Job Description: Head of Quality

Position Title: Head of Quality (QA & Food Safety)

Industry: Food Processing / Manufacturing

Location: Sri Lanka

Recruitment Partner: The Right Talent (Sri Lanka)

About the Role

On behalf of our client—a leading food processing organization in Sri Lanka—The Right Talent is seeking an experienced Head of Quality. This executive role will oversee all quality assurance, food safety systems, regulatory compliance, and laboratory operations across manufacturing facilities to ensure world-class standards for both local distribution and export markets.

Key Responsibilities

Quality & Safety Leadership: Formulate company-wide QA/QC strategies and maintain certified systems (FSSC 22000, ISO 22000, BRCGS, HACCP, GMP).
Regulatory Compliance: Direct compliance with local laws (Sri Lanka Food Act No. 26 of 1980, SLSI regulations) and international export requirements (FDA, EU, Halal, Organic).
Plant Hygiene & Audits: Oversee sanitation, allergen management, traceability, and mock recall programs. Serve as the lead contact for external, regulatory, and buyer audits.
Lab Operations & RCA: Manage central micro/chem laboratories, supplier quality, and lead Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and CAPA for quality non-conformances.
Team Development: Build, train, and mentor factory QA/QC teams, driving a strong quality-first culture across production lines.

Required Profile

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, or a related discipline. Lead Auditor certification in ISO 22000/FSSC 22000 is required.
Experience: 10+ years in food processing QA/QC, with 3+ years in a senior leadership role managing factory quality systems.
Regulatory & Technical Mastery: Hands-on experience with GFSI audits, SLSI standards, and export/import compliance.
Skills: Strong problem-solving, team leadership, and fluent communication in English and Sinhala/Tamil.