3PO Quality Manager

Ferrero•Parsippany, NJ

54d•$81,188 - $108,250

About The Position

The 3rd Party Operations (3PO) Food Safety & Quality (FSQ) Manager plays a critical role in safeguarding Ferrero's commitment to delivering safe, high-quality products to consumers. This position oversees FSQ standards across external manufacturing, packaging, warehousing, and transportation partners, ensuring full alignment with Ferrero's global guidelines. Reporting to the NAM 3PO & Supply Chain FSQ Director, the FSQ Manager leads continuous improvement initiatives, drives training efforts, and champions food safety and quality programs throughout the external operations.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline, with at least 8 years of relevant experience in food safety and quality.
Deep understanding of FSQ systems and standards, including GFSI and ISO 9001.
Hands-on experience in operations and supply chain management across external manufacturing and packaging environments.
Formal training and practical experience as an FSQ auditor; lead auditor certification is preferred.
Expertise in food safety programs and regulatory frameworks such as HACCP, cGMPs, FSMA, and allergen management.
Demonstrated ability to conduct traceability and manage product data using SAP.
A track record of driving process improvements using structured problem-solving methodologies.
Strong capability to set strategic objectives, prioritize effectively, and lead cross-functional initiatives across internal and external stakeholders.
Willingness and ability to travel frequently to support 3PO sites and ensure FSQ standards are upheld.

Responsibilities

Lead the implementation and continuous improvement of the 3PO FSQ assessment, qualification, and re-approval program based on risk and compliance.
Evaluate 3POs' capabilities to meet Ferrero's Food Safety & Quality (FSQ) standards and regulatory requirements through audits, performance metrics, and routine oversight.
Plan, conduct, and report on FSQ audits across external manufacturing, packaging, and warehousing sites in North America; follow up on findings and escalate critical non-conformities as needed.
Drive the implementation of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs), ensuring timely resolution and sustainable improvements.
Monitor FSQ performance across the 3PO network using KPIs and monthly reporting; identify risks and opportunities for improvement.
Investigate FSQ-related incidents and consumer complaints linked to 3POs, and lead the development of effective action plans.
Ensure robust traceability systems are in place at 3PO sites; conduct traceability tests and coordinate mock recalls and actual withdrawal events.
Act as the primary FSQ contact for 3POs, including recall coordination and issue escalation.
Support the scouting, selection, and onboarding of new 3POs, including pre-audit evaluations and alignment on FSQ requirements during contractual negotiations.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Innovation, and other departments to ensure FSQ requirements are embedded in product development, testing, and operational execution.
Lead FSQ-related continuous improvement initiatives and cross-functional projects that enhance product quality, consumer safety, and operational efficiency.
Develop and deliver FSQ training programs to internal teams and 3PO partners, promoting a strong FSQ culture across the external supply chain.
Stay current on regulatory and industry trends, and adapt FSQ strategies to maintain best-in-class standards.