Quality Team Lead
- Kildare
- Permanent
- Full-time
Location: Kildare
Full Time / Permanent Role
Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5pmOptimize Recruitment are proud to be working with our client, a well-established food production business supplying high-quality products to both retail and foodservice sectors across domestic and international markets. With a strong focus on innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvement, they are currently seeking a Quality Team Lead to strengthen their Quality Department. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to food safety and quality initiatives in a fast-paced, high-care manufacturing environment.The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
- A third-level qualification (Diploma or higher) in Food Science or a related field.
- 4+ years experience in a similar quality or technical role in the FMCG or food manufacturing sector.
- A strong understanding of HACCP, BRC, and food legislation—HACCP certification is essential.
- Prior exposure to high-care manufacturing environments is advantageous.
- Experience in managing or leading a team is desirable.
- Lead Auditor training is a plus.
- Proficiency in MS Office and various quality/specification software systems.
- Excellent analytical, verbal, and written communication skills.
- Confidence in dealing with auditors, suppliers, and key customers.
- A proactive mindset with the ability to drive strategic improvements.
- Willingness to travel occasionally as part of supplier or customer engagement.
- Lead, mentor, and manage a team of quality control technicians on-site.
- Represent the quality function in internal meetings and decision-making forums.
- Influence site-wide decisions to ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards.
- Act as HACCP Team Lead or Co-Lead, ensuring the plan is regularly updated and challenged.
- Oversee internal and external audits (e.g., BRC, DAFM, major retailers).
- Maintain and update food safety systems and quality management documentation.
- Conduct root cause analyses and manage non-conformances effectively.
- Drive continuous improvement in product and process performance.
- Support and deliver training on key food safety and hygiene topics.
- Conduct supplier reviews and audits, maintaining supplier compliance and documentation.
- Excellent career development and progression opportunities.
- Company Pension Scheme
- Staff Support Initiative
- Long Service Programme
- Discounted coverage for health, life, travel, and vehicle insurance
- Wellness Programme
- Death in Service
- Onsite Parking
- Cycle to work Scheme