Senior Quality Assurance Manager Job Vacancy in Kigali, Rwanda – Manufacturing

Job Description

Position: Senior Quality Assurance Manager

Company: Bralirwa Ltd.

Location: Kigali, Rwanda

Experience: 5+ years in quality assurance within manufacturing

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Manufacturing

Department: Quality Assurance

Salary: SSP 1,500,000 – 2,500,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Bralirwa Ltd. is Rwanda’s leading beverage manufacturer and a subsidiary of Heineken International. Established in 1957, Bralirwa has grown into a diversified producer of beer, soft drinks, and bottled water, serving both local and regional markets. The company is committed to sustainable production, community development, and continuous innovation. With state‑of‑the‑art brewing facilities in Kigali and a robust distribution network across East Africa, Bralirwa offers a dynamic environment where employees can contribute to high‑impact projects that shape the future of the beverage industry in Rwanda. As part of its strategic growth plan, Bralirwa is expanding its quality assurance capabilities to ensure that every product meets the highest standards of safety, taste, and regulatory compliance. This expansion creates exciting career opportunities for professionals seeking to make a difference in a fast‑growing, internationally recognized organization.

Job Overview

The Senior Quality Assurance Manager will lead Bralirwa’s quality assurance function, overseeing all aspects of product quality, safety, and compliance across the manufacturing portfolio. Reporting directly to the Director of Operations, the role involves developing and implementing robust quality systems, managing a multidisciplinary team, and collaborating with production, R&D, and regulatory affairs to drive continuous improvement. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in safeguarding Bralirwa’s brand reputation, ensuring adherence to local and international standards, and supporting the company’s ambition to become a benchmark for excellence in the African beverage sector. This position offers a unique platform to influence strategic decisions, mentor talent, and contribute to Bralirwa’s mission of delivering premium beverages that delight consumers while upholding the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive Quality Management Systems (QMS) aligned with ISO 9001, HACCP, and local regulatory requirements.
• Lead, coach, and evaluate a team of quality engineers, auditors, and laboratory technicians to achieve departmental objectives.
• Conduct risk assessments and root‑cause analyses to address product deviations, implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) promptly.
• Collaborate with Production and R&D teams to integrate quality considerations into new product development and process optimization.
• Oversee internal and external audits, ensuring successful outcomes and continuous compliance.
• Manage supplier qualification and performance monitoring to guarantee raw material quality.
• Prepare and present quality performance reports to senior leadership, highlighting trends, KPIs, and improvement initiatives.
• Drive a culture of quality across the organization through training, communication, and employee engagement.

Required Skills

• Strong knowledge of food safety standards, ISO 9001, HACCP, and GMP.
• Proven leadership and team‑building abilities in a manufacturing environment.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management across cross‑functional teams.
• Advanced proficiency in quality software tools and statistical analysis (e.g., Minitab, SPC).
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines.

Education

The candidate must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, or a related discipline. A Master’s degree or professional certifications such as CQE (Certified Quality Engineer) or HACCP Practitioner are highly desirable.

Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive experience in quality assurance within the food and beverage manufacturing sector is required. Prior experience leading a quality team and managing large‑scale audit programs will be considered a strong advantage.

Salary

Bralirwa offers a competitive salary range of SSP 1,500,000 to SSP 2,500,000 per annum, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The compensation package includes performance‑based bonuses and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

• Health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision care.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Paid annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Transportation allowance for commuting within Kigali.

Training

• Continuous professional development through internal workshops and external certification programs.
• Access to industry conferences and seminars on quality and food safety.
• Mentorship opportunities with senior leaders across Bralirwa’s global network.

Working Environment

The role is based at Bralirwa’s modern manufacturing campus in Kigali, featuring state‑of‑the‑art laboratories, production lines, and collaborative workspaces. Employees enjoy a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment that encourages innovation and career growth.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through Bralirwa’s online career portal at https://www.bralirwa.com/careers. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Bralirwa Ltd. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are valued, respected, and given the chance to thrive regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or background.