Job Description
Position: Quality Assurance Manager
Company: Unilever Somalia
Location: Luuq, Somalia
Experience: 5+ years in food manufacturing quality assurance
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry or related field
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Food & Beverage
Department: Quality Assurance
Salary: SSP 2,500,000 – SSP 4,000,000 per month
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
Unilever Somalia is a leading multinational consumer goods company with a strong commitment to sustainable growth and community development across the Horn of Africa. Operating under the global Unilever brand, the company produces a diverse portfolio of food, home care, and personal care products that reach millions of households. In Somalia, Unilever has established state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing facilities, robust supply chains, and collaborative partnerships with local farmers and distributors. The organization’s vision is to improve the quality of life for consumers while fostering economic empowerment, making it a top employer for ambitious professionals seeking impactful careers. As part of its strategic expansion, Unilever Somalia continuously invests in talent, technology, and training to maintain the highest standards of product safety, quality, and innovation. This commitment creates a dynamic environment where employees can contribute to the company’s legacy of excellence and drive meaningful change in the region.
With a focus on responsible sourcing, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility, Unilever Somalia aligns its operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The company’s presence in Luuq supports regional development by creating jobs, supporting local agriculture, and enhancing food security. Prospective candidates will join a forward‑thinking team that values diversity, integrity, and continuous improvement, offering a platform to shape the future of food safety and quality in Somalia. This role is a gateway to a rewarding career path within a globally recognized brand that prioritizes both consumer trust and employee growth.
Job Overview
The Quality Assurance Manager will lead Unilever Somalia’s quality assurance function at the Luuq manufacturing plant, ensuring that all food products meet stringent national and international safety standards. Reporting to the Regional Quality Director, the manager will develop, implement, and monitor quality systems, conduct internal audits, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This position plays a critical role in safeguarding consumer health, maintaining regulatory compliance, and upholding Unilever’s reputation for premium quality. The role offers a unique opportunity to influence product integrity, mentor a skilled QA team, and collaborate with cross‑functional departments such as Production, R&D, and Supply Chain. As part of the broader Unilever network, the manager will also contribute to global quality projects and share best practices across markets, reinforcing Unilever’s position as a leader in the Food & Beverage sector.
In addition to day‑to‑day responsibilities, the manager will be instrumental in preparing for external audits, managing corrective actions, and ensuring that all documentation complies with ISO 22000, HACCP, and local food safety regulations. The role demands a proactive mindset, strong analytical abilities, and the capacity to drive cultural change toward a quality‑first mindset throughout the organization. Successful candidates will be pivotal in supporting Unilever’s mission to deliver safe, nutritious, and high‑quality products to consumers across Somalia, thereby contributing to the nation’s broader economic and health objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and maintain the Quality Management System (QMS) in alignment with ISO 22000 and HACCP standards.
- Lead internal and supplier audits, identify non‑conformities, and oversee corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
- Monitor critical control points (CCPs) throughout production, ensuring real‑time compliance with safety parameters.
- Collaborate with R&D to validate new product formulations and ensure they meet quality specifications before launch.
- Train and mentor QA staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
- Prepare comprehensive quality reports for senior management and regulatory bodies.
- Manage documentation, record‑keeping, and traceability systems to support product recalls if necessary.
- Drive root‑cause analysis investigations and implement long‑term solutions to reduce defect rates.
Required Skills
- In‑depth knowledge of food safety regulations, ISO 22000, HACCP, and local Somali standards.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a data‑driven approach.
- Excellent communication skills for cross‑functional collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
- Leadership experience in managing QA teams and driving performance improvements.
- Proficiency in quality management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight production deadlines.
- Fluency in English and Somali, both written and spoken.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) or HACCP Practitioner are highly desirable and will be considered an advantage during the selection process.
Experience
Applicants must have a minimum of five years of progressive experience in quality assurance within a food manufacturing environment, with at least two years in a supervisory or managerial capacity. Experience with multinational food companies and exposure to global quality standards will be valued.
Salary
The compensation package ranges from SSP 2,500,000 to SSP 4,000,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based incentives, health insurance, and other statutory benefits.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health and dental coverage.
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
- Annual performance bonus linked to quality metrics.
- Paid parental and annual leave.
- Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
- Transportation allowance for commuting to the Luuq plant.
Training
- On‑the‑job training in Unilever’s global quality standards and best practices.
- Access to certified external courses in food safety and quality management.
- Leadership development programs to enhance managerial competencies.
- Regular workshops on emerging food safety technologies.
- Mentorship opportunities with senior quality experts across Unilever’s network.
Working Environment
The role is based at Unilever’s modern manufacturing facility in Luuq, featuring advanced production lines, a dedicated QA laboratory, and a collaborative open‑plan office space. Employees enjoy a safe, inclusive, and supportive workplace that encourages innovation and respects work‑life balance. The company promotes a culture of diversity, where ideas from all backgrounds are valued and integrated into decision‑making processes.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through our online portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an initial interview. For detailed information about the application steps, please visit Somalia Job Search. We encourage early applications as the selection process may close once the position is filled.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Unilever Somalia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.