Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager Job Vacancy in Karonga, Malawi – Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Job Description

Position: Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager

Company: Coca-Cola Beverages Africa

Location: Karonga, Malawi

Experience: 5+ years in food safety and quality assurance within manufacturing

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Department: Quality Assurance

Salary: SSP 1,200,000 – 1,800,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Coca-Cola Beverages Africa is a leading multinational beverage company with a strong presence across the African continent, including a state‑of‑the‑art bottling plant in Karonga, Malawi. The company is committed to delivering refreshing beverages while upholding the highest standards of food safety, sustainability, and community development. As part of its growth strategy, Coca‑Cola invests heavily in local talent, fostering career opportunities that contribute to the economic development of Malawi. This role offers a unique chance to be part of a dynamic team that drives quality excellence, supports local suppliers, and ensures that every product leaving the plant meets rigorous safety standards. The position aligns with the broader goal of creating safe, high‑quality beverages for consumers, reinforcing Coca‑Cola’s reputation as a trusted brand in Malawi and beyond. By joining the Quality Assurance department, you will play a pivotal role in safeguarding public health, supporting compliance with international regulations, and enhancing the company’s competitive edge in the fast‑moving consumer goods sector.

Job Overview

The Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager will lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of food safety systems across the Karonga bottling facility. Reporting to the Regional Quality Director, you will oversee all aspects of quality control, HACCP plan management, regulatory compliance, and internal audits. You will collaborate closely with production, engineering, supply chain, and R&D teams to embed a culture of quality throughout the organization. This role is critical for ensuring that Coca‑Cola’s products meet both local regulatory requirements and global standards such as ISO 22000 and GFSI. The successful candidate will also act as the primary liaison with external auditors, government agencies, and certification bodies. For more information, visit Malawi Job Search.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the HACCP plan and food safety management system for the Karonga plant.
• Lead internal and external audits, ensuring timely corrective actions and compliance with ISO 22000, GFSI, and Malawi’s Food Safety Regulations.
• Monitor critical control points (CCPs) and conduct risk assessments to prevent product contamination.
• Train and mentor production staff on food safety best practices, fostering a proactive quality culture.
• Collaborate with suppliers to verify raw material safety and conduct supplier audits.
• Analyze quality data, generate reports, and present findings to senior management for strategic decision‑making.
• Manage product recalls, investigations, and root‑cause analyses to mitigate future risks.
• Ensure proper documentation, record‑keeping, and traceability throughout the manufacturing process.

Required Skills

• In‑depth knowledge of HACCP, ISO 22000, and GFSI standards.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a data‑driven mindset.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for cross‑functional collaboration.
• Proficiency in quality management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Leadership experience in managing multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines while maintaining high standards.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Certified Food Safety Professional (CFSP) or HACCP‑Certified Practitioner are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of five years’ experience in food safety and quality assurance within a large‑scale manufacturing environment, preferably in the beverage sector. Prior experience leading audits and managing regulatory compliance is essential.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 1,200,000 to SSP 1,800,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based incentives and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

• Health insurance covering employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Transportation allowance for commuting to the Karonga plant.

Training

• Ongoing professional development through internal and external food safety courses.
• Access to Coca‑Cola’s global learning platform for leadership and technical training.
• Mentorship programs with senior quality experts.

Working Environment

The role is based at the modern Coca‑Cola bottling facility in Karonga, offering a safe, collaborative, and technologically advanced workplace. Employees benefit from a supportive culture that values diversity, innovation, and continuous improvement, with state‑of‑the‑art laboratories and production lines that adhere to international safety standards.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the Coca‑Cola Careers portal, attaching a current CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Coca‑Cola Beverages Africa is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.