Food Safety Director / Facility Manager - Confidential #8454

Family-owned company that has been in operation for almost 50 years. We are growers, packers, and shippers of various produce goods.

We are seeking a Food Safety Director / Facility Manager to join our team in Los Angeles, CA. We are looking to fill this role ASAP.

This role will oversee the development, implementation, and management of food safety programs to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations within the fresh produce industry. This individual will lead the company’s efforts in maintaining the highest standards of food safety, quality, and hygiene throughout all stages of production, from farm to distribution. The Food Safety Director will also collaborate with cross-functional teams, vendors, and regulatory agencies to ensure a culture of continuous improvement and proactive risk management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Food Safety Program Management: Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive food safety plans (including HACCP, HARPC, FSMA, GFSI, etc.) specific to the fresh produce industry. Ensure that all facilities, processes, and products meet or exceed safety standards.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay current on federal, state, and local food safety regulations and ensure compliance with all applicable laws, including FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) and FDA guidelines.
• Manage audit processes and interactions with regulatory bodies and certification entities.
• Risk Management: Identify potential food safety risks across the supply chain and develop mitigation strategies. Implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to address food safety concerns.
• Training and Development: Lead food safety training programs for employees, ensuring that all staff are knowledgeable about proper handling, hygiene, sanitation, and safety protocols.
• Supplier Management: Conduct food safety audits of suppliers, co-packers, and third-party logistics providers. Ensure that suppliers meet company and industry food safety standards.
• Traceability and Recall Management: Implement and maintain robust traceability systems for fresh produce, ensuring rapid response and corrective action in the event of a food safety issue or product recall.
• Continuous Improvement: Lead efforts to improve food safety processes, technologies, and systems, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in safety and quality.
• Team Leadership: Manage the food safety and quality assurance team, providing guidance, support, and leadership. Foster a collaborative working environment.
• Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate and detailed records of food safety activities, audits, inspections, corrective actions, and other relevant documentation.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, including Operations, Quality Assurance, R&D, and Sales, to ensure alignment and integration of food safety standards across all functions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Agriculture, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in food safety management, with a strong focus on fresh produce.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations, including FSMA, HACCP, HARPC, and GFSI standards.
• Experience with audits, inspections, and regulatory agency interactions.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Certification in HACCP, PCQI, SQF, or similar is highly desirable.

Working Conditions:

• This position may require travel to farms, packing facilities, and suppliers.
• Must be able to work in both office and agricultural environments.

Compensation:

Competitive salary, plus benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and potential for performance-based bonuses.