Quality Assessor Specialist

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?

Based in Bologna, the Quality Assessor Specialist (12 months Fixed Term) is an integral part of the European Quality team and reports to the Quality Team Lead, Italy. The primary responsibility is to promote industry development of Zespri quality systems through the development and implementation of audit plans with facilities, based on risk assessments. This individual is crucial in ensuring compliance with the Zespri quality system, including product, container, direct delivery, pre-pack, and food safety standards. The role is also responsible for training and following up with seasonal QAAs or external service providers.

Key Accountabilities

• Create an effective audit plan and perform audits at facilities according to the daily plan and Zespri procedures.
• Develop and maintain QC and QAA training materials.
• Lead the annual Quality Manual review process.
• Maintain quality tools.
• Identify risks and issues and communicate these to quality and technical management.
• Maintain accurate and complete audit logs for each facility, and complete them on time.
• Report on and follow up on quality issues identified from results reports or customer complaints.
• Collaborate with other Zespri teams as needed.
• Provide assistance to the broader ZGS Italy, France, and Greece teams as needed.
• Analyze audit data to monitor quality trends.
• Work as part of the QA team and provide support to other team members when required

Please note that this is a 12-months fixed term opportunity.

Ko wai koe? Who are you?

We are looking for a team player who is keen on learning and picking up industry knowledge. You will also fulfill the following criteria:

• Background in agricultural or scientific field.
• Fluent in Italian and English (both written and verbal)
• Strong problem solving skills: ability to analyze information to understand root causes and improve quality control measures.
• Excellent report writing skills.
• Experience in reviewing quality management systems and audit procedures.
• Confident with operating different computer software (Office 365, MS Teams, SAP).
• Possess a valid driving license and own vehicle.

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.
• FlexWELL flexible work ethos; WFH & the office.
• Life & Permanent Disablement insurance
• Meal Allowance - based on working days
• Access to pool of company cars

Tono mai inaianei! Apply Now! Applications close 6 May 2026

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.

Agency

Zespri will not accept applications or contact from any temporary staffing agency, placement service or professional recruiter for this vacancy (“Agency”).

Where Zespri requires the support of an agency to fulfil a vacancy, we will proactively seek this support from our network of Agencies.  We respectfully ask that you do not contact Zespri or any of its affiliates/employees regarding vacancies, and reserve the right not to reply.

Zespri will not be responsible for, and will not pay, any fees, commissions or other payments related to such unsolicited resumes.