Job Description

Who we are:IRCA Group, an Advent portfolio company, was founded in Italy in 1919, and it is a leading international B2B provider of high-quality semi-finished ingredients such as chocolate, decorations, creams, inclusions, nuts and pistachios, pastry mixes, gelato ingredients, and other essential solutions for industrial clients or other independent artisanal producers. With more than 2.400 employees, 22 production facilities worldwide, and €1 billion in revenues, IRCA Group has a solid track record of growth and international expansion.
The role: For our Belgian site in Kessel we are looking for a quality‑driven and proactive Quality Specialist to join our Quality team in the Kessel site. In this role, the ideal candidate will play a key part in promoting a strong quality culture and ensuring that all the standards and certifications are consistently met across the organization. You will take ownership of our quality systems, collaborate closely with Operations, and maintain a strong presence on the production floor to support correct implementation and continuous improvement. This position is ideal for someone with solid experience in quality management who wants to drive excellence, ensure compliance, and contribute to the development of robust processes.

What will you do:

• Promote quality awareness and guide the team toward achieving high, requirement‑based quality standards
• Co‑develop, implement, and audit quality guidelines and systems (BRC, UTZ/RA, RSPO, Kosher, Halal, Riskplaza, customer‑specific standards)
• Manage the quality management system through the document management platform and ensure correct implementation on the production floor
• Maintain a strong operational presence to foster collaboration and support a quality‑focused working environment
• Execute administrative tasks, including customer questionnaires, portal management, registration form checks, calibrations, microbiological support, and supplier communication
• Monitor applicable legislation and regulations and update internal procedures accordingly
• Organize or support internal and external audits and follow up on corrective actions
• Manage—or act as backup for—product specifications for existing items and new developments
• Oversee the traceability system for finished products, raw materials, and packaging
• Support the handling and investigation of quality complaints

Requirements:

• Background: Bachelor’s or Master's degree in a food-related field or equivalent through experience and demonstrated analytical ability
• Experience: Several years of relevant experience within a quality department, ideally in the food industry
• Professional Skills: Knowledge of quality and food safety systems (BRC, RA/UTZ, Kosher, Halal, RSPO), process control, labeling standards, and risks associated with food raw materials
• IT Skills: Proficient with MS Office and familiar with ERP systems such as SAP
• Language Skills: Fluent in English and Dutch; used regularly for communication with customers and suppliers
• Soft Skills: Analytical, structured, and problem‑solving mindset; hands‑on, stress‑resistant, communicative, creative, and results‑oriented. Enjoys working in a production environment and has a strong affinity for chocolate

IRCA fosters a dynamic environment, valuing different perspectives and international experiences, offering a stimulating context. We promote professional growth and career opportunities locally and internationally. With locations worldwide, we offer the chance to work on international projects, collaborate across cultures, and gain a global perspective. If you are looking for stimulating challenges and the chance to contribute your ideas for process improvement in an ever-growing company, IRCA is the right place. We welcome applications from candidates of all genders, backgrounds, identities, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, parental responsibilities, age, religion, or belief. We believe in equal opportunities for all and ensure that our hiring process complies with the highest standards of non-discrimination and inclusivity. IRCA Group is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone can be their authentic selves, reach their full potential, and feel a true sense of belonging. Join us in creating a workplace where diversity is valued, and everyone can thrive.