Dhana Bellamkonda

This role oversees the development and execution of quality assurance programs, conducts audits, manages supplier compliance, enhances employee food safety knowledge, monitors food safety protocols, and analyzes quality metrics data to ensure compliance and customer satisfaction.

• Orchestrated the development and execution of comprehensive quality assurance programs, aligning them meticulously with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Conducted rigorous internal quality assurance audits, systematically assessing and enhancing adherence to established Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and organizational quality standards.
• Spearheaded Primus GFS audits, achieving exceptional results with a perfect 100% score across all McLane Global locations, showcasing an unwavering commitment to global quality and food safety benchmarks.
• Conducted routine supplier audits, evaluating supplier performance, and managed compliance programs for co-packers and suppliers. Implemented corrective actions as needed, ensuring strict compliance with quality and safety protocols while establishing strong supplier relationships.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to establish and maintain stringent quality standards for all incoming materials and finished products.
• Enhanced employee food safety knowledge through structured training programs covering GMP, HACCP, SSOP, and effective communication strategies cultivating a strong commitment to food safety practices across all levels of the organization, fostering a culture focused on maintaining food safety standards,
• Continuously monitor and update food safety protocols to align with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives throughout the organization.
• Analyzed data from quality metrics to identify trends and opportunities for improvement, driving targeted action plans based on findings.
• Implemented and managed an effective customer complaint management system, providing timely resolution and reporting monthly on emerging trends to enhance customer satisfaction.
• Conducted sensory evaluations of food products, including testing new product launches and first production run samples, to ensure compliance with quality standards and meet customer requirements.
• Conducted thorough reviews of home brand product labels, guaranteeing compliance with regulatory standards, and ensuring accuracy and transparency in product information.
• Demonstrated proficiency in managing document management portals, streamlining processes, and facilitating efficient documentation of quality assurance activities for improved organizational efficiency.

This role ensures assistance and supervision in achieving daily production activities and successful implementation of the SQF Code.

• Supervised a team of three QA technicians and seven sanitation technicians.
• Overseen and implemented the quality systems of a high-risk RTE facility to ensure alignment with both customer and regulatory standards.
• Led comprehensive training initiatives covering food safety, GMP, SQF, and HACCP, as well as auditing and CAPA procedures.
• Assisted the food safety and quality team in various aspects including risk analysis, HACCP plan implementation, traceability of finished products, Food Defense, Food Fraud, SQF compliance, addressing customer complaints, facilitating continuous improvement, and participating in internal and regulatory audits and reviews.
• Directed the inspection of incoming ingredients including random sampling of products and compliance with ingredient specification.
• Served as the primary contact for the Quality Assurance department in the absence of the QA Manager, liaising with external vendors and manufacturers, as well as internal teams such as production, R&D, and procurement.
• Proficient in managing HEB-OBPS (Vendor Management System) and COSTCO-AZZULE (Supply Chain Management system).
• Ensured timely and accurate testing of finished products through third-party labs, and effectively managed non-conforming products.
• Managed the label verification program to guarantee the accurate usage of labels throughout the manufacturing process.
• Regularly assessed the efficiency and effectiveness of the HACCP and food safety plans through activities like Traceability Exercises.
• Participated in Internal Audits and mock recalls while ensuring compliance to internal quality policies and applicable regulations through audits, observations.
• Took part in Internal Audits and mock recalls, ensuring adherence to internal quality policies and relevant regulations through thorough audits and observations.
• Accountable for reporting Quality Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and overseeing QA Hold and Release procedures.
• Managed the root cause analysis for non-conformities and customer complaints.
• Developed quality planning for multiple new product launches by verifying customer requirements and implementing in design and production.
• Reviewed daily quality and production records to ensure positive product release.
• Offered support for pest control efforts, coordinating with providers to ensure timely resolution of corrective actions.
• Conduct audits of the sanitation program (SSOP) to ensure alignment with GFSI and FDA standards.
• Reduced cross-contamination risks by training employees on proper cleaning techniques and equipment usage.

This position oversees internal auditing and attains BRC certification for the plant, ensuring consistent maintenance of quality standards. Additionally, it guarantees ongoing adherence to all business standards set by external manufacturers.

• Ensured efficient staffing, scheduling, and training of QA department to manage daily, weekly, and monthly responsibilities effectively.
• Proficient in Alchemy Systems training.
• Provided comprehensive training to new hires on Food Safety, GMP, HACCP, Allergen Control, Food Defense, Cross-contamination, Nut Free policy, and other Quality System programs.
• Revised and implemented new food safety and quality procedures.
• Spearheaded the implementation, delivery, and continuous improvement of developmental programs, performance management processes, and succession strategies.
• Utilized internal databases to manage company formulas, mixing instructions, and other product information.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams throughout product development stages to support commercialization and product launches.
• Reviewed product information to ensure compliance with internal and customer specifications.
• Conducted reviews of R&D formulas against the Bill of Materials (BOM) and all product labels.
• Worked closely with production supervisors, R&D, and operations manager to address food safety and quality issues before production runs.
• Reviewed daily production records and interfaced with customers, corporate, and third-party audits.
• Experienced with customer-specific production requirements for retailers like Walmart, Target, Wakefern, Albertsons, etc.
• Established Document Control procedures to ensure compliance with BRC Standards.
• Implemented Hold and Release Policy for quality control measures.
• Improved product quality by implementing rigorous testing processes and protocols.