Food Safety Manager

Food Safety Manager

The Food Safety Manager plays a key role in safeguarding food safety, quality, and compliance across the BWG retail estate. Reporting to the Technical Manager, this position leads supplier assurance, store support, regulatory compliance, food safety communication, and cross‑functional collaboration to maintain high standards and protect consumer health and brand reputation.

Responsibilities of this role include the following:

• Oversee the supplier approval programme using a risk‑based approach; conduct and manage supplier audits and maintain the BWG Approved Supplier List

• Maintain and continually enhance BWG’s centrally controlled Food Safety Management System (FSMS) and retail quality systems

• Support food safety system development across additional BWG departments

• Provide expert advice to stores, Fresh Food Advisors, and sales teams on EHO/HSE issues

• Work with external auditing partners to manage and improve internal audit programmes

• Develop and deliver legally compliant food safety training for retail teams and other departments

• Act as Recall Coordinator for all food withdrawals and recalls from FSAI and suppliers, ensuring swift and effective action

• Approve BWG own‑brand labels for prepacked retail goods in collaboration with Marketing, Trading, and suppliers

• Manage monthly allergen data updates and allergen‑related systems

• Lead the investigation and resolution of food safety customer complaints and analyse trends

• Liaise with organisations such as the Coeliac Society, Irish Organics Association, and Reformulation Programme

• Manage key service providers

• Provide clear communication and guidance on legislation updates, best practices, and emerging food safety issues

• Deputise for the Technical Manager at meetings with FSAI, HSE, and other stakeholder groups, when necessary

• Lead food safety–related projects and contribute to ongoing business improvements

• Carry out additional duties as required to support the technical function

The ideal candidate should possess the following:

• Retail experience is desirable

• Diploma/Degree in Food Safety, Microbiology, or equivalent

• Strong understanding of HACCP and food safety requirements

• Food safety auditing experience

• Skilled trainer with confident presentation ability

• Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills

• Competent in Word, Excel, PowerPoint

• Self‑motivated, proactive, and adaptable