To strengthen spec adherence and customer relationships by utilizing data analytics and key facility performance metrics. Connects and integrates internal and external Quality Assurance programs, related customers, regulatory agency activity, detecting/correcting out of specification situations, and optimizing product and process implementation. Communicates information related to the quality system internally and externally.
Essential Positions Responsibilities - This is a salary exempt position
Quality Champion. Oversees the plant Quality System and all related programs to ensure that internal and external requirements are met and sustained. Works with FSQA team to ensure sustainability of programs and quality. Utilizes root cause analysis tools to aid in appropriate corrective action and preventive measures for identified risks or failures. Fits new customer requirements into existing processes while driving continuous improvement. Assists in the evaluation of projects and monitoring efforts. Works with customers and customer account teams.
Data Champion. Facilitates organization of quality related data and records. Conducts customer quality trend analysis to assess consistency to specification, using internal and external data. Ensures customer data is uploaded to the appropriate share files or portals. Interprets and analyzes available data to aid in continuous improvement of products and processes. Initiates and leads cross-functional teams to problem solve data trends. Has the ability to produce, analyze, and report statistical data.
Audit Champion. Demonstrates advanced knowledge of the quality, food safety, and regulatory requirements related to plant programs and processes. Maintains all audit standards and leads plant adherence. Leads internal and external audits, attends third-party cuttings (as needed), and provides recap of results. Leads root cause analysis techniques to achieve appropriate corrective action and preventive measures are put into place for identified risks or failures.
Leadership. Would have direct report(s). Demonstrates leadership qualities with respect to process/product design capabilities with strong communication skills. Maintains competence and further education by attending technical meetings and classes. Guides and develops cooperative relationships between plant and quality personnel, maintaining open communication. Effectively communicates specifications, quality, and food safety related requirements to necessary personnel. Leads and/or participates in meetings with quality and/or production personnel to ensure communication with all levels of facility personnel on quality and food safety related topics.
Facilitates customer interaction. Communicates with customer representatives, relating to quality assurance. Works closely with customer or supplier technical representatives and may involve test coordination, based on availability. Ensures customer specifications are being followed, and any deviations to specifications are addressed. Supports communication on all concerns customers may have, including investigating and communicating corrective actions for customer complaints as well as proactive communication of product performance. Ensures customer requested data is provided timely and accurately. Works to identify and address relevant trends.
Manages employees. Directs and supervises employees’ work activities and monitors work performance. Collaborates with Human Resources to screen, interview and hire candidates. Administers disciplinary actions and recommends performance improvement actions in collaboration with the HR Manager. Monitors work performance and recommends compensation decisions based on guidelines. Follows Simmons values to develop and maintain a favorable working relationship with all employees. Promotes a cooperative and harmonious environment in order to facilitate positive employee morale, productivity, and continued improvement.
Participates as a member of the Team. Participates in the ongoing development, communication and implementation of team concepts, programs, and policies; coordinates work to ensure best practices with all team members. Attends appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all major issues, e.g., direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any areas that lack cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforce actions needed, to achieve synergy possible within the larger organization.
Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives. Is familiar with Simmons’ established operating systems (e.g. quality, security, office environment, company policies, LEAN); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with the systems and this position’s role in support of these systems – including a consideration of the impact of individual actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas.
Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives. This position description is intended to guide the activities of the person in this position and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person as to the work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this position.
Physical Activities: Enters and locates information on a computer. Visually verifies information, often in small print. Communicates with Customers, Vendors, or Employees via telephone, in person, and/or electronic mail. May present information to small or large groups. Must be able to work in various temperatures. Move about in a manufacturing environment and surrounding property. May travel via car or plane to various work locations. Must be able to stoop, bend, and climb ladders to perform inspections. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): As needed in the required environment.
Travel: Travels domestically to and from multiple facilities or worksites, possibly requiring overnight stays. Expected travel is less than 10%.
Technical Experience: 3 years’ experience in food processing with experience related to food safety, quality management, auditing, and/or process development. Experience requirements are commensurate with education. Must have excellent computer skills with respect to the Microsoft Office Suite and statistical programs such as Minitab. Strong data entry skills are required. Intermediate to advanced level skills in Excel and PowerPoint as well as experience preparing documents for presentation.
Industry Experience: Preference for food processing organizations.
Minimum Education: Depending on assigned business unit(s), Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Animal Nutrition, Animal Science, Meat Science, Engineering or related degree or 4 years’ experience.
Preferred Education: None
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Equal Opportunity Employer
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