Job Summary:
The Quality Management Lead provides strategic and operational leadership for Quality Assurance and Quality Control across seed operations, primarily corn and soybean. This role oversees final product quality, the Operations Quality Management System, and quality activities across field production, processing plants, laboratories, conditioning, packaging, storage, and distribution. The position drives process control, risk management, regulatory compliance, continuous improvement, and data-driven decision-making to meet customer expectations and company standards.

Duties/Responsibilities:
• Lead and maintain the Operations Quality Management System, establishing and overseeing quality processes and controls to ensure consistent execution and product quality.
• Oversee final product quality and lot release processes, ensuring seed products meet established quality standards and requirements before release.
• Establish and oversee field quality control processes and inspection programs to ensure product quality and genetic purity throughout seed production.
• Oversee quality control processes throughout seed conditioning and plant operations to ensure product quality is maintained and quality risks are effectively controlled.
• Ensure effective management of seed quality testing and laboratory analysis required to support quality decisions and lot release, whether performed through internal laboratory operations or external service providers.
• Guide specialized seed quality testing programs, including herbicide and biotechnology testing, and develop and implement new testing methods as needed.
• Translate regulatory, compliance, and business quality requirements into effective processes and controls and ensure their consistent implementation across Operations.
• Lead quality assurance and continuous improvement activities through trend analysis, projects, and process improvements across the seed production lifecycle.
• Oversee quality data management and analysis, monitoring trends and performance metrics to support product availability, quality decisions, and continuous improvement.
• Manage summer and winter grow-out programs and evaluate resulting performance data.
• Provide quality expertise and guidance to internal stakeholders and support customer service initiatives as needed.
• Support strategic projects and business initiatives in collaboration with Operations leadership and other corporate stakeholders.
• Develop and manage the Quality department budget and resources, ensuring effective resource allocation and cost competitiveness.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving capabilities.
• Strong knowledge of botany, biochemistry, herbicides, agricultural sciences, and seed production practices, with practical experience in seed production at both field and plant levels preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of seed quality systems, seed testing methodologies, and quality assurance practices.
• Understanding of seed regulatory requirements and industry policies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational, planning, and project management skills, with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities within established timelines and budgets.
• Strong leadership, coaching, team development, and employee management skills.
• Ability to build effective partnerships, influence stakeholders, and collaborate across functional teams and organizational levels.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make informed business recommendations.

Education and Experience:
• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or a related field required; Master's degree preferred.
• Five (5) or more years of experience in the seed industry or a related agricultural industry.
• Two (2) or more years of leadership or people management experience.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas preferred: seed production, field quality, laboratory operations, quality systems, or regulatory compliance.
• Must have a valid driver's license and meet MVR guidelines.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
• Establish performance goals, development plans, and succession planning activities for direct reports.
• Oversee the daily workflow and performance of the Quality team.
• Provide coaching, performance feedback, performance evaluations, and employee development opportunities.
• Manage employee relations matters in accordance with company policies and procedures.

Physical Requirements:
• Ability to work required business hours and additional hours as needed.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Overnight travel is required, typically once per month, with increased travel during the summer months, potentially on a weekly basis, averaging approximately 25% annually.