Systems and Compliance Manager at Vert

About the Role

This is a pivotal leadership role within our technical department. You will be the cornerstone of our Food Safety and Quality Management Systems, responsible for their development, maintenance, and verification against the most rigorous global standards. You will act as the primary interface during external audits, lead our internal audit program, and drive a proactive culture of food safety and quality throughout the organization, from farm to finished product. 

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and update the integrated documentation for our Food Safety and Quality Management Systems (FSQMS) to ensure compliance with BRCGS (Version 9), FSSC 22000, GlobalGAP (Field Ops), and other relevant standards (SMETA, ISO 14001, Halal, Kosher).
• Establish a centralized, uniform system for controlling all policies, procedures, and recording formats across the organization.
• Ensure all documentation is accessible, accurate, and aligned with evolving regulatory and customer requirements.
• Plan, coordinate, and report on the internal audit schedule. Lead follow-up activities to ensure effective and timely corrective actions.
• Conduct regular farm inspections and audits to ensure compliance with GlobalGAP and other relevant standards.
• Serve as the primary company representative during all external certification and customer audits, presenting our FSQMS with confidence and expertise.
• Perform comprehensive risk assessments for suppliers and service providers.
• Oversee supplier performance monitoring and enforce corrective actions for non-compliance.
• Collaborate with procurement and production teams to ensure non-product items and equipment are specified, procured, and commissioned in line with food safety and quality requirements.
• Analyze data from packhouse operations, customer complaints, laboratory results, and process trends to identify root causes and drive preventative actions.
• Regularly review and enhance the FSQMS to reflect changes in standards, regulations, and operational processes.
• Lead the food safety team meetings and coordinate the management review process.
• Develop and implement the company’s Food Safety Culture Plan, monitoring its effectiveness and championing on-time completion of all related activities.
• Identify training needs and develop programs for operational and quality staff.
• Coordinate the induction and initial training for incoming senior staff.
• Provide leadership and direction to the food safety team, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Develop and implement robust emergency preparedness and response plans for recalls and other crises.
• Collaborate with the R&D team in new product development, conducting risk assessments and validation studies.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of proven experience in a similar Systems, Quality, or Compliance management role within the food manufacturing industry.
• Extensive, hands-on experience with BRCGS and FSSC 22000 standards is essential. Experience with GlobalGAP, SMETA, and environmental standards (ISO 14001) is highly desirable.
• Lead Auditor certification (e.g., IRCA certified) in a GFSI-benchmarked scheme.
• Demonstrable experience in conducting internal and supplier audits, managing external audits, and driving corrective action programs.
• Experience with fruit processing, particularly dried fruits and purees, is a significant advantage.

Skills & Competencies:

• Exceptional skill in developing, controlling, and managing complex quality and food safety documentation systems.
• Strong data analysis skills with the ability to translate trends into actionable insights and strategic improvements.
• A natural leader who can influence and collaborate effectively with diverse teams, from farm managers to senior management.
• A forward-thinker who stays updated on industry trends, legal requirements, and emerging risks.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and confidently.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and lead effectively during emergencies.