The Vice President, Technical Services is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of food quality and safety across the company as well as Research & Development (R&D). This position requires a deep understanding of food science, regulatory requirements, and quality assurance practices, particularly in the context of processed meat products (beef, pork, turkey, chicken). The VP will lead a team dedicated to ensuring that all products meet or exceed industry standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations for safety, quality, and nutritional value. This role will also be responsible for ensuring that Open Farm’s rigorous standards around animal welfare and quality nutrition are embedded in everything we do.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement comprehensive quality assurance and food safety strategies across the supply chain, from sourcing to manufacturing to distribution.
- Lead and manage both the Food Safety and Quality Assurance (FSQA), and Research & Development (R&D) teams, setting clear objectives, and ensuring continuous improvement in processes and outcomes.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant local, national, and international regulations and standards, including USDA, FDA, and Open Farm’s certification requirements (i.e., Global Animal Partnership, Certified Humane, OceanWise, MSC/ASC).
- Work closely with Procurement and Co-Manufacturing teams to establish quality and safety criteria for raw materials and production.
- Oversee the development and maintenance of a robust Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) system and ensure all products are manufactured in a safe, hygienic environment.
- Lead crisis management efforts in response to any quality or safety issues, including recalls, and ensure transparent communication with consumers, regulators, and other key stakeholders (e.g., senior leadership team).
- Lead Open Farm’s R&D function that drives nutrition, better pet food formulation, process engineering, ingredient technology and innovation advances that improve how we feed our pets.
- Foster a culture of quality and safety throughout the organization, promoting continuous education, training, and awareness among employees.
- Collaborate with Marketing and Customer Service teams to communicate quality and safety standards and initiatives to customers and the public where relevant.
- Stay abreast of industry trends, innovations, and regulatory changes that impact food quality and safety, and adjust strategies accordingly.
- Serve on the Senior Leadership Team and contribute perspective to overall strategic direction for the organization.
- Bring a desire to roll up your sleeves and dig into the details to ensure all aspects of Open Farm’s FSQA strategy and protocol are best-in-class.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in food science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field. A PhD considered a plus.
- Strong knowledge of HACCP, BRC, SQF and Food safety / Quality Management programs.
- Deep experience in food quality and safety management, including in a leadership role, preferably in the meat processing and/or pet food industries.
- Extensive knowledge of food processing technologies, particularly related to meat.
- Proven track record of developing and implementing successful quality assurance and food safety programs.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners.
- Deep understanding of regulatory requirements and certifications related to meat safety and, ideally, pet food.
- Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Our ValuesWe Raise the Bar | We Keep the Barn Doors Open | We Graze Lightly | We Lead the Pack | We are Inspired by Our Customers | We Have Fun Doing It Open Farm values diversity in its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. Applicants requiring a disability-related accommodation at any stage of Open Farm's recruitment process should contact [email protected]. As required by legislation, Open Farm will consult with applications requesting such an accommodation to ensure that Open Farm's recruitment process takes into account their accessibility needs.