In this position, you will be responsible for developing objectives for policies, programs, and activities of the Corporate Quality Division. Develops corporate quality strategy designed to meet business objectives and monitors performance against goals. Directs all company wide quality activities and development and control of long-range quality plans. Responsible for recommending all quality policies.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily

• Design, implement, audit and communicate management quality systems, programs and processes in support and adherence to compliance requirements for natural and organic, refrigerated yogurt, low fat ice cream, hard pack and soft serve frozen yogurt products manufactured by the company and it’s affiliates.


• Set the strategy and implement quality management initiatives for all areas of corporate quality including manufacturing, copackers, and suppliers. 


• Work closely with the heads of sales and marketing to design and implement a strategic approach to monitoring feedback from customer and consumers that provide proactive responses to feedback received regarding the product quality of all Stonyfield products.


• Partners closely with Danone to identify best practices that allow Stonyfield to improve overall quality practices and achieve superior consumer response to the quality of our products.


• Develops, directs and coordinates activities of the Corporate Quality organization in accomplishing goals and objectives within corporate policies. 


• Oversee the design and structure of the corporate quality department to ensure the acquisition of critical skill is achieved through staffing, evaluate and coach employees to strengthen core competencies in discipline, lead performance development of subordinates and mentor managers and supervisors to build talent for future growth and expansion.


• Responsible for establishing corporate quality priorities; assesses opportunities with appropriate research to contribute to developing annual plans and strategies.


• As a member of the Operations Committee, participate in the development and execution of long-range corporate strategy.


• Responsible for developing and maintaining a close working relationship with Marketing, R&D, Manufacturing and Supply Chain departments, providing clear communication of new product and product improvement needs to help maintain a smooth, efficient new product development process.


• Responsible for securing approval of goals, objectives, policies, and programs for corporate quality; periodically evaluates and reports results.


• Responsible for corporate quality budget preparation.


• Directs and plans changes in corporate quality organization required for achievement of quality objectives. Ensures that all personnel are trained to perform their jobs effectively.


• Ensures that morale of personnel within the Corporate Quality Division is positive and provides for a viable organization in order to meet the division’s commitments.


• Coordinates and collaborates with other departments of the Company in establishing and carrying out responsibilities.


• Perform other duties as assigned.

 ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support environmental programs established within the organization to include recycle all office wastes according to program guidelines, initiate power conservation techniques by turning off lights and Computers when not in use.


• Proactively look for ways to reduce negative impacts on the environment

SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Proactively work in a safe manner in the context of performing the functions of your position

• Oversee the implementation and adherence to Company safety practices and programs and hold staff accountable for leading safety in the work place.

 QUALIFICATIONS

·         Master’s degree in food science, microbiology, or other related field

·         Minimum of 15 years of corporate quality management experience at a senior level within the food industry.  Multi-company background is strongly preferred.  Experience in organic foods is also preferred.

·         Proven history of developing and promoting quality personnel to levels of greater responsibility required.

·         Solid working knowledge of computers and related systems is an absolute requirement.  Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint is preferred.

·         Strong personal selling skills and demonstrated leadership qualities are required.

·         Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and the willingness to work within an established management group are required.

·         A high degree of self-initiative and the potential for continued growth in management are preferred.

·         Experience in an entrepreneurial smaller company will be considered an asset.

·         Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines within specified time constraints.

·         Ability to operate in a team environment.

·         Ability to adapt in a changing work environment.

·         Must be able to travel routinely to perform essential functions of the job.