Senior Quality Assurance Manager

Join us and be part of our transformation

Upper Crust is one of Canada's leading industrial bakeries. Our complexity of business and production combined with product innovation has earned us some of the top customers in Canada.

Our talented and motivated Quality Assurance team seeks an additional team member as the Senior Quality Assurance (Internal Auditor) Manager. This team, in partnership with all the Leadership, is committed to the transformation of our business. Be part of the team that takes us across the finish line.

Job Summary:

The Senior Quality Assurance (Internal Auditor) Manager for the bakery is responsible for overseeing aspects of quality control, food safety, and regulatory compliance within the bakery production facility. This role ensures that all products meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and consistency while adhering to local, state, and federal regulations. The Manager will lead a team of QA professionals, develop, and implement quality assurance programs, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement in production processes.

Key Responsibilities:

Quality Assurance Leadership:

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive quality assurance programs and policies to ensure product consistency and safety.
• Lead and mentor a team of QA managers, supervisors, technicians, and specialists.
• Foster a culture of quality and food safety throughout the organization.

Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal food safety regulations (e.g., FDA, CFIA, FSMA, HACCP, GMP).
• Stay updated on industry regulations and standards and implement necessary changes to maintain compliance.
• Serve as the lead in regulatory inspections and audits.

Food Safety Management:

• Oversee the maintenance of food safety programs, including HACCP, allergen control, and sanitation.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and implement corrective actions to mitigate potential hazards.
• Monitor and enforce Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) across the facility.

Product Quality Control:

• Establish and monitor quality standards for raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods.
• Conduct regular product testing and inspections to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Investigate and resolve customer complaints related to product quality.

Process Improvement:

• Collaborate with production, R&D, maintenance, and supply chain teams to identify and implement process improvements.
• Analyze quality metrics and trends to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action plans for quality-related issues.

Training and Development:

• Develop and deliver training programs on quality assurance, food safety, and GMP for all employees.
• Ensure all staff are knowledgeable about and adhere to quality protocols.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of quality assurance activities, including audits, inspections, and testing results.
• Prepare and present quality performance reports to senior management.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, and/or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in quality assurance within the food manufacturing industry, bakery or baked goods environment is an asset.
• Proven experience in managing QA teams and implementing food quality programs.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP, BRC/FSSC 22000, FSMA, and food safety regulations.
• Experienced leading FSSC 22000 internal audit program is required.
• Additional Experience leading ISO 45001 internal audit is an asset.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Proficient in using quality data management software and tools.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Certifications:

• HACCP certification required.
• BRC/FSSC 22000, PCQI, or other relevant food safety certifications required. ISO 45001 Internal auditor is valued.

At Upper Crust, we are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and accessible environment, where all employees are valued and supported. We are dedicated to fostering a workforce reflecting the diversity of our community and will consider all qualified applicants for employment.

Upper Crust is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to applicants and employees with disabilities or special needs requiring accommodation. If you require accommodation, please notify our Human Resources Team at ext. 1480 or via email:

We thank all applicants for their interest in exploring employment opportunities with Upper Crust, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.