the farm's Quality Management System (QMS) in line with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
- • Lead and manage the Quality Assurance team, including hiring, training, and performance management.
- • Establish and monitor quality control parameters for all stages of production, from planting and cultivation to harvesting, processing, and packaging.
- • Oversee the inspection of raw materials, seeds, fertilizers, and agrochemicals to ensure they meet required specifications.
- • Conduct regular audits, risk assessments, and root cause analyses to identify and mitigate quality risks.
- • Manage product testing, sampling, and analysis (e.g., for pesticide residues, microbial contamination, nutritional content).
- • Ensure compliance with local and international food safety, health, and environmental regulations .
- • Maintain accurate documentation, records, and reports for all quality assurance activities.
- • Investigate customer complaints and non-conformance issues, implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
- • Train and mentor staff on quality standards, hygiene, and safety protocols.
- • Collaborate with external auditors, certification bodies, and regulatory agencies.
Must Have
- • Education: MSc or BSc in Agricultural Science, textile or industrial engineering, Food Science, Plant Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field.
- • Experience: Minimum of 5–7 years in a quality assurance role within the agricultural, food processing, or farming industry, textile industries, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or managerial capacity.
Nice to have
- o Strong knowledge of QMS, HACCP, GLOBALG.A.P., and ISO standards.
- o Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
- o Proficiency in data analysis, report writing, and documentation.
- o Ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure.
- o Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
- o Familiarity with farm-to-fork traceability and sustainability practices.