Quality and R&D manager

5 Reasons to Roll Out of Bed

• Enjoy the world's most delicious cookies every day!
• A position with room for independence and responsibility
• File-free environment
• Extensive, tailor-made training
• Annual activities organized by the party committee

What you do

As Quality & R&D Manager, you'll be responsible for developing our organization's long-term strategy for quality and product development. You'll be the driving force behind and strengthen the synergy between quality, research, and product development. You'll be responsible for maintaining our robust quality system and supporting our process control, which proactively safeguards our quality level.

You lead a multidisciplinary team of 6 specialists, including:

• 2 colleagues responsible for complaint handling and customer portal management,
• 4 R&D profiles: a packaging specialist, a product specialist, a product developer and a process specialist.

You'll bring structure, order, and process flow to the organization and ensure your team's operations are perfectly aligned with broader corporate objectives. You'll support strategic projects that contribute to our ambitious growth plans and work closely with the supply chain to ensure a well-managed product lifecycle.

Your core tasks

• You develop and monitor the long-term quality and R&D strategy.
• You coach and inspire your team, and create a climate of continuous improvement and collaboration.
• You ensure efficient and structured operation of the innovation process, in which new products are developed and introduced smoothly and in a controlled manner.
• You are responsible for the analysis and follow-up of customer feedback, non-conformities and quality indicators.
• You coordinate the development and optimization of processes and products with a focus on performance, quality, and food safety.
• You are ultimately responsible for quality standards such as IFS and BRC and ensure successful certifications in close cooperation with the relevant departments.
• You are the liaison between your team and other departments such as production, supply chain and sales.
• You represent the company in terms of quality and innovation to customers, suppliers and official bodies.

Who you are

• You have a master's degree in (bio)science, food technology or engineering.
• You have at least 10 years of experience in a management role in quality and/or R&D within the food industry or a similar sector.
• You combine strong scientific insight with a practical, results-oriented approach.
• You have a natural drive for structure, order and process optimization.
• You are a born leader who knows how to motivate people, give them direction and encourage them to take responsibility.
• You are familiar with quality systems (IFS, BRC, HACCP, ...) and product development processes.
• You speak Dutch, French and English fluently.
• Knowledge of ERP systems and PLM tools is a plus.

What you can expect

• A strategic key role in a strong brand that is internationally appreciated.
• A dynamic team where passion for quality and innovation are central.
• A work environment that encourages initiative, collaboration and personal growth.
• You will have the opportunity to work in a 100% Belgian but internationally renowned and appreciated food company.
• Destrooper Biscuits also stands for talent development. You'll receive the necessary support to further develop and expand your capabilities.
• Your base is Oostkamp, but you can be deployed to both production sites.
• A good work-life balance is our top priority. You'll work flexible hours, and a home policy is in place.
• Annual activities organized by the festival committee (Tour Destrooper, New Year's party, summer drinks, etc.)!
• A competitive salary package with numerous fringe benefits.