As one of North America's top fresh produce companies, we’re proud to be recognized among Canada’s 50 Best-Managed Companies. We bring over 100 varieties of produce from more than 20 different countries to the market. Our business is managed by a team of professionals delivering exceptional service from over a dozen offices throughout North and South America. And because a healthy planet is essential to our growers, customers, and all of us at Oppenheimer, sustainability plays a vital role in everything we do.
We provide competitive wages and benefits, the chance to share in our profits, and development and training opportunities, as well as a great team environment!
Results & Outcome
The Food Safety & Government Regulations specialist reporting to the Executive VP & Chief Operations Officer, oversees the development and maintenance of the company’s food safety program in the USA and Canada, ensuring all regulations are met and relevant standards are maintained. Acts as a proactive advisor to internal departments, cold storage facilities, customers and grower partners on food safety related issues. Maintains positive and effective working relationships in a fast-paced work environment.
- Degree, diploma in business with a focus in food safety or agriculture is an asset
- 4-6 years of relevant industry experience
- Thorough understanding of food safety as it relates to the produce industry; comprehensive knowledge of HACCP, GMP, GAP, FDA and CFIA related regulations
- Experienced with GFSI, Primus, CFIA and/or USDA audits an asset.
- Self-motivated with high standards; able to handle a large volume of complex and detailed work within tight deadlines
- Highly developed written and verbal communication skills; ability to quickly build positive, highly effective business relationships
- Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office and Excel; general knowledge of relevant computer programs
- Leads the overall development and implementation of standardized food safety policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable regulatory requirements
- Manages food safety, organic and social responsibility audits for contracted and firm purchase fresh produce suppliers, and cold storage locations
- As required, advises on audit requirements, manages schedules and conducts post audit reviews, providing feedback on any deficiencies
- Reviews all audit reports and provides feedback on deficiencies
- Ensures that accurate records are maintained for audits and certifications
- Educates business partners on new customer requirements; as required, travels onsite to establish relationships and assist with dialogue around food safety and evaluating risk
- Leads the resolution of customer concerns in the food safety and regulatory arena
- Develops and maintains recall policy and procedures; communicates and educates employees to ensure understanding Collaborates with suppliers on appropriate corrective action as necessary
- Conducts mock recalls and crisis management exercises both internally and for various business partners
- Attends industry meetings to keep current and connected with changes and developments in the food safety and regulatory environment
- Oversees the liaison with US and Canadian customs, FDA and internal team members concerning import regulations of commodities. Provides support to suppliers with import detention
- Manages import and T&E permits for US. Collaborates with the quality control and operations function to resolve regulatory issues in an effective and timely manner
- Maintains an in-depth understanding of regulatory issues, pesticide legislations, FDA, CFIA, FSMA and USDA regulations
- Monitors changes and informs external and internal customers of new regulations
