Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement comprehensive quality assurance and food safety strategies across the supply chain, from sourcing to manufacturing to distribution.
• Lead and manage both the Food Safety and Quality Assurance (FSQA), and Research & Development (R&D) teams, setting clear objectives, and ensuring continuous improvement in processes and outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant local, national, and international regulations and standards, including USDA, FDA, and Open Farm’s certification requirements (i.e., Global Animal Partnership, Certified Humane, OceanWise, MSC/ASC).
• Work closely with Procurement and Co-Manufacturing teams to establish quality and safety criteria for raw materials and production.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of a robust Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) system and ensure all products are manufactured in a safe, hygienic environment.
• Lead crisis management efforts in response to any quality or safety issues, including recalls, and ensure transparent communication with consumers, regulators, and other key stakeholders (e.g., senior leadership team).
• Lead Open Farm’s R&D function that drives nutrition, better pet food formulation, process engineering, ingredient technology and innovation advances that improve how we feed our pets.
• Foster a culture of quality and safety throughout the organization, promoting continuous education, training, and awareness among employees.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Customer Service teams to communicate quality and safety standards and initiatives to customers and the public where relevant.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, innovations, and regulatory changes that impact food quality and safety, and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Serve on the Senior Leadership Team and contribute perspective to overall strategic direction for the organization.
• Bring a desire to roll up your sleeves and dig into the details to ensure all aspects of Open Farm’s FSQA strategy and protocol are best-in-class.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in food science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field. A PhD considered a plus.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP, BRC, SQF and Food safety / Quality Management programs.
• Deep experience in food quality and safety management, including in a leadership role, preferably in the meat processing and/or pet food industries.
• Extensive knowledge of food processing technologies, particularly related to meat.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful quality assurance and food safety programs.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Deep understanding of regulatory requirements and certifications related to meat safety and, ideally, pet food.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.