Syed Saad Ahmed

• Conducted supplier audits in Vietnam, Thailand, China, Egypt, Brazil, Turkey, Indonesia, Philippines, Srilanka & other countries, Also maintaining food safety and quality management operations.
• Committee Member, Mycotoxins Subcommittee, ASTA (American Spice Trading Association) ,Attended ASTA conferences in United States since year 2020 .
• Working on suppliers and product sourcing developments for raw materials specially USDA & EU certified spices and blends and ensuring product compliances as per Country of Export
• Supplier Hunting and Suppliers Auditing as per Supplier Approval Programs mainly as per USDA organic (NOP), Eu organics, BRCGS Food safety issue 9, FSSC V.5.1, IFS and SQF guidelines.
• Successfully identified and onboarded 50+ new suppliers across multiple countries, increasing the company's supplier diversity and reducing supply chain dependencies.
• Implemented standardized audit processes, resulting in improved
Supplierlier compliance and 99% reduction in quality-related issues.
• Negotiated favorable terms with key suppliers, achieving cost savings of 500k-600k/usd annually while maintaining product quality standards.
• Played a pivotal role in expanding the company's international presence by establishing strategic partnerships with suppliers in emerging markets.

International Experience:

• Traveled extensively to various countries for supplier audits and supplier hunting, gaining firsthand knowledge of diverse business cultures and supply chain practices.
• Demonstrated adaptability and cultural awareness while navigating international business environments.
• Developed a comprehensive understanding of global sourcing trends and market dynamics across different regions.
• Committee Member, Mycotoxins Subcommittee, ASTA (American Spice Trading Association) ,Attended ASTA conferences in United States since year 2020 .
• Implemented robust quality assurance protocols, mitigating risks and ensuring consistent adherence to industry standards.
• Managed budgets and resources effectively, optimizing resource allocation to maximize project outcomes.

Dedicated and results-driven Quality Assurance Manager with a proven track record in ensuring optimal food safety management and quality control within agricultural sector. Proficient in implementing ISO and Codex standards, with expertise in food testing methodologies. Adept at leading audits, including three successful audits for BRC Food Safety Issue 8 and 9 with AA grades, as well as certifications in FSSC v.5, halal, and kosher standards. Additionally, recognized for contributing as diligent researcher in field. Passionate about upholding highest standards of quality and safety in food production environments.

Achieved ahigh level of customer satisfaction by addressing concerns promptly and providing accurate information regarding product quality and safety measures in place.

Provided guidance on improved quality control measures to increase customer satisfaction

Conducted root cause analysis for any identified non-conformance events, leading to effective implementation of preventive action plans in future operations

Increased company-wide commitment to food safety culture by fostering an environment that prioritized open dialogue around improvements and challenges faced in this area

Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others

Exercised leadership capabilities by successfully motivating and inspiring others

Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications

Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations

• Conducted comprehensive inspections and quality control assessments of food products according to regulatory standards, client specifications, and internal protocols.
• Utilized advanced testing methods and equipment to analyze samples for microbiological, chemical, and physical properties, ensuring compliance with safety and quality requirements.
• Collaborated closely with food manufacturers, suppliers, and regulatory agencies to address non-compliance issues, implement corrective actions, and prevent product recalls.
• Generated detailed inspection reports documenting findings, test results, and recommendations for process improvements and risk mitigation strategies.
• Provided technical expertise and support to internal teams and clients regarding food safety, hygiene practices, and quality assurance measures.
• Stayed abreast of industry trends, regulatory updates, and best practices in food quality control through continuous training and professional development initiatives.

• Conducted comprehensive research on mycotoxins, focusing on their presence in peanuts and various spices.
• Analyzed the levels of mycotoxins in local and international brand foods available in the local market, utilizing standardized testing methods and protocols.
• Collaborated with a team of researchers to collect samples, perform laboratory analyses, and interpret data to assess food safety risks.
• Contributed to the development of strategies for the control and mitigation of mycotoxin contamination in food products, emphasizing preventive measures and quality assurance practices.
• Presented research findings to supervisors and colleagues, effectively communicating scientific concepts and implications to diverse audiences.

Achievements:

• Successfully completed a research project on mycotoxins in peanuts and spices, providing valuable insights into food safety issues in the local market.
• Identified trends and patterns in mycotoxin contamination levels across different food brands, contributing to the enhancement of regulatory standards and industry practices.
• Demonstrated proficiency in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific research methodologies, earning recognition for attention to detail and accuracy.
• Developed recommendations for improving food quality control measures and implementing risk management strategies to minimize mycotoxin exposure in the food supply chain.