We currently have the above position available at our flexible packaging facility and wish to invite all suitably qualified applicants to submit their details for our consideration.

The incumbent, reporting to the Continuous Improvement Manager will be responsible for leading quality assurance and laboratory operations to ensure consistent compliance with customer, regulatory, and certification requirements.

Key responsibilities:

1. Quality and Laboratory Management
   • Lead and manage QA laboratory operations in line with approved sampling plans, operating procedures, test methods, and frequencies.
   • Ensure compliance with ISO 17025, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), ISO 9001, BRCGS, and SEDEX requirements.
   • Ensure all quality specifications, SOPs, and test methods are current and available at the point of use.
   • Oversee calibration and verification of laboratory and production testing equipment in accordance with the calibration programme.
   • Maintain laboratory housekeeping, visual management, and safety standards.
   • Ensure availability, suitability, and readiness of laboratory equipment, tools, and consumables.
   • Review laboratory records daily and identify deviations, trends, and improvement opportunities.
   • Ensure accurate and timely issue of Certificates of Analysis (COAs).
   • Conduct internal audits and support external audits related to laboratory, health and safety, product safety and quality systems.

2. Non-Conformance & CAPA Management
   • Manage internal, customer, supplier, and certification-related non-conformances.
   • Manage and action inspection and quarantine locations within established time frames.
   • Lead root cause analysis and ensure effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) are implemented and closed within defined timelines.
   • Identify recurring non-conformances and drive systemic improvements.
   • Support operations with investigations and participate in operational and quality review meetings.
   • Ensure shopfloor awareness of quality requirements and product performance standards.

1. Trial & Product Development Support

• Participate in product development and trial planning meetings.
• Ensure trials are conducted in accordance with approved protocols and quality requirements.
• Verify trial data prior to specification finalisation.
• Monitor trials throughout the full trial lifecycle across all process stages.
• Issue trial releases, Certificates of Analysis, final product specifications, and Declarations of Compliance.

4. Operational & Continuous Improvement Support
   • Collaborate with manufacturing and continuous improvement teams to improve product performance and reduce waste.
   • Conduct ad hoc testing and investigations to verify ongoing compliance with quality and product safety requirements.
   • Support continuous improvement initiatives using data-driven quality insights.

To be considered for this position, you will need to meet the following requirements:

• Grade 12
• Diploma or Degree in Packaging or Chemistry or Chemical Engineering [Advantageous]
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a manufacturing quality & laboratory environment.
• Demonstrate experience with ISO 9001, FSSC 22000, BRCGS, 17025, external audits and product development
• Experience in flexible packaging, plastics or FMCG manufacturing [Advantageous]
• Proven experience in managing QA laboratories & QA teams.
• Formal training in root cause analysis, CAPA & internal auditing [Advantageous]