FSQ ESC Manager & XQM Regional Auditor

This role provides end-to-end FSQ leadership for assigned ESC locations (strategic risk assessment, qualification, ongoing governance, and issue management) and leads / executes FSQ audits to verify compliance with General Mills policies, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations. The position influences cross-functionally (FSQ Product Managers, XQMs, Sourcing, Supply Chain, R&D, Plants) to proactively identify risk, close gaps, and build capability across ESC partners.

Successful candidates must have the ability to travel throughout South America and the US.

Key Responsibilities

ESC FSQ Ownership (External Manufacturing)

· Serve as primary FSQ contact for assigned ESC locations, accountable for FSQ risk management from pre-assessment through steady-state production.

· Lead FSQ input to new ESC qualifications, line expansions, and significant changes (process, product, packaging, supplier) in partnership with Sourcing, Supply Chain, and R&D.

· Ensure robust application of GMI FSQ policies, standards, and tools at ESC sites (including hazard analysis, preventive controls, allergen management, sanitation, traceability, and physical hazard controls).

· Review and approve ESC FSQ documentation (e.g., site programs, COAs, deviations, investigations) to ensure alignment to GMI requirements.

· Lead / support issue management and incident response for assigned ESCs (consumer complaints, foreign material, micro, allergen, labeling, specification nonconformance), including root cause analysis and sustainable corrective / preventive actions.

· Leverage data (complaints, incidents, audit results, KPIs) to proactively identify systemic risk and drive continuous improvement plans with ESC partners.

FSQ Auditing (XQM Responsibilities)

· Plan, lead, and execute supplier audits for a defined region in alignment with GMI policies, global audit tools, and regulatory expectations.

· Objectively assess site conformance to FSQ standards, identify critical and major gaps, and clearly communicate risk and priorities to site and business leadership.

· Author clear, risk-based audit reports and coach sites on effective corrective-action plans (ownership, timelines, verification of effectiveness).

· Partner with global XQM peers to ensure consistent calibration of audit expectations and findings across the network.

· Contribute to continuous improvement of FSQ audit tools, guidance, and training based on learnings from the field.

Minimum Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemical / Mechanical / Industrial Engineering, Microbiology, or related technical field.

· 5+ years of experience in Food Safety & Quality, including experience in a plant and/or ESC environment.

· Demonstrated experience leading FSQ risk assessments, investigations, and corrective-action plans for significant quality or food safety events.

· Hands-on experience with HACCP/HARPC, prerequisite programs, and regulatory requirements (FDA/USDA or equivalent).

· Strong technical problem-solving skills with the ability to synthesize data from multiple sources into clear risk-based recommendations.

· Proven ability to influence and coach cross-functional and external partner teams without direct authority.

· Willingness and ability to travel (domestic and international) to support audits, qualifications, and issue management (estimate: 50%, depending on business needs).

· Most of the travel is planned well in advance and, when possible, multiple audits will be performed on a trip.

Preferred Qualifications

· Advanced degree (M.S.) in Food Science, Engineering, or related field.

· Formal audit training and/or certification (e.g., lead auditor, GFSI scheme experience, internal corporate audit experience).

· Prior experience in an XQM, ESC FSQ Manager, or equivalent network / regional FSQ role.

· Experience with external manufacturing, co-manufacturing networks, or supplier quality management across multiple geographies.

· Deep experience with physical hazard programs (metal detection, X-ray, sieving/sifting, foreign material prevention), allergen control, sanitation, and environmental monitoring.

· Demonstrated success driving multi-site FSQ improvement programs and influencing senior leaders.

Key Success Factors

· Thinks and acts with a network mindset, connecting insights across sites and partners to reduce systemic risk.

· Balances pragmatic, risk-based decision making with strong adherence to GMI FSQ standards and values.

· Communicates complex technical issues in clear, concise, business-relevant terms.

· Builds strong, trust-based relationships with ESC partners while holding them accountable to expectations.




ELIGIBILITY

Applicants must meet minimum age qualifications in the country in which the job is located.