Global Search Network

• Bachelors degree in Engineering, Dairy Science, or related Technical Degree with a Masters degree preferred
• Progressive & Stable work history is a must
• 10-15 years Quality Assurance experience in food manufacturing environments with emphasis on ESL, Aseptic, and/or Dairy equipment
• 2-4 years Sanitation experience.
• 2-4 years Lab Management experience.
• Multiple/remote plant quality management experience
• Understanding of plant production systems, dairy equipment, processing and filling equipment, GMP, HACCP, sanitation, plant safety, quality systems, kosher and organic regulations.
• 6-10 years multi-plant QA/QC responsibility preferred
• 4-6 years dairy industry/process experience preferred
• Responsible for defining, developing, and leading the Technical Services function.
• Initial priorities include aligning the broader organization to a common vision for the Technical Services function and creating a charter that defines roles and responsibilities.
• Direct Reports 4 salaried managers
• Support and drive new product, process and technological innovation, commercialization initiatives, associated regulatory interaction, and process improvement efforts.
• Preserve brand equity, improve manufacturing efficiency, and assure food quality and safety.
• Engage in activities with equipment manufacturers, industry colleagues, and regulatory agencies.
• Develop a Technical Services strategy and align across the organization.  Clearly define roles, responsibilities, and the points of connection with key partners including Research & Development, Operations, Engineering, and Project Management.
• Continue developing a team of process and product experts relevant to company products/processes and establish the team as a resource for the broader organization in all matters of technical services. 
• Assess the competencies of present team members and maximize alignment between skills and responsibilities.
• Strengthen competencies among the team by identifying developmental needs and delivering solutions accordingly.
• Utilize Lean Manufacturing concepts to improve processes and reduce waste.
• Perform process capability studies to verify that all manufacturing specifications can be met within co-pack and company owned manufacturing facilities. 
• Support and/or drive product commercialization, line/plant start-up, regulatory approval, program design, and other technical needs identified by the broader organization.
• Implement formulation specifications on new product start-ups in both co-pack and company owned manufacturing facilities. Improve the specification process where necessary.
• Implement commissioning protocols for new process equipment installed at both co-pack and company owned manufacturing facilities.
• Work closely with process authorities to facilitate the installation of new products and technologies.
• Troubleshoot and communicate product and process issues - ensure root cause / corrective actions are appropriate and are fully implemented.
•  Perform technical assessments of potential new partners to ensure that these facilities are capable of meeting company expectations.

Christopher Merida

Senior Search Consultant / Global Search Network

Food & Beverage, Tampa FL.  (813.832.8300 x 204Cell: 813.298.5428

Fax: 813.250.0280 Chris’ LinkedIn Profile  TwitterGSN