Pooja Khanna

Over five years of QA Management and eleven years of QA experience in the food industry. Have great expertise in implementation of GFSI Standards SQF, BRC and FSSC22000. Completion of BRC lead auditor, HACCP, Advanced Food safety, First aid CPR, WHIMS certification.

Advance

Diploma in Food science Technology from Centennial College.

Post Graduate

Diploma in Food and Nutrition Management from George Brown College. Well versed with softwares including Microsoft, Epay, Point Click care, Bridge, CBORD, EPIC, Sysco demand, meal suite, Flexibake and NAV.

Quality Assurance Manager at Ozery Bakery (2021-12 – Present)

Implemented and maintained Food Safety and Quality management programs in accordance with BRC, CFIA, FDA standards, and Health Canada guidelines, ensuring compliance and continuous improvement. Led QA and sanitation teams to uphold rigorous standards in food safety and quality control. Achieved cost reductions by transitioning from external laboratory and calibration testing to in-house testing and calibration of devices.

Conducted and facilitated management review meetings and led third-party compliance audits and inspections, including BRC, Health and Safety, Organic, Non-GMO, Kosher, and Gluten Free certifications. Developed threat assessment and vulnerability assessment plans to enhance security and preparedness. Designed and implemented an effective training program covering personal hygiene, good manufacturing practices, allergen control, pest management, pre-operational inspections, new product introduction, new processes, sanitation procedures, and internal audits.

• Evaluated training effectiveness through written quizzes, work performance assessments, on-the-job evaluations, and audits.

Food Service Manager at Rekai Centre (2021-05 – 2021-12)

Directed all aspects of food preparation, including menu planning, development, operational planning, budgeting, costing, and inventory management. Managed recruitment, hiring, scheduling, and general administrative duties. Ensured high client satisfaction through excellent client relationships and superior service and menu options.

Achieved compliance with Compass' Quality Assurance standards, Occupational Health and Safety Act, and WHMIS regulations. Conducted regular workplace inspections and provided WHMIS training to staff, ensuring effective management of safety protocols.

Quality Assurance Manager at Shasha Bread Co (2019-08 – 2020-09)

Collaborated directly with the President, CEO, R&D, VP Sales, Maintenance, Purchasing, Logistics, and Production Manager to ensure seamless business operations. Updated, enforced, monitored, and continuously improved the Food Safety and Quality Program in accordance with BRC, CFIA, FDA standards, and Health Canada guidelines. Facilitated management review meetings and led third-party compliance audits and inspections, including BRC, Health and Safety, Organic, Non-GMO, Kosher, Halal, and Gluten Free certifications.

QA Manager at Sweets from the Earth (2018-10 – 2019-08)

Managed the Food Safety and Quality program according to FSSC 22000 Standards and led the company's first GFSI audit. Ensured compliance of documents, procedures, products, and raw materials for segregated Nut Free and Gluten Free facilities. Developed an electronic system for the Supplier Approval Program.

SQF Practitioner promoted from QA technician at Give and Go Prepared Foods (2014-09 – 2018-09)

• Managed and maintained the SQF (Safe Quality Food) and HACCP compliance program.
• Conducted ongoing training in food safety, quality systems, GMPs, and pest control.
• Recommended systems for audits, wrote audit plans, and coordinated scheduling.
• Conducted food safety and food quality audits, ensuring follow-up on corrective actions.
• Managed documentation, reporting, and closure of compliance issues.
• Evaluated and approved new raw and packaging materials and material suppliers in collaboration with PD and Purchasing departments.
• Maintained and managed the supplier approval program.
• Supported and participated in various projects related to products, ingredients, and materials, including plant trials and first production runs.
• Participated in annual food safety audits, presenting vendor approval programs and customer complaints programs.
• Conducted investigations regarding customer complaints, ensuring timely communication and resolution.
• Prepared corrective action reports and customer response letters.
• Successfully resolved customer complaints and improved food safety and quality issues.

QA Technician at Toute Sweet Cake & Pastry (2013-09 – 2014-06)

QC Assistant at Pacific Point Foods (2013-06 – 2013-09)

Post Graduate Diploma in Food and Nutrition Management – George Brown College (2020-09 – 2021-05)

Advanced Diploma in Food Science Technology – Centennial College (2011-09 – 2013-04)

Post Graduate Diploma in International Business Operations – IGNOU (2010-07 – 2011-04)

Bachelors in Home Science Hons. – Lady Irwin College, Delhi University (2007-07 – 2010-04)