Guided Search Partners (GSP)
Guided Search Partners is an Executive Search firm built on Trust, Transparency, Specialization, and Long-term Relationships.
We connect high-performing professionals with organizations that value people, performance, and growth—helping leaders find roles where they can make an impact and build meaningful careers.

About the Opportunity

We’re partnering with a family-owned pet food manufacturer seeking a Vice President of FSQA to lead food safety and quality across eight sites in the eastern half of the United States. This is a succession-driven opening tied to a retirement, and the company is looking for a leader who can step in and continue building on an established foundation.

The FSQA system is in place, but the organization is evolving and looking for an agent of change who can help take the team and culture to the next level. This role is focused on strengthening FSQA leadership, developing the team, and building an A+ food safety and quality culture in partnership with manufacturing. The company produces cat and dog food and treats across multiple formats and also supports co-manufacturing and private label work.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as the point person for all FSQA matters across the company.

• Provide leadership across 8 sites.

• Lead and develop the FSQA organization, including direct leadership of the Sr Director of Quality and 2 QA Directors.

• Support and strengthen FSQA culture across the business.

• Partner closely with manufacturing in a role that is viewed as a true partnership.

• Help evolve an already established food safety and quality system.

• Drive high standards and accountability across the FSQA function.

• Mentor the team and help elevate overall capability.

• Stand firm for quality while working collaboratively across the organization.

Who You Are

You are a high-energy FSQA leader who knows how to balance standards with partnership. You bring accountability, mentorship, and a strong presence, and you are comfortable working hand in hand with manufacturing while still standing up for quality. This role requires someone who can lead people, strengthen culture, and help move an established system forward.

Preferred Experience & Attributes

• BS degree preferred, but not required as a hard rule.

• Experience does not need to come from a current VP title; Director or regional-level experience may be considered.

• Multi-site leadership experience across at least 3 sites.

• GFSI experience, specifically SQF.

• Food industry experience required; pet food experience is not required.

• FDA and regulatory knowledge required.

• USDA interaction is limited to exports, and there is a team supporting that area.

• High energy.

• High standards and accountability.

• Team-oriented leadership style.

• Strong mentoring ability.

• Able to stand firm on quality while understanding the importance of partnership.

Why This Role Matters

This is the senior FSQA leadership role for the company and carries visibility across the organization. The business has a strong foundation in place, but this hire will be responsible for helping the team and FSQA culture continue to evolve. With eight sites, a total team of 35, and direct connection to leadership, this role offers the opportunity to make a real impact.

The company is family owned, growing, and reinvesting in the business. There is no private equity or investor influence, approvals for capital are accessible, and the company is positioned to support improvement and growth. This role offers the chance to lead a critical function in an environment where decisions can be made and progress can happen.