Food Safety & Compliance Specialist

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and independent Food Safety & Compliance Specialist to ensure all imported food products meet Canadian regulatory requirements. This role is responsible for overseeing compliance, conducting supplier audits (domestic and international), and supporting food safety programs across the organization. The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of Canadian food regulations and experience working with Asian food products and suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with all applicable Canadian food regulations, including those set by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Monitor regulatory updates and ensure internal policies remain compliant
• Review and approve product labels (Nutrition Facts Tables, ingredient lists, allergen declarations, and bilingual requirements)
• Maintain Preventive Control Plans (PCPs) and food safety programs
• Audits, Inspections, and Corrective Actions: Coordinate and support internal and external audits, regulatory inspections, supplier assessments and audits (domestic and international), and branch compliance reviews. Lead or support investigations of quality deviations, non-conformances, customer complaints, product holds, recalls, food safety incidents, and regulatory observations, including the development, implementation, and follow-up of corrective and preventive actions.
• Manage supplier documentation, including specifications, certifications, and import records
• Maintain good relationships with suppliers and customers
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (procurement, logistics, sales)
• Provide training and guidance on food safety and regulatory requirements
• Other duties assigned

Key Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain technical regulations to non-technical stakeholders
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel and Word)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Collaborative team player with strong stakeholder management and cross-functional communication skills
• Ability to interpret and apply technical and regulatory information
• Cultural awareness and ability to work effectively across global teams
• Leadership mindset with the ability to drive compliance initiatives
• Flexibility to accommodate global time zones and travel as required

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Foods & Nutrition Studies, Biological Sciences, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience in food safety, quality assurance, or regulatory compliance
• Solid knowledge of Canadian food regulations and import requirements
• Experience with HACCP and Preventive Control Plans (PCP)
• Experience using Word, Excel, and MS Office programs
• Experience with supplier audits and international travel

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Asian food products and manufacturing processes
• Familiarity with global food safety standards (e.g., SQF, BRCGS, FSSC 22000)
• Fluency in French, Japanese, Chinese or Korean is an asset
• Experience with traceability or compliance systems

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Leadership mindset with the ability to drive compliance initiatives
• Cross-cultural communication and collaboration skills

Work Environment & Requirements

• Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally for supplier audits
• Comfortable working across different time zones and with global teams
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Core Values

• Integrity and accountability
• Commitment to food safety and quality
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Professionalism and sound judgment