Quality Control Manager

Overview

The Quality Control Manager leads the Quality Control function, ensuring the delivery of accurate, reliable, and compliant laboratory testing services that support product quality, food/feed safety, and regulatory requirements. The role is responsible for laboratory operations, team leadership, quality systems, non-conformance management, product release, and continuous improvement initiatives, while overseeing the implementation and optimization of the LabVantage Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and manage the Quality Control team to deliver high-quality laboratory services.
• Oversee laboratory operations, resource planning, testing activities, and turnaround times.
• Manage and optimize the LabVantage LIMS to improve data integrity, traceability, workflow efficiency, and reporting.
• Maintain QC quality systems, documentation, procedures, training programs, and document control processes.
• Review laboratory results, approve Certificates of Analysis, and support raw material and finished product release.
• Lead investigations into non-conforming products, laboratory deviations, complaints, and out-of-specification results. Work with operations to formulate a rework plan
• Conduct root cause analyses and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Ensure compliance with quality management systems, GMP, food/feed safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Support internal and external audits and ensure timely closure of findings.
• Manage laboratory equipment qualification, calibration, maintenance, and validation activities.
• Develop and monitor QC KPIs, performance metrics, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with Operations, QA, R&D, Regulatory Affairs, Supply Chain, and Customer Service teams on quality-related projects and product commercialization activities.
• Promote laboratory safety, 5S+1 practices, and a culture of continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Microbiology, Food Science, Biochemistry, Animal Science, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in Quality Control, Quality Assurance, or laboratory management.
• Previous supervisory or people management experience.
• Experience within manufacturing, food, feed, pharmaceutical, or other regulated industries. 

Key Competencies

• Strong leadership, coaching, and people management skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Project management and continuous improvement expertise.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity.
• Ability to influence and collaborate across cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of quality systems, food/feed safety standards, and laboratory best practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, M3, LabVantage, and related business systems.
• Adaptability and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to lifelong learning and servant leadership principles.

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver's license.
• Ability to work in a laboratory and manufacturing environment, including lifting up to 25kg, frequent standing/walking, and exposure to typical laboratory conditions.
• Based in Johannesburg, South Africa.

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