Quality Systems Leader in Nelson

The Quality Systems Leader is responsible for the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the organisation’s quality management systems (QMS). This role ensures that all policies, procedures, and practices meet regulatory, customer, and industry standards, driving a culture of quality, compliance, and operational excellence. The postholder acts as a key partner to operational teams, proactively supporting audit readiness and fostering consistent, high‑quality performance across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Review & Maintenance of the Quality Management System.
• Manage the site QMS System and work alongside the Supplier Approval and Specification Leader.
• Ensure all paperwork is current and the correct versions are issued to each department.
• Be the main stakeholder for the site allergen management program (AMP).
• Maintenance and manage adherence of the internal label systems in terms of allergen and traceability information.
• Play an instrumental part in the development of a digital platform QMS.
• Champion Food Safety Culture of the site by actively playing a role in site training and development of staff and managing site FSC Surveys.
• Ensure all key information is completed regarding site, process and product information to all customers or 2nd / 3rd party audits.
• Leader for Safety Culture platform and the updates required.
• Lead the site pest control contractors, ensuring all actions are robustly closed off within timescales.
• Ensure all Trend Analysis is completed to deadlines.
• Oversee the completion of GMP audits.
• Collate micro samples, swabs, nutritional and fresh check swabs and ensure these are done to schedule.
• Ensure all Operational tasks are completed to schedule GMP.

Auditing

• Completion of internal audits to schedule.
• Conduct monthly traceability audits and assist with any site product recalls or withdrawals.
• Manage the site calibration of equipment, ensuring all equipment has a valid calibration certificate.
• Ensure all returned paperwork is completed correctly and raise any issues with the relevant manager.

Reporting

• Continually improve site trend analysis on business KPIs.
• Track, trend and report on supplier performance.
• Investigate Non-Conformances with the Buying teams and suppliers.
• Investigate customer complaints, effectively communicating with all key stakeholders.
• Ensure all key information is completed regarding site, process and product information to all customers or 2nd / 3rd party audits.

People Responsibility

• Ensure mandatory training schedules are in place and delivered on time.
• Identify and embed daily tasks and accountabilities to empower the team to understand and deliver to the required standard, on time, in full.
• Involvement in disciplinary and grievance investigations and hearings as appropriate.
• Establish and maintain a strong working relationship with all departments across the company working collaboratively with key stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain an environment of respect and accountability to promote a cooperative and harmonious working culture.
• Support with delivering the Food Safety aspect of the Company’s induction day.

Knowledge & Experience

• Internal Audit Qualification.
• Train the Trainer (or similar) would be desirable.
• Current experience within the Food Industry and Quality Assurance experience are essential.
• Ability to translate BRC requirements and put into practice throughout the QMS.
• Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel) and operational systems.
• Knowledge of HACCP.

Benefits

• 33 days holiday (inclusive of Bank Holidays).
• Generous employee discounts on all our products.
• Fancy volunteering? We will give you one day off a year to take part in volunteering.
• Cycle to Work Scheme that offers discounted bikes and cycling equipment.
• Donate through your pay to a charity of your choice.
• Holiday Purchase Scheme.
• A range of employee assistance services which can be tailored to give you support on things such as finances, health and wellbeing.

About us

Wellocks is one of the leading UK fresh food distributors using the finest ingredients to support chefs with quality ingredients. We offer pre-prepared veg items to our customers which is an integral part of our service. We’re proud to be part of the William Jackson Food Group, a dedicated family-owned food business which started in 1851. Our sister businesses are Abel & Cole, Jacksons Bakery and Belazu. Family values and the commitment which comes with such a long-standing business are rooted in our culture here at Wellocks.

Diverse teams really are the best teams. We want everyone to feel they can be themselves at work and develop their talents to the full. All colleagues are expected to take personal responsibility for keeping our workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying - a place where everyone is treated fairly and respectfully.

We also know that sometimes some candidates may be put off applying for a job unless they think they can tick every box. If you are really excited about working with us and think you can do much of what we are looking for but aren’t sure if you are 100% there yet... go on... why not give it a whirl? Good luck!