At Nestlé, we are the world’s largest food and beverage company and are driven by our purpose to enhance quality of life and contribute to a healthier future. We are looking for a Quality Assurance Manager to lead the Quality function at our Harare operations, ensuring world‑class standards in food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. This role is critical in protecting our consumers, brands, and license to operate by ensuring full adherence to Nestlé Quality Management Systems and local statutory requirements.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Quality Assurance
- Closing Date: 2026-04-29
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of Quality Management Systems (QMS) in line with Nestlé standards, ISO, HACCP, and FSMS requirements.
- Ensure full compliance with food safety, quality, WHO Code, and regulatory requirements across all site operations.
- Act as the site lead for food safety incidents, quality deviations, and crisis preparedness and management.
- Drive audit readiness and lead internal, external, customer, and regulatory audits, ensuring timely closure of findings.
- Oversee laboratory operations, product quality monitoring, sensory evaluation, shelf‑life management, and net content control.
- Partner closely with Production, Supply Chain, Engineering, SHE, and HR to embed quality and food safety culture across the site.
- Lead, coach, and develop the Quality Assurance team to build strong technical capability and succession.
- Provide clear quality performance reporting, insights, and recommendations to factory and regional stakeholders.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in food science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related scientific discipline.
- Minimum 5-8 years’ experience in Quality Assurance within a manufacturing or FMCG environment, with proven leadership experience.
- Strong technical knowledge of FSMS, HACCP, ISO standards, GMP, and regulatory compliance.
- Demonstrated experience in managing audits and engaging regulatory authorities.
- Strong leadership, influence, and stakeholder management skills.
- Structured, analytical mindset with the ability to drive continuous improvement under pressure.
How to Apply
About the Company
Nestlé Zimbabwe (Private) Limited has been a pivotal force in the country's food and beverage industry for over six decades, operating under the Nestlé East and Southern Africa Region (ESAR) Limited. Since commencing operations in 1960, the company has been dedicated to delivering quality nutrition to families throughout Zimbabwe. It manufactures and distributes a diverse array of products, including cereals, coffee, dairy, and infant nutrition, catering to essential consumer needs. With two factories situated in Harare, Nestlé Zimbabwe produces renowned brands such as NESTUM, CERELAC, NESCAFÉ, and Cremora, contributing significantly to local employment with over 200 individuals across its operations. The company remains committed to enhancing the quality of life and fostering a healthier future for communities across Zimbabwe.
Providing quality nutrition to Zimbabwean families since 1960.
Website: https://www.nestle-esar.com/aboutus/esar/zimbabwe
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Quality Assurance Manager role in Zimbabwe?
A degree in Food Science, Industrial Chemistry, or a related engineering field is usually essential for this role. Professional certifications in quality management systems like ISO 9001 or HACCP are highly valued and often expected in the FMCG sector.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Quality Assurance Manager in a manufacturing setting in Zimbabwe?
Daily tasks involve overseeing quality control processes, conducting audits, and managing non-conformances to ensure product safety and quality standards. You would also be responsible for developing and implementing quality management systems, training staff, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
What are the typical work culture and professional expectations for a manager in a large multinational company in Zimbabwe?
Professionalism, adherence to international standards, and strong communication skills are highly valued in such environments. Managers are often expected to be proactive, results-oriented, and capable of leading diverse teams effectively within a structured corporate framework.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Quality Assurance Manager within the FMCG sector in Zimbabwe?
Successful Quality Assurance Managers can typically advance to roles such as Head of Quality, Operations Manager, or even regional quality leadership positions. Further specialisation in supply chain quality or product development is also possible, leveraging extensive industry experience within the sector.
What typical benefits packages (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can one expect for a managerial role at a large company in Zimbabwe?
Managerial roles usually come with comprehensive benefits including competitive medical aid, pension contributions, and generous annual leave allowances. Some companies also offer performance bonuses, company vehicles, or fuel allowances, which are standard for senior positions in Zimbabwe.
Beyond a CV, what specific aspects do Zimbabwean employers look for during the application and interview process for a QA Manager role?
Employers seek demonstrable leadership skills, a proven track record in quality system implementation, and strong problem-solving abilities. Cultural fit, local industry understanding, and the ability to navigate regulatory environments in Zimbabwe are also critical considerations for such roles.