Quality Assurance Specialist

Bulmers is part of C&C Group plc, a premium drinks company which owns, manufactures, markets and distributes a unique portfolio of beer and cider brands in its home markets and across the globe. You probably know us best from brands like Bulmers, Magners and Tennent’s.About the role

Our site in Clonmel is the home of Irish cider. And our Quality team are focused on making sure that every sip is perfect.

We have an excellent opportunity to join the team as a Quality Assurance Specialist who will be responsible for carrying out chemical, microbiological, packaging and sensory analysis as required, from crushing stage to finished product stages of production.

What you'll be doing

Key areas of responsibilities will be across:

Quality Assurance:

• Accountable for achievement of site quality KPI’s which include, phys chem, micro, non conformances, customer complaints
• Maintenance and development of the sites Quality Systems and Standards e.g. BRC, ISO
• Chemical, microbiological, packaging and sensory analysis
• Analyse data and identify problem areas to develop quality improvement plans and validate & interpret test data
• Monitor progress of improvement plan and adjust as necessary
• Collaborate with cross functional teams to identify areas for improvement and develop solutions
• Ensure that quality standards are met through regular audits and inspections & manage schedules of same
• Investigation of complaints, analysis and reporting
• Compiling, trending and analysis of relevant quality reports from crushing through to packaging
• Investigating and assisting with establishing root cause for Internal Non-Conformances and close outs
• Encourage an environment of continuous improvement, teamwork, and knowledge sharing
• Foster a culture of safety, collaboration and high performance within the quality team

Continuous Improvement:

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and effectiveness of the process
• Analyse root causes
• Collaborate with cross functional teams to identify opportunities for process improvements

Compliance & Safety:

• Ensure that all activities comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations and environmental guidelines
• Foster and promote an environment of safety ensuring the well-being of all colleagues and drive efforts to reduce safety risks ensuring that all colleagues adhere to safety protocols and drives best practices
• Conduct and present findings and recommendations with regular safety audits and risk assessments to mitigate hazards

Budgeting & Cost Management:

• Evaluate and propose cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or safety

Customer & Supplier Management:

• Manage relationships with external Customers & Suppliers

Reporting & Documentation:

• Maintain accurate records of quality records.
• Maintain reports for relevant labs and associated activities.

About you

• Recognised science qualification & relevant laboratory experience
• Strong understanding of quality assurance withing the food or drinks industry
• Strong understanding of fast paced manufacturing processes
• Strong laboratory analytical skills with the ability to identify patterns and trends
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross functional teams
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data analysis software e.g. QC Pro
• Knowledge of industry best practices in quality & laboratory improvements
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to drive change, through positive communication channels
• Ability to challenge and influence at all levels to encourage positive change
• Ability to work in a physical & fast paced laboratory & manufacturing environment (Inc. manual handling, lab bench work)