Senior Manager Product Quality Assurance

Sodexo Careers•North Bethesda, MD

1d•Remote

About The Position

The Senior Manager, Product Quality Assurance, is a critical member of Sodexo’s North America Food Safety team. This role is responsible for leading and supporting food safety and quality initiatives through effective program and project management, supplier second-party audits, and Sodexo’s first party offsite audits. The position ensures that Sodexo’s PQA systems are robust, scalable, and aligned with company standards and regulatory requirements. This is a remote position, requiring 40%-60% travel. Candidates should reside near a major airport.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Public Health, or related field.
5+ years’ experience working in food safety management, auditing, or consulting role
Strong knowledge of food safety regulations (FDA, USDA, CFIA, etc.) and industry standards.
Familiarity with Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) benchmarked schemes (e.g., SQF, BRCGS, FSSC 22000).
PCQI & HACCP certifications

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree or certifications (SQF, ISO Lead Auditor) preferred.
Experience with ISO certification processes and audit management preferred.
Strong auditing background, including supplier second party and internal audits.

Responsibilities

Own, manage, and continuously improve first‑ and second‑party food safety audit programs, including developing audit standards, conducting audits, and coordinating with external suppliers and internal Sodexo facilities.
Analyze, trend, and present audit results to stakeholders; develop and maintain supplier risk matrices to prioritize high‑risk suppliers; and drive continuous improvement based on audit outcomes, feedback, and evolving regulatory requirements.
Conduct second-party supplier audits to assess compliance with Sodexo’s food safety and quality standards.
Conduct first ‑ party audits at Sodexo offsite production facilities to verify compliance with regulatory and global standards.
Manage PQA programs and projects across food manufacturing and retail foodservice environments.
Collaborate with internal teams including PQA, Food Safety, and Supply Management to drive continuous improvement.
Monitor and report on key performance indicators related to product quality and safety.
Provide subject matter expertise in food safety regulations and industry best practices.