For more than 115 years, Ferrara has created sugar confections that enable moments of sweetness, celebration, and connection for candy lovers of all generations. Today, the company is the #1 sugar confectioner in the United States. Ferrara boasts a passionate team of nearly 9,000 employees creating and delivering hundreds of products sold under 20 popular brands like Brach’s®, NERDS®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, and Trolli® to more than 66 million U.S. households annually and popular Dori snacking products under brands such as Dori, Gomets, Pettiz, and Yogurte 100 in Brazil. Additionally, Jelly Belly, known world-wide for its confections, was acquired in November of 2023.

Director, Supply Chain Quality

Job Location: ​Chicago​

Want to make an impact?

The Director, Supply Chain Quality will oversee the worldwide Supplier audit/qualification for the organization including gaps related to all aspects of supplier quality (e.g., quality systems, people), and compliance, continuous ongoing innovation and improvements. The role oversees contract manufacturing ensuring that they are qualified and meet Ferrara quality standards, complaints reduction targets etc. In addition, the role oversees all aspects of the distribution centers’ quality function ensuring Co-man products are released in a timely fashion and the DCs meet Ferrara quality standards.  The leader will also oversee the specifications group.

 

This position reports to the Head of Quality, Regulatory and Food Safety.

 

The role is based in Chicago, IL.
 

Ways you will make a difference

  • Define, implement, and audit Ferrara Quality Standards for Suppliers globally
  • Define, implement, and audit Ferrara Quality Standards for Contract-manufacturers and packers globally
  • Define, implement, and audit Ferrara Quality Standards for Distribution Centers/3PL
  • Coach and develop high performing teams
  • Own and update the mock recall system
  • Ensure supplier and contract manufacturer compliance with all Ferrara specifications for raw, pack, semi-finished and finished goods specifications
  • Face complex issues that differ from those typically faced in the industry with an expectation of identifying new and innovative solutions to highly complex issues

Skills that will make you successful

  • Proven leadership abilities directing and developing a high performing team with a clear vision and a mindset of accountability
  • Strong interpersonal skills (communication, coaching, setting expectations, providing feedback)
  • Demonstrated problem solving and decision-making skills
  • Comprehensive business acumen in managing and improving operations, team performance, communication, and processes
  • Knowledge of budgeting, procurement, and cost control 
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office programs including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint 

Experiences that will support your success

  • Bachelor's degree required with an advanced technical degree or MBA preferred
  • 10+ years of relevant experience including progressive responsibilities in the fast moving consumer goods industry
  • Experience with FSMA (including Preventive Controls, FSVP, Sanitary Transport, and Intentional Adulteration); HACCP/HARPC plan design, measurement, documentation, & training required
  • HACCP certification required. FSMA PCQI and GFSI (BRC, SQF or FSSC 22000) certifications preferred

Ferrara’s success in industry-leading innovation has been driven by deep consumer insights, strong retailer co-creation and partnerships, and a dedication to diversity of thought, experience, and people. A privately held company, Ferrara has its global headquarters in Chicago and an operational network of more than 27 locations in North America, Brazil, and China that includes manufacturing, distribution, sales, and R&D facilities. Ferrara is a privately held Ferrero related company. Learn more at www.ferrara.com or www.linkedin.com/company/ferrara-.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, employment decisions and opportunities at Ferrara will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil union status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, military or veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic information, pregnancy (childbirth or related medical condition), or on any other basis prohibited by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.