Regional Quality Assurance Manager

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Quality Assurance Manager to lead Quality Assurance and Food Safety activities across the Middle East. The role ensures the highest standards of product quality, regulatory compliance and operational excellence across retail stores, cafés, warehouses, co‑packing operations, distribution networks, suppliers and franchise partners.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and maintain regional QA and Food Safety programs, policies, standards and procedures, ensuring compliance with local regulations and corporate requirements.
• Develop and execute risk‑based audit programmes for stores, warehouses, suppliers, logistics providers, co‑packers and franchise operations, tracking corrective actions to closure.
• Manage supplier approval, monitoring and re‑evaluation, conduct supplier audits and coordinate laboratory testing.
• Oversee hygiene, allergen management, traceability, temperature control, cleaning, pest control and product handling standards across retail, café and supply‑chain operations.
• Lead customer complaint investigations, CAPA programmes, product holds, recalls and crisis simulations.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Microbiology, Quality Assurance or related field.
• 7–10 years progressive experience in Quality Assurance and Food Safety within retail, café, food service, confectionery or FMCG environments.
• HACCP certification and Level 4 Food Safety qualification (or equivalent).
• Qualified Internal Auditor or Lead Auditor.
• Fluent English and willingness to travel regularly across UAE, KSA and other Middle East markets.

Required skills

• Knowledge of food safety management systems such as ISO 22000, FSSC 22000, BRCGS, IFS or AIB.
• Practical knowledge of UAE, KSA and GCC food regulations and labeling requirements.
• Experience conducting supplier audits, technical assessments and managing CAPA and recall programmes.
• Strong data analysis, reporting and stakeholder management abilities.