National Food Safety Operations Manager - Hawthorn East

We’ve been trusted to serve Aussie communities since 1914 and grown to become a top 30-listed on the ASX with over 115,000 team members and a portfolio of iconic brands. At Coles Group, you’ll not only get to make a difference to millions of Aussie lives—you’ll also get to see your impact.

About the team

The health, safety and wellbeing of our team members and customers is our priority. The Safety team are vital in upholding that. We raise awareness. We give support and guidance around best practices. And we work together to co-create a happier, safer, and more energised workplace.

About the team 

The health, safety and wellbeing of our team members and customers is our priority. The Safety team are vital in upholding that. We raise awareness. We give support and guidance for our operations teams and strive for best practices. And we work together to co-create a happier, safer, and more energised workplace. 

About the Role: 

Coles is seeking a dedicated and experienced National Food Safety Operations Manager to join our team. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for setting the strategy and ensuring food safety plans are implemented across more than 850 Supermarkets. In addition you will be required to provide guidance and expertise to Coles other brands including Liquor, Supply Chain and other emerging business.  

What you will be doing: 

• Develop and implement food safety policies and procedures across all Coles Supermarkets and other brands as required 
• Work closely with the Supermarkets State Safety teams to deliver improved food safety outcomes for customers. 
• Liaise with State and Local Government food safety authorities and to resolve issues to ensure compliance to food safety standards 
• Providing SME guidance and support to the State Safety Teams and Operations teams 
• Lead and manage critical national food safety programs across all sites including pest control, hygiene audit and food safety audit programs and recall/withdrawal system 
• Stay updated with the latest food safety regulations and industry best practices. 
• Provide training and education to staff on food safety protocols and procedures. 
• Investigate and resolve any food safety incidents or issues promptly in conjunction with other functions in Coles 
• Represent Store Operations on various governance and issue resolution forums (eg Food Safety Steer Co and Code Red) 

About you: 

• 10-15 years proven experience in a food safety management or quality systems role, preferably within the retail or FMCG sectors 
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and standards. 
• Demonstrated influencing skills and experience in managing senior stakeholders across a range of operations and commercial functions 
• Excellent leadership and team management skills 
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 

What’s in it for you?

• Flexible working options: We know that work is only one part of your life, so we actively encourage a positive work-life balance and provide hybrid working options to help you achieve it.
• Office perks: Take advantage of our gym facility and fitness classes, free parking, BBQ area, mini-Coles supermarket, fooderie hub where you can sample new products before they hit the shelves, school holiday program and so much more when you come in.
• Discounts: Eligible team members receive 5% discount all year round on your Supermarket and Liquor online and in-store purchases. We also offer additional periods of double discount (10%) at various times throughout the year. As well as hotdeals exclusive to team members that translate into additional savings.
• Reward through recognition: Give and receive recognition, linked to our Coles values, through our digital recognition platform ‘mythanks’. You can accumulate points to redeem in the online shop for exciting gifts and electronic gift cards from an extensive range of retailers.
• Opportunities for learning and development: No matter where you start within our diverse business, you’ll have experiences, exposure, and education to satisfy you. Discover and explore a variety of career development programs and job-specific training.
• Paid parental leave: We understand how important your life outside work is and offer permanent team members paid parental leave to support you in balancing work and family.
• Investment in your future: Our annual team member share plan offer allows eligible team members to make regular pre-tax salary sacrifice deductions to purchase Coles Group shares.

About the recruitment process

We’re continuing to build a gender equitable team, and a culture that is just as diverse, inclusive and welcoming as the communities we serve. We are committed to creating a workplace that is safe and respectful for our team. We encourage applications from people of all ages, cultures (including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples), abilities, sexual orientation and gender identities.

We’re happy to adjust our recruitment process to support candidates with disability. For further information and additional contact details visit the ‘Our Recruitment Process’ section of our careers site or email inclusionrecruitment@coles.com.au

Job ID: 139381

Employment Type: Full time