Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager Job Vacancy Agri-Food Processing

Position:
Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager

Company:
Unilever South Africa

Location:

Nelspruit, South Africa

Experience:

3-5 years

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Agricultural Science, or related field

Employment Type:

Full-time

Industry: Agri-Food Processing

Department:
Quality and Compliance

Salary: 65,000 – 85,000 SSP

Vacancies:1

Unilever South Africa, a global leader in food and consumer goods, is committed to driving sustainable growth through innovative agri-food solutions. With operations spanning production, distribution, and R&D, the company prioritizes food safety, ethical sourcing, and community development across South Africa. This role supports Unilever’s mission to deliver high-quality, safe, and sustainable food products to markets nationwide.

South Africa Jobs are expanding in the agri-food sector as companies like Unilever invest in local supply chains. This Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager position in Nelspruit offers a unique Career Opportunity in South Africa to lead food safety protocols, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance product quality across the agri-food value chain.

• Develop and implement food safety and quality assurance protocols for agri-food production.
• Conduct audits to ensure compliance with national and international food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000).
• Collaborate with suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors to maintain quality benchmarks.
• Investigate and resolve food safety incidents or quality deviations.
• Provide training to staff on hygiene, sanitation, and quality control procedures.
• Monitor and report on food safety metrics to senior management.

• Proven expertise in food safety management systems and regulatory compliance.
• Strong analytical skills for risk assessment and quality data analysis.
• Excellent leadership and team coordination abilities.
• Proficiency in food microbiology and chemical testing methodologies.
• Excellent communication skills for stakeholder engagement and reporting.
• Knowledge of South African food safety legislation (e.g., Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act).

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Agricultural Science, or a related discipline. Postgraduate qualifications in Food Safety Management or Quality Assurance are advantageous.

Minimum of 3–5 years in food safety or quality assurance roles, preferably within agri-food processing. Experience in managing cross-functional teams and handling large-scale production environments is essential.

65,000 – 85,000 SSP annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

• Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage.
• Performance-based bonuses and annual leave allowances.
• Professional development opportunities and certifications.
• Transport and accommodation allowances for Nelspruit-based roles.
• Access to Unilever’s global employee wellness programs.

• Onboarding training on Unilever’s food safety protocols and digital quality management tools.
• Workshops on emerging food safety trends and regulatory updates.
• Leadership development programs for career advancement.

This role operates in a dynamic agri-food processing environment, combining office-based strategic planning with on-site inspections at production facilities. The position requires occasional travel to supplier sites and regional distribution centers. Candidates must be adaptable to fast-paced settings and committed to maintaining high safety and quality standards.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews and practical assessments.

Applications close on .

Unilever South Africa is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, gender, religion, age, or disability.