Supplier Quality Assurance Specialist
Location: Kent
Salary: C. £35k DOE
Hybrid Split: 3 days office / 2 days remote
The Role
An established international ingredients and manufacturing solutions business is seeking a Supplier Quality Assurance Specialist to support its quality function within a fast-paced food and nutrition environment. Their Kent site plays a key role in quality, compliance, and supplier assurance activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Review and approve raw material specifications to ensure compliance with food safety, regulatory, and product requirements.
- Conduct supplier risk assessments, performance reviews, and monitoring activities.
- Maintain and update the Approved Supplier List.
- Support compliance with recognised food safety standards (e.g., BRCGS/GFSI frameworks).
- Assist with internal and supplier audits, including documentation review.
- Ensure compliance with UK food legislation, allergen controls, labelling requirements, and compositional standards.
- Carry out HACCP-based raw material risk assessments covering microbiological, allergen, and chemical hazards.
- Apply food defence and food fraud vulnerability assessment principles.
- Manage testing data within LIMS and verify Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for traceability.
- Support certification processes such as Kosher and Halal where required.
- Investigate supplier non-conformances and lead root cause analysis and corrective/preventative actions (CAPA).
- Assist with recall/withdrawal procedures and mock traceability exercises.
- Support the Quality & Food Safety Management System (QFSMS) and maintain accurate documentation control.
- Monitor quality KPIs and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
About You
- 1–2 years’ experience within a Quality role in the food industry (supplier quality experience desirable).
- Strong understanding of food safety standards such as HACCP, BRCGS, ISO 22000, or similar.
- Knowledge of UK food law, allergen management, and regulatory compliance.
- Experience supporting certification schemes (e.g., Kosher, Halal, sustainability standards) is advantageous.
- Familiarity with LIMS, ERP, or QMS systems.
- Confident analysing data and reporting KPIs.
- Supplier auditing experience desirable (Lead Auditor qualification beneficial).
- Able to assess risk and implement effective corrective actions.
What’s Offered
- Discretionary performance bonus
- Training and development opportunities
- BUPA after 6 months
- Subsidised gym membershipFlexible pay access scheme
Supplier Quality Assurance Specialist employer: drnewitt.vincere.io
As a Quality Group Leader in Poole, you will join a dynamic team dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of food safety and quality. Our company fosters a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee development through continuous training and support, ensuring you have the tools to excel in your role. With a commitment to innovation and compliance, we offer a rewarding environment where your contributions directly impact our success and the well-being of our customers.
