Quality Assurance Laboratory Team Leader at Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL)

Job Purpose

This position is responsible for ensuring the operational management of all KWAL laboratory (Analytical and Microbiological) and Sensory activities, to support production process control and the laboratory in case of quality issues and NPI projects.

Main Responsibilities

Quality of the process and product

• Manage all the work and activities and ensure they are done in line with the quality standards (ISO9001, LSS, TPM etc.). 
• Collect and assess all quality data from the analysis activities (Analytical, Microbiological and Sensory) in the cellar.
• Support in case of quality issues and NPI projects.

Lab Process Management

• Manage all the laboratory processes (in-line and off-line) and execute the agreed plans and strategy.
• Manage the main and mini labs on the processes
• Plan and facilitate service / Calibration of all laboratory equipment
• Budget and requisition of new, replacement of obsolete laboratory equipment
• Manage laboratory assets, equipment and consumables (chemicals & glassware) including library samples (product)
• Ensure execution of the requested analyses.

Equipment Management

• Monitor and conduct analysis of all instruments (in-line and off-line) and ensure they are managed in desired way (standard working condition).
• Manage purchasing activities for the laboratory.

Safety, Food Safety and Sustainability

• Manage the laboratory facilities to ensure they are clean and tidy working areas without unnecessary losses of consumables/chemicals, in line with the defined and implemented safety standards 
• Ensure effective management of Pre-Requisite Programs (PRPs) including Pest Control, Waste Management, Drainage systems, Equipment and Personal Hygiene, Calibrations services and Supply of utilities
• Ensure the follow-up of 5S and HACCP standards at the workplace.
• Develop and update the QA/QC policies, procedures, protocols and checklists in line with Food safety and QMS standards
• Develop and facilitate sensory training for approved panellists in liaison and support from Heineken HBI
• Participate in (cross-functional) technical root cause, problem solving sessions relevant to Food Safety and Quality Non-conformances

Compliance Management

• Manage and approve of finished products to comply with extrinsic and intrinsic specifications as per internal, regulatory and statutory requirements.
• Collaboration with the internal stakeholder in Engineering, Production and Winery processes to achieve the conformance and improvements in GMP and hygiene standards impacting on food safety performance.
• Liaison with external stakeholders like KEBs on quality compliance, co-ordination and acquisition of the standardisation mark, product/regulatory standards, coordination and reporting on proficiency testing reports

TPM and Continuous Improvement

• Monitor and support the TPM way of working.
• Support the implementation of the improvement activities.

Reporting

• Collect  and process basic data and prepare reports within the scope of the laboratory activities.
• Provide timely reports on to the QSHE Manager for decision making related to process controls
• Collate and maintain all quality and food safety records and documents

People Management

• Supervise and provide feedback on the individual performance, assess training needs and overall QATs staff motivation
• Provide support to laboratory QATs and Microbiologists
• Create an environment where staff can realise their full potential and contribute to the attainment of departmental and organizational goals
• Create a sense of common purpose within QSHE to facilitate delivery of quality products 

Minimum Required Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience

Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s of Science in Food Science / Industrial and Analytical Chemistry/  Biotechnology/ Biochemistry, Microbiology or a related in field

Professional Qualifications

• Lead Auditor (ISO QMS, ISO FSSC/FSMS).
• Qualified Quality Systems Management (QMS) 
• Management systems- ISO 17025
• Lead auditor, Quality Management systems QMS 

Experience 

• At least 6 years, 2 years experience in management role in a manufacturing company with experience in food manufacturing and quality management processes

Competencies

Technical Competencies

• In-depth understanding of quality standards, food safety/HACCP systems. 
• Excellent communication skills (oral, written and listening).
• Understanding and knowledge in alcoholic beverage standards and training skills.
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of management and staff.
• Must be proactive and be able to anticipate issues rather than being reactive.
• Competencies on industrial Laboratory management
• Experience in Alcoholic beverages processing
• Documentation and reporting skills 

Behavioural Competencies

• Demonstrate strong leadership skills, including the ability to inspire and motivate teams, foster a positive work environment, and drive organizational performance, champion of diversity, equality and inclusivity practices
• High level of integrity
• Collaboration with the team members and other units within the department and function
• Strong understanding of business principles and practices and ability to assess business risks
• Ability to develop and implement long-term goals and initiatives that align with the company’s vision and objectives
• Demonstrate a deep commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs
• Ability to employ logical reasoning and critical analysis to evaluate information and make sound decisions
• Demonstrate Change management skills 
• Continuously seek new opportunities to enhance KWAL products and service, embracing new technologies and methodologies to drive growth and maintain a competitive edge
• Ability to support the professional growth of employees through guidance and feedback
• Demonstrate resilient, agility, ability to work under pressure with high integrity