Lab & Incoming Material Manager

About the Role:

We have a current opening for a Quality Lab/ Incoming Manager and are actively reviewing applications.

The Quality Lab/ Incoming Manager is a key functional and management position in the Ferrero Quality Organization and is in charge of managing the laboratory executing microbiological, chemical, physical and sensorial analysis.

The scope includes incoming materials (raw materials and packaging), semi-finished, finished products and environmental testing.

As a member of the Quality Leadership Team of the plant, this position reports directly to the Head of Quality.

Manage directly a team of 7 members and is actively involved in cross functional work with Production, R&D/Technology and Corporate Central Quality Laboratory located in Europe.

This is a key role in the current transition of the plant to the Ferrero standards: a new Laboratory and new analytical equipment and methodology are introduced under the management of this position.

Main Responsibilities:

1. Laboratory Development and Management

* Contributes to the definition of analytical strategy, in collaboration with the Plant Quality Manager and Central Laboratory;

* Propose new equipment, new methodologies and manages the budget associated;

* Manages outsourced analysis and is the key contact for external labs;

* Ensure that Good Laboratories Practices are met, propose continuous improvement;

* Act as a coach and provide technical support in implementing new methodology or trouble shooting;

* Ensure that Safety Programs are in place;

* Key member of the Food Safety Team.

2. Incoming Raw materials and Packaging Management

* Manage the schedule and program of the Laboratory to ensure that analysis are executed efficiently and in a timely manner;

* Organize, coordinates and manages the sampling program defined;

* Review the analytical results and provide interpretation;

* Based on the interpretation oversees the release the materials by his/her team and issue Non-Conformance in Incoming;

* Provide trend analysis to the Quality Manager with recommendation;

* Guarantees the correct quality of the results (precision, accuracy) according to regulations and give evidence participating to Ring Test;

* Responsible for managing the status of the stock (hold, released and in inspection);

3. Team management

* Management of her/his team to ensure that all activities are performed accurately and on time;

* Ensure that all team members are trained on related procedures and operate in compliance with the work instructions and procedures;

* Organize work schedule and priorities of her/his team;

* Manage the yearly performance evaluation of direct reports;

* Manage the development of each team member

About You:

* B.Sc Degree in Microbiology and/or Chemistry, Food Science preferred, or other related field

* Minimum 4 years in a Quality Lab Supervisor/Manager role in a plant in food industry.

* Familiar with Food safety systems, quality systems.

* Knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices.

* Knowledge and experience in Root Cause Analysis

* Quality Assurance experience in a food manufacturing environment

* Experience of GFSI standards (FSSC 22000, SQF, BRC) required, Quality Standard ISO
17025 is a plus.

* People Management experience required.

* Excellent analytical and organizational skills

* Strong communication skills in a multi-cultural environment

* Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and deadlines

* Good knowledge and practice of laboratory analysis

* Proficient in computer systems, data analysis, and Microsoft Office, etc.

* Proficiency in SAP is an added advantage.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

As part of our recruitment process, Ferrero may use artificial intelligence (AI) enabled tools to assist with reviewing candidate applications. These tools are used solely to support recruiters by summarizing application information and identifying potential alignment with job requirements. AI does not independently screen out or select candidates, and it does not replace human judgment. Final decisions regarding candidate progression are always made by Ferrero recruiters and hiring managers.

Our Benefits & Perks:

Careers with caring built in - discover our benefits here.

The base salary range for this position is $92,000 - $123,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This range represents the anticipated salary for this position at this time.

In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.

About Ferrero:

Ferrero began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world's largest sweet-packaged food companies, with many iconic brands sold in countries all over the world. Find out more about Ferrero at

DE&I at Ferrero:

Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture in which all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have the…