QA Team Lead

Kō wai mātou? Who are we?

Zespri is more than simply the world’s single-largest marketer of kiwifruit. We like to think of ourselves as fruit on a mission and as rebels with a cause: to help people, communities and the environment around the world thrive through the goodness of kiwifruit. We are proudly the world’s largest marketer of kiwifruit, selling kiwifruit in more than 50 countries. We work with around 2,800 New Zealand and 1,500 international growers and post-harvest companies to source the best-quality Zespri Kiwifruit which we supply through our distribution partners to wholesale and retail customers. We are one of New Zealand’s best-known international brands, dedicated to creating sustainable long-term value for growers.  

He aha te mahi? What's the role?

The QA Team Lead will provide leadership and management for one of the three Quality Assessor teams within the Zespri Global Quality Team. This role is crucial for ensuring the day-to-day operations of the team are executed efficiently and effectively.

Key accountabilities include:

• Coordinate the QA team to ensure efficient execution of audit plans, including product quality and cool store assessments.
• Collaborate with various managers to resolve product quality and compliance issues, and improve audit processes. 
• Act as a contact point for kiwifruit industry quality teams, effectively communicating issues to Zespri Global Quality and other Supply Chain teams. 
• Manage the Quality Assessor team, ensuring all members are approved and competent to deliver compliance programs. 
• Implement new processes and systems within the QA team and support the QA Training Coordinator with the Zespri internal Product Issue Notification System (PINS). 
• Lead the annual review of Zespri QA procedures and associated documents. 
• Ensure optimal resource utilization by assigning facilities based on QA approvals, workload, and geographical efficiency. 
• Track, trend, and analyse QA Audit Programme data in real time, addressing any gaps identified. 
• Keep the Quality Assessor team informed of all new developments, changes, and risks in the audit field. 
• Ensure Quality and Product Assessors are aware of changes to Zespri Systems and the Quality System throughout the season. 
• Manage the performance of the QA team through regular meetings, annual reviews, and development plans. 

Ko wai koe? Who are you?

We are seeking an excellent people leader with: 

• Background in Zespri Phyto QA and/or proven Kiwifruit Quality Industry experience (preferred). 
• Strong understanding of Quality Management Systems and compliance standards (e.g., Global GAP and GFSI/BRC). 
• Knowledge of audit and compliance programs. 
• Sound understanding of product handling and storage practices, especially for fruit, fresh produce, or food. 
• Good understanding of export regulatory requirements, including MPI Phytosanitary certification requirements. 
• Line or team management experience as well as leadership or supervisor training is advantageous. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite – Word, Excel, PowerPoint. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop and maintain good working relationships under pressure.
• Strong decision-making skills, time management, and high personal integrity. 

He aha e tika ai a Zespri? Why Zespri?

Our people are what makes our culture so irresistible and uniquely Zespri. We are a passionate and mighty team of 850+ employees in 23 different locations globally. Working at Zespri is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, culture-driven environment unlike any other. We want people who share our values of making it happen, creating real connections, and leaving a legacy. Join us in shaping our future and be part of a truly unique organisation.

• Competitive overall remuneration package, including a Short-Term Incentive.
• FlexWELL flexible work ethos; WFH and the office.
• Additional paid annual leave day per year (Zespri Day).
• Additional paid volunteer day to volunteer within your community (Volunteer Time).
• Global Life and Permanent Disability Insurance.
• Group Medical Insurance benefits.
• Convenient Mount Maunganui office location, with free onsite parking.
• Your daily dose of Vitamin C with free kiwifruit!

Tono mai inaianei! Apply Now! Applications close Sunday 20 July 2025.

At Zespri, we understand the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences, and a fair hiring process is the first step to getting there. We want to attract a diverse range of people and encourage everyone from all backgrounds and walks of life to apply. Please let us know if you need any assistance or reasonable adjustments to take part in the recruitment and selection process by reaching out to our Talent Acquisition team via email at careers@zespri.com.