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Quality Assurance Specialist
Quality Assurance Specialist (R&D) – Mars Wrigley Confectionery
Location: Plymouth • Department: Research & Development
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our R&D team as a Quality Assurance Specialist. Based at our Plymouth site within Mars Wrigley Confectionery, this role is critical to ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality products and driving continuous improvement across our Quality Management System (QMS).
The ideal candidate will act as a leading voice for Quality and Food Safety (Q&FS), engaging, coaching, and inspiring supply and technical teams to uphold the strongest standards. As a role model for quality leadership, you will champion CAPA processes, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives, fostering a culture where excellence is prioritised in every decision.
About the Role
You will:
- Implement global QMS standards into our factory environment and ensure their effective execution.
- Lead internal audits, regular process confirmations, and CAPA processes to drive sustainability.
- Engage as the single point of contact for consumers and customers, leading investigations and trend analysis.
- Represent the site in regional QMS communities of practice and external standards bodies (LRQA, Halal & Kosher).
- Coach and support technical associates in troubleshooting, risk management, and product safety compliance.
- Foster a strong quality culture through interactive on-site events, workshops, and training initiatives.
What Are We Looking For?
Essential Qualifications
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree in food technology, quality management, microbiology, or a related quality discipline.
- Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.
Experience
- At least 2 years’ experience in the food industry or a dedicated Quality Assurance (QA) role.
Key Technical Knowledge
- Strong working knowledge of HACCP and FSSC 22000 standards.
- Familiarity with ISO 9001/14001, food safety regulations, and regulatory auditing processes would be advantageous.
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Core Skills
- Audit management, risk assessment, and problem-solving abilities.
- Exceptional organisational, planning, and priority-setting skills.
- Demonstrated capacity for accountability, results-driven decision-making, and cross-functional collaboration.
Key Competencies
- Quality leadership and passion for continuous improvement.
- Training & mentoring discipline, with a focus on developing workforce quality skills.
- Proficiency in building peer relationships, influencing diverse teams, and networking with internal/external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Quality Management & Audits
- Deploy global standards across our Plymouth site, ensuring consistent implementation.
- Lead internal and external audits, including LRQA assessments, Halal, and Kosher standards obedience.
- Organise internal auditor training and act as the regional liaison in QMS community groups.
CAPA Process Ownership
- Oversee local and regional Corrective & Preventive Action (CAPA) processes, driving root cause analysis.
- Ensure non-conformities are resolved continuously according to QMS requirements.
- Track, report, and optimise CAPA metrics for operational excellence.
Complaint & Incident Management
- Serve as the primary authority for customer/consumer complaints, investigations, and follow-up.
- Conduct trend analysis and lead targeted projects to reduce complaint incidences across the site.
- Monitor complaint reduction targets to exceed regional benchmarks.
Standards Ownership & QMS Reviews
- Coordinate QMS reviews, recording outcomes and implementing necessary refinements.
- Maintain up-to-date Q&FS standards and ensure timely compliance.
Technical Assistance & Cross-Functional Engagement
- Provide expert Q&FS consultation to assist factory associates in risk interception and quality assurance.
- Assist in troubleshooting technical challenges, ensuring product safety mechanisms remain intact.
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Quality Culture & Engagement
- Promote a robust quality mindset through initiatives such as:
- Quality Day events
- Quality Conversations workshops
- Interactive training programs
What Can You Expect from Mars?
A Company Built on Principle & Purpose
Mars is guided by The Five Principles—showing up for one another, taking care of people and animals, innovating and growing, doing some good, and focusing on integrity and accountability.
Career Growth & Development
- Mars University (access to extensive in-house training and development programs).
- Continuous learning opportunities tailored to your career ambitions.
Competitive Benefits
- Industry-competitive salary and a performance-linked company bonus.
- Attractive benefits package, including family support and wellness initiatives.
Why Join Mars UK?
We foster a culture where talent connects, inspires, and thrives. At Mars Wrigley Confectionery, our teams are:
- Innovative, pushing the boundaries of confectionery excellence.
- Inclusive, valuing every voice and background.
- Integrity-driven,ensuring quality fortifies every decision.
Nature of Role:
- On-site presence essential (full-time based at the PLC Annex, Plymouth).
This role is not eligible for relocation support.
Disability & Inclusion Note:
Mars consistently strives to create an environment where everyone feels supported. If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage of the application process (due to a disability, long-term health condition, or neurodiversity), please complete our Reasonable Adjustment Request Form here.
Bring your passion for Quality Assurance, your expertise, and your drive—let’s shape the future of snacking together. 🍬
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