Job Description
Position: Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager
Company: Nestlé Zambia Ltd
Location: Mufulira, Zambia
Experience: 5+ years in food safety and quality assurance
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or related field
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Food & Beverage Manufacturing
Department: Quality Assurance
Salary: SSP 150,000 – 250,000 per month
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Nestlé Zambia Ltd is a leading multinational food and beverage company with a strong presence across the African continent. Established in Zambia for over three decades, Nestlé has built a reputation for delivering high‑quality nutrition, health, and wellness products to consumers. The company operates state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing facilities, invests heavily in sustainable sourcing, and collaborates closely with local farmers and suppliers to strengthen the agricultural value chain. As part of its commitment to excellence, Nestlé Zambia continuously seeks talent that can uphold its rigorous standards and drive innovation in product safety.
With a workforce that values diversity, integrity, and continuous improvement, Nestlé Zambia offers a dynamic environment where employees can grow professionally while contributing to the nation’s food security. The organization is recognized for its robust corporate social responsibility programs, including community nutrition initiatives, environmental stewardship, and youth empowerment projects. By joining Nestlé Zambia, you become part of a global network that prioritizes consumer trust and product integrity.
Our Mufulira site serves as a strategic hub for the production of staple foods, dairy, and confectionery items that reach households across the Copperbelt Province and beyond. The plant adheres to international food safety standards such as ISO 22000, BRC, and HACCP, ensuring that every product leaving the line meets the highest quality expectations. The Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager will play a pivotal role in maintaining these standards and supporting Nestlé’s vision of “Good Food, Good Life” for Zambians.
Job Overview
The Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager will lead the quality assurance function at the Mufulira manufacturing facility. Reporting directly to the Regional Quality Director, you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring food safety systems that comply with local regulations and global Nestlé standards. This role involves close collaboration with production, R&D, supply chain, and regulatory affairs teams to ensure seamless integration of quality practices throughout the product lifecycle.
Key objectives include safeguarding consumer health, minimizing product recalls, and driving continuous improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency. You will also act as the primary liaison with external auditors, certification bodies, and government agencies, representing Nestlé’s commitment to excellence in food safety.
For more information about Nestlé’s global career opportunities, visit our main portal at https://zambiajobssearch.com. Additional resources on regional employment trends can be found at https://www.liberiajobsearch.com/.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, maintain, and update the plant’s HACCP plan, ensuring alignment with ISO 22000 and BRC standards.
- Lead internal and external audits, prepare audit reports, and implement corrective actions within stipulated timelines.
- Monitor critical control points (CCPs) through regular inspections, sampling, and laboratory testing.
- Collaborate with R&D to evaluate new product formulations for safety and compliance before launch.
- Train and mentor production staff on GMP, hygiene practices, and proper documentation procedures.
- Investigate non‑conformities, conduct root‑cause analysis, and drive preventive measures to avoid recurrence.
- Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of Zambian food safety regulations and ensure plant compliance.
- Prepare and present monthly quality performance dashboards to senior management.
- Manage relationships with third‑party testing laboratories and ensure timely receipt of analytical results.
- Support sustainability initiatives by promoting waste reduction and resource efficiency in quality processes.
Required Skills
- In‑depth knowledge of HACCP, ISO 22000, BRC, and local food safety legislation.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a data‑driven mindset.
- Excellent communication skills for cross‑functional collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
- Proficiency in quality management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Leadership experience with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
- Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of documentation.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Certified Food Safety Professional (CFSP) or HACCP Lead Auditor are highly desirable.
Experience
Minimum of five years’ experience in food safety and quality assurance within a manufacturing environment, preferably in the FMCG sector. Prior experience managing audit processes and leading cross‑functional quality projects is essential.
Salary
The successful candidate will receive a competitive monthly salary ranging from SSP 150,000 to SSP 250,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Salary reviews are conducted annually based on performance and market benchmarks.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health insurance covering employee and dependents.
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
- Performance‑based bonuses and annual salary adjustments.
- Paid parental and annual leave in line with Zambian labor law.
- Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
Training
- Continuous professional development through Nestlé Academy courses.
- Access to industry conferences and certification programs.
- On‑the‑job mentorship from senior quality leaders.
- Leadership development tracks for high‑potential employees.
Working Environment
Our Mufulira facility offers a modern, safety‑focused workplace equipped with advanced processing equipment and laboratory resources. The culture emphasizes teamwork, transparency, and a shared commitment to delivering safe, nutritious products to Zambian consumers.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience via the online portal on the Nestlé careers website. Applications will be screened by the Talent Acquisition team, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Nestlé Zambia Ltd is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.