The primary role of the Manager Supplier Quality Assurance is to lead a team of category experts in the execution of the MQM standard. This role will manage associates who are responsible for providing subject matter expertise to our Mars Petcare sites as well as our supply base. This role will work cross functionally with key business stakeholders and will provide quality support to industry suppliers. This role will engage with multiple functions such as Commercial, Research & Development, and Manufacturing to assure all suppliers are capable of meeting Mars Standards and providing high quality materials to the business. This leader is accountable for the "Supplier Management" and "Supplier Risk Assessment & Approval" sections of the MQM standard. In addition, this role will have accountability for delivering metrics related to supplier performance events, MQM compliance, and drive supplier compliance to Mars Quality and Food Safety requirements. The objective is to ensure that we are delivering the best quality of products to our consumers. This role is a key interface between Suppliers and Sourcing managers. This individual is responsible for the delivery of exceptional business results in the following key areas of ingredients: 3 Development of High Performing Team 3 Complete external supplier assessments 3 Resolution of supplier assessment corrective actions 3 Proactively identify and mitigate quality risks in the supply chain Principal Accountabilities 3 3 Develop and lead a team of 7 talented and engaged Supplier Quality Assurance Associates that possess deep expertise in raw materials such as dry/wet animal proteins, grains and essentials. 3 Manage the continuous improvement process with suppliers to identify strengths and gaps that need to be addressed in order to deliver in-specification material to all Mars NA Petcare sites. 3 Manage cross segment relationships to share best practices and streamline enterprise processes 3 Support new product launches and line extensions by conducting supplier risk assessments in a timely manner. 3 Accountable for maintaining the approved suppliers list for raw materials. 3 Assure that supplier reviews are conducted according to MQM standard. Job Specifications/Qualifications 3 Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Engineering or related technical field is required. 3 8+ years of experience in Quality and/or manufacturing in the Food Industry 3 The physical capability of working in a manufacturing environment is essential. Preferred Qualifications 3 Lead Auditor Certification 3 HACCP certification 3 10+ years of experience in the Food or Pet food manufacturing industry or regulatory compliance. 3 5+ years of people leadership 3 Experience in supplier quality