Role Overview for VP, Quality & Regulatory with a Food & Beverage Co. – Minneapolis, MN
JRG Partners is proud to represent a premier, rapidly growing food and beverage company based in the vibrant Minneapolis, MN area. We are seeking a visionary and strategic Vice President of Quality & Regulatory to join their executive leadership team. This is a critical role responsible for establishing and executing the company-wide vision for food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with a profound understanding of the food industry’s complexities, capable of driving a culture of excellence and ensuring that our products not only meet but exceed the highest standards of safety and quality.
As the VP of Quality & Regulatory, you will be the ultimate authority on all matters related to product quality and regulatory affairs. You will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer and will be instrumental in protecting the company’s brand reputation, mitigating risk, and enabling sustainable growth. This position requires a proactive, hands-on leader who can build and inspire a high-performing team, navigate the intricate landscape of federal and international regulations, and collaborate effectively across all business functions, including R&D, Operations, Supply Chain, and Marketing.
You will be responsible for developing and implementing robust quality management systems, fostering strong relationships with regulatory agencies, and leading the company through audits and any potential crises with confidence and expertise. Your leadership will directly impact consumer trust, product innovation, and the overall success of the organization in a competitive marketplace.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Quality & Regulatory with a Food & Beverage Co. – Minneapolis, MN
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and implement a comprehensive, forward-thinking strategy for quality assurance and regulatory affairs that aligns with the company’s business objectives. Champion a world-class food safety culture throughout the entire organization, from the plant floor to the executive suite.
Regulatory Compliance & Affairs
Serve as the primary liaison with all regulatory agencies, including the FDA, USDA, and state/local health departments. Ensure strict compliance with all applicable laws and standards, including the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), labeling laws, and import/export requirements. Proactively monitor, interpret, and communicate emerging regulatory trends and risks to the leadership team.
Quality Management System (QMS) Oversight
Direct the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of all quality management systems. This includes HACCP plans, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), sanitation procedures (SSOPs), and environmental monitoring programs. Ensure all manufacturing facilities maintain and achieve GFSI certification (e.g., SQF, BRC).
Team Development & Leadership
Lead, mentor, and develop a multi-site team of quality and regulatory professionals. Foster a collaborative, accountable, and results-oriented environment. Establish clear performance metrics (KPIs) for the department and ensure the team has the resources and training necessary for success.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner closely with the R&D team to ensure food safety and quality are designed into new products from concept to commercialization. Collaborate with Operations and Supply Chain to resolve quality issues, implement corrective actions (CAPAs), and drive process improvements. Work with Marketing and Legal on claims substantiation and label compliance.
Supplier Quality Assurance
Develop and manage a robust supplier approval and performance monitoring program. Oversee supplier audits and ensure that all raw material and packaging suppliers meet the company’s stringent quality and safety specifications.
Crisis Management & Recall Leadership
Develop, maintain, and test a comprehensive crisis management and product recall plan. Act as the primary leader and decision-maker in the event of a significant quality issue or product recall, ensuring swift, effective action to protect consumers and the brand.
Data Analysis & Continuous Improvement
Utilize data analytics to track quality performance, identify trends, and pinpoint areas for improvement. Champion continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing to enhance product quality, reduce waste, and increase efficiency.
Budget & Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual budget for the Quality and Regulatory department, ensuring efficient allocation of resources to meet strategic goals.
Requirements for the VP, Quality & Regulatory with a Food & Beverage Co. – Minneapolis, MN
Educational Background
A Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, Biology, or a related technical field is required. A Master’s degree (MS or MBA) or Ph.D. is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in quality assurance and regulatory affairs within the food and beverage manufacturing industry. At least 7 years of experience in a senior leadership capacity (Director level or above) with multi-site management responsibilities.
Regulatory Expertise
Expert-level knowledge of FDA and USDA regulations is mandatory. Deep, practical experience with FSMA implementation is essential. PCQI and HACCP certifications are required.
GFSI Proficiency
Proven experience with Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) schemes, such as SQF or BRC, including implementation, maintenance, and audit management. Certified as an SQF Practitioner or equivalent is a strong plus.
Leadership & Management Skills
Demonstrated ability to lead, influence, and develop a large, geographically dispersed team. A track record of building strong, collaborative relationships and driving cultural change. Exceptional strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Communication Skills
Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively present complex information to diverse audiences, from plant employees to the Board of Directors and regulatory officials.
Technical Acumen
Strong understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, and food processing technologies. Experience with laboratory management, environmental monitoring, and statistical process control (SPC) is critical.
Business Acumen
Ability to understand business drivers and align quality and regulatory functions with overall company objectives. Experience with budget management and strategic planning is required.
Personal Attributes
High level of integrity and ethics. A proactive, decisive, and resilient leader who can thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Strong attention to detail and a passion for excellence.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package for this executive-level role, including:
Competitive Executive Compensation
An attractive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
Meaningful equity or long-term incentive plan (LTIP) participation.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
Paid Time Off
A generous vacation, holiday, and sick leave policy to support work-life balance.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuing education, industry conferences, and professional certifications.
Additional Perks
Executive-level life insurance, disability coverage, and access to wellness programs.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative quality and regulatory leader with a passion for the food and beverage industry and meet the qualifications outlined above, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your confidential resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment for the food and beverage sector. Learn more about our Food and Beverage Executive Search Practice and how we connect top talent with industry-leading companies.
