At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure food safety and quality for poultry products in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a leading food safety team at a reputable organisation.
- Benefits: Hybrid work, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced role with travel opportunities and a strong focus on teamwork.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food safety standards in the UK.
- Qualifications: Degree in Food Science or related field with 3+ years of experience.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Location: Ashford, United Kingdom (Hybrid)
Role Purpose: The Associate Manager, Food Safety & Quality Assurance (FSQA), is responsible for supporting food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance for imported poultry products supplied to Quick Service Restaurants (QSR), foodservice and retail customers in the UK. The role ensures products meet UK legal requirements, customer standards, and internal specifications from origin through import, storage, and distribution.
Key Responsibilities
- Food Safety & Quality Systems: Support the maintenance and continuous improvement of food safety and quality management systems aligned to BRCGS standards. Maintain and verify HACCP, TACCP and VACCP plans specific to raw and cooked poultry, including microbiological, chemical, and physical hazards. Ensure product specifications, risk assessments, and shelf‑life validation reflect imported supply chains and QSR usage conditions. Monitor quality and food safety KPIs, driving corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
- Customer & QSR Requirements: Support compliance with QSR and other customer standards, specifications, and codes of practice. Assist with customer audits, gap assessments, and ongoing performance monitoring. Support management of customer complaints, food safety incidents, and withdrawals/recalls where required. Act as an FSQA contact for customer queries related to poultry sourcing, traceability, and compliance.
- Supplier Oversight: Support approval, monitoring, and performance review of logistics providers (cold stores, hauliers). Participate in supplier audits, risk assessments, and corrective action follow‑up. Support alignment of supplier practices with UK customer expectations and brand requirements.
- Operations & Distribution Support: Work closely with supply chain, procurement, and logistics teams to ensure food safety controls are maintained throughout cold chain distribution. Support management of non‑conformances related to storage, transport, and handling of frozen or chilled poultry. Ensure traceability systems are robust, tested, and compliant with UK legal and customer requirements.
- Training & Food Safety Culture: Support delivery of food safety, hygiene, and quality training for internal teams. Promote a strong food safety culture, particularly across import, logistics, and commercial functions. Provide technical guidance on poultry hazards, hygiene, and regulatory requirements.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- BSc Degree or equivalent in Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, or related discipline.
- 3+ years of experience in the same field.
- Experience working in food manufacturing, import/export, or foodservice supply.
- Excellent spoken and written English.
- Strong knowledge of HACCP and food safety management systems.
- Understanding of UK food safety legislation and import requirements for POAO.
- Experience supporting audits and managing technical documentation.
Desirable:
- Experience working with poultry products / meat products.
- Experience with QSR or major food service customers.
- Knowledge of BRCGS Issue 9, FSSC 22000, or equivalent.
- Internal or Lead Auditor qualification.
- Familiarity with veterinary controls and border processes.
Personal Attributes:
- Detail‑focused with strong organisational skills.
- Confident communicator able to work cross‑functionally and with external partners.
- Proactive, resilient, and comfortable operating in a fast‑paced, customer‑driven environment.
- Strong commitment to food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.
Travel & Logistics:
- Travel: 2‑3 times per month
Not eligible for visa sponsorship now or in the future. Not eligible for relocation assistance.
Work Shift: Standard Office 7.5 Hours (United Kingdom)
The successful candidate(s) must be willing and able to perform the physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation. Tyson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, national origin, color, religion, age, genetics, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.
Associate Manager – Food Safety & Quality Assurance (FSQA) in Ashford employer: Tyson Foods Europe
Tyson Foods is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Ashford that prioritises food safety and quality assurance. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide comprehensive training and development opportunities, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Our hybrid work model allows for flexibility while ensuring that our team members are integral to maintaining the highest standards in food safety and compliance.
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We think this is how you could land Associate Manager – Food Safety & Quality Assurance (FSQA) in Ashford
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We think you need these skills to ace Associate Manager – Food Safety & Quality Assurance (FSQA) in Ashford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Tyson Foods Europe, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
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Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Tyson Foods Europe. Make it personal and compelling!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Tyson Foods Europe
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