Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & Quality Systems
Develop and implement company-wide quality strategy aligned with business objectives
Establish and maintain ISO 22000, HACCP, GLOBALG.A.P., and other relevant certification programs
Create and manage a comprehensive Quality Management System (QMS) across all operations
Set quality KPIs and benchmarks for all business units and monitor performance regularly
Lead quality risk assessment and management initiatives
Agricultural Production Quality
Develop and enforce quality standards for field operations including:
Varietal selection and rootstock quality
Crop nutrition and irrigation management
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs
Pre-harvest quality controls and maturity indices
Residue monitoring and management programs
Implement traceability systems from field to finished product
Manage relationships with certification bodies for agricultural standards
Packing House Operations
Oversee quality control in two packing facilities (grapes and citrus):
Incoming fruit inspection and grading standards
Packing line quality controls and efficiency
Cold chain management and temperature control
Packaging materials quality and compliance
Finished product inspection and release procedures
Develop and implement corrective action programs for quality deviations
Manage customer quality complaints and returns
Concentrate Factory Quality
Establish quality systems for fruit concentrate production:
Raw material (fruit) intake quality standards
Processing parameters and quality controls
Laboratory testing protocols (Brix, acidity, color, microbiology)
Finished product specifications and certification
Microbiological controls and sanitation programs
Ensure compliance with FDA, EU, and other international standards for processed foods
Team Leadership & Development
Lead and mentor a team of quality managers, supervisors, and technicians
Develop training programs on quality procedures and standards
Foster a culture of quality excellence throughout the organization
Manage departmental budgets and resources effectively
Customer & Regulatory Relations
Serve as primary quality contact for key customers and retailers
Manage customer audits and quality assessments
Ensure compliance with all local, national, and international regulations
Represent the company in industry quality forums and associations
Stay current with evolving quality standards and best practices
Continuous Improvement
Lead root cause analysis and problem-solving initiatives
Implement statistical process control where applicable
Drive continuous improvement in quality metrics and operational efficiency
Benchmark against industry leaders and implement best practices
EducationBachelor's degree in Agriculture, Food Science, Horticulture, or related field (Master's preferred)Professional certifications in Quality Management, HACCP, or related fieldsExperienceMinimum +15 years' experience in agricultural quality managementExtensive experience with fresh produce quality (grapes and citrus essential)Experience with fruit processing or concentrate manufacturingProven track record in managing quality in vertically integrated agricultural operationsExperience with multiple quality certifications and audit processesTechnical KnowledgeExpert knowledge of:Postharvest physiology of fruitsQuality standards for table grapes and citrusBerry production and quality parametersFruit processing and concentrate productionFood safety standards and regulationsLaboratory testing methods and equipmentStrong understanding of agricultural production systemsSkills & CompetenciesExcellent leadership and team management abilitiesStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsEffective communication and interpersonal skillsProject management and organizational capabilitiesFluency in English (additional languages beneficial)Proficient with quality management software and systemsReporting StructureReports to: CEO