Vice President, Quality and Food Safety – North America

Reporting to the Senior Vice President, Manufacturing – North America, the successful candidate will be responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing the company‑wide strategy for quality and food safety across all operations. This role ensures compliance with regulatory standards, customer satisfaction, and proactive risk management, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement within teams.

Lassonde is seeking a leader recognized for integrity, ethics, and professional rigor. With a strategic vision, collaborative approach, and commitment to operational excellence, you will play a key role in driving growth and strengthening Lassonde’s reputation as an industry leader in the agri‑food industry.

Job Advantages

• A competitive salary with opportunities for advancement and career development.
• Access to a group insurance plan and a pension plan with employer contributions.
• Telemedicine and employee and family assistance programs.
• Recognition and wellness programs for employees.
• On‑site gym.
• Company organized activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and lead the corporate strategy for quality and food safety across all plants, divisions, and brands.
• Direct and engage teams responsible for quality assurance, quality control, food safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and standards (e.g., CFIA, FDA, HACCP, SQF, FSSC 22000).
• Maintain and enhance quality and food safety management systems, including internal and external audits, complaint handling, and product recalls.
• Collaborate closely with production, R&D, logistics, marketing, and sales to integrate quality and food safety requirements into product development and commercialization.
• Manage strategic relationships with regulatory authorities, major clients, and external stakeholders on quality and food safety issues.
• Develop talent through training, awareness, and professional development initiatives.
• Monitor industry trends and recommend best practices to position Lassonde as a leader in quality and food safety.
• Manage departmental budget and optimize resources to achieve strategic objectives.

Required Training and Experience

• University degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in quality and food safety management, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within the food industry.
• Strong knowledge of North American and international regulatory standards.

Skills Sought

• Bilingual (French/English), both written and spoken – essential for communication with English‑speaking colleagues, clients, and suppliers across provinces and internationally.
• Proven leadership with ability to mobilize and lead multidisciplinary, multi‑site teams.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and risk management skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and change management abilities.

Travel Requirements

• Occasional travel within North America may be required.

#J-18808-Ljbffr