Sr Manager, QFS COE, Systems, Standards and Certifications

Systems, Standards and Certifications, Sr Manager

The Systems, Standards and Certifications, Sr Manager leads the governance, deployment and continuous improvement of Quality & Food Safety systems, standards, certification programs and QFS artwork approval processes. The role connects regional business needs with global Quality & Food Safety teams, ensures internal and external requirements are translated into effective operating practices, and enables consistent execution across manufacturing plants, Quality in Design, sourcing, innovation and route-to-market activities.

This leader manages a team of managers and specialists and serves as the senior QFS point of contact for systems, standards, third-party certifications and QFS aspects of artwork and labeling. The role combines technical stewardship, cross-functional leadership, capability building, performance management and process improvement to support compliant, efficient product delivery.

Key Responsibilities

As a key member of our team, you will play an important role in driving our mission forward. The following responsibilities outline the core expectations and contributions for this position:

QFS systems and standards governance

• Act as the primary regional point of contact for QFS systems and standards, partnering with global Food Safety, Quality and standards teams.
• Provide US and Canada expertise, business input and operational insight to support the design and ongoing improvement of QFS systems and standards.
• Serve as the accountable custodian and gatekeeper for implementation of applicable Danone QFS Standards and Requirements across categories and business activities.
• Provide governance for the deployment of new and existing QFS systems and standards across manufacturing plants, Quality in Design, sourcing and route-to-market activities.
• Develop business impact assessments, implementation plans, resource requirements and clear recommendations for new or revised systems and standards.
• Coordinate communication, education and training so category and site teams can effectively cascade, implement and sustain requirements.
• Promote standardization, simplify ways of working and identify synergies through a continuous improvement mindset.
• Drive execution of Culture of Quality roadmap in partnership with Global, regional and local teams

Certifications and external requirements

• Lead QFS third-party certification programs and qualification processes for products and manufacturing locations in the United States and Canada.
• Serve as the key QFS decision point for certification matters and represent the company with certifying bodies, as appropriate.
• Ensure certification requirements are translated into effective processes, documentation, testing, verification and records.
• Lead material or finished-product compliance activities required by certification programs, including analysis and reporting of results in partnership with Regulatory and manufacturing teams.
• Act as a subject matter expert and primary resource for manufacturing plants on certification requirements and related QFS expectations.
• Maintain awareness of relevant regulatory and certifying-agency requirements that affect assigned certification, labeling and artwork responsibilities.

Artwork, labeling and product coding

• Lead the QFS graphic and artwork approval process across the manufacturing network and product portfolio in the United States and Canada.
• Represent QFS on certification, artwork and labeling projects, including new product launches, label changes, plant trials and formulation or material changes.
• Ensure QFS review and approval activities meet internal requirements and applicable external obligations.
• Provide education and technical guidance to plants and cross-functional partners on label control, graphic standards, certifications and product coding requirements.
• Partner with Regulatory and other technical functions on matters including nutrition facts panels, allergen labeling, certification claims and other labeling requirements within the role scope.

Cross-functional leadership and product delivery

• Build strong relationships, collaborate and strengthen cross-functional ways of working to deliver products that meet Danone requirements.
• Develop partnerships with global functional peers and participate in cross-business initiatives where applicable.
• Lead change, resolve complex issues and align stakeholders around practical, compliant and timely solutions.
• Enable excellence in execution by connecting policy and standards with the realities of plant, innovation, commercialization and supply operations.

Team leadership and performance management

• Directly manage and lead a team of managers and specialists responsible for QFS systems, standards, certifications and artwork or labeling processes.
• Set clear priorities, accountabilities and performance expectations for the team.
• Build capability through coaching, developmental plans, feedback and succession planning.
• Develop, manage and continuously improve key performance indicators for the function.
• Ensure robust documentation, record keeping, knowledge management and continuity of critical processes.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• This role is primarily performed in a standard office setting and requires the ability to remain in a stationary position (e.g., seated or standing) for extended periods.
• The employee may be exposed to moderate noise levels from office equipment and conversations. Hybrid or remote work arrangements may apply, which can introduce variability in work settings.

The salary range for this position is $111,000.00 $159,000.00 USD. The exact salary offered will depend on several factors, including the candidate's relevant experience, geographic location, internal equity, and market conditions. Danone North America additionally offers a performance-based bonus and has a strong benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage, 401k Plan, Wellness Program, Life Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, Flexible Time Off, and Paid Parental Bonding Leave, among other benefit plan options. To give our employees flexibility, Danone is a hybrid work environment. This role is considered a "hybrid" position that allows for flexible work, meaning it is a role where collaboration with key stakeholders in Danone Hubs occurs. While you may have the option to work from home on a schedule as agreed to with your supervisor, you are also expected to regularly report to your assigned office location at least 3 days per week.

The ideal candidate will bring a combination of education, experience, and skills that enable them to excel in this position. The following qualifications outline what we're looking for, including both required and preferred criteria:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Science, Food Science, Food Technology or a related technical discipline.
• At least 7 years of combined experience in quality, food safety, ingredients, food packaging, manufacturing processes or related technical functions.
• Advanced understanding of Quality & Food Safety systems and current food regulations applicable to the role scope.
• Experience with third-party certification programs and auditing; SQF, FSSC or another GFSI-recognized scheme qualification is preferred.
• Solid understanding of plant production systems, manufacturing equipment, Good Manufacturing Practices, sanitation and related operational controls.
• Demonstrated experience driving corrective action, process improvement and sustainable change across functions or sites.
• Experience leading people, including managers or technical specialists, and building team capability.
• Located in WP or LSVL, Travel 25%.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong ownership and visible demonstration of Danone behaviors and values.
• Passion for standardization, simplification and continuous improvement.
• Strong leadership courage, sound judgment and the ability to make and communicate clear decisions.
• Excellent collaboration and influencing skills across functions, levels, sites and geographies.
• Ability to manage deadlines and multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
• Facts- and data-driven approach with strong analytical, synthesis and problem-solving capability.
• Excellent written, verbal, presentation, documentation and record-keeping skills.
• Adaptable, self-directed and results-oriented, with the ability to work independently and handle confidential information.
• Ability to learn and use new systems, tools and programs quickly.