Manager – Compliance & Standards (SMETA/SEDEX)

The Audit & Compliance Manager will be responsible for planning, conducting, and managing internal audits, social compliance audits, and third-party certification audits across all Venus Pakistan operations, with particular focus on McDonald's operational requirements. This role ensures full compliance with SMETA, SEDEX, SA8000, BSCI, and other international audit standards while maintaining strong relationships with external auditors and certification bodies.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Audit Management & Execution

• Plan, schedule, and conduct comprehensive internal audits across all Venus Pakistan facilities (Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad)
• Lead preparations for and manage McDonald's corporate audits, supplier audits, and quality inspections
• Coordinate and facilitate SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) 4-pillar audits
• Manage SEDEX (Supplier Ethical Data Exchange) platform registrations, updates, and audit scheduling
• Oversee social compliance audits including labor practices, working conditions, health & safety, and environmental standards
• Conduct operational audits for logistics, manufacturing, and hospitality divisions
• Prepare detailed audit reports with findings, corrective actions, and timelines
• Track and verify closure of all Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) and Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs)

Compliance & Standards Management

• Ensure ongoing compliance with international standards including:
• SMETA (4-Pillar: Labor, Health & Safety, Environment, Business Ethics)
• SEDEX membership and platform management
• SA8000 (Social Accountability International)
• BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative)
• ISO standards (ISO 9001, ISO 22000, ISO 45001 where applicable)
• McDonald's Supplier Code of Conduct
• Local labor laws and EOBI/ESSI compliance
• Monitor regulatory changes and update company policies accordingly
• Maintain compliance documentation, certifications, and licenses

McDonald's Specific Requirements

• Serve as primary point of contact for McDonald's Pakistan audit teams
• Ensure compliance with McDonald's Standards of Business Conduct
• Coordinate McDonald's QSC (Quality, Service, Cleanliness) audits
• Manage McDonald's supplier qualification and re-certification processes
• Implement McDonald's safety, hygiene, and operational standards across facilities
• Prepare for and manage announced and unannounced McDonald's audits

Risk Management & Process Improvement

• Identify compliance risks and develop mitigation strategies
• Recommend and implement process improvements based on audit findings
• Conduct gap analyses and vulnerability assessments
• Develop and deliver compliance training programs for staff and management
• Establish internal control systems and monitoring mechanisms

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain comprehensive audit files, evidence, and corrective action tracking
• Prepare monthly/quarterly compliance reports for senior management
• Update and maintain compliance manuals, SOPs, and work instructions
• Manage document control systems for audit-related records
• Generate KPIs and metrics for compliance performance

Stakeholder Management

• Liaise with external auditors, certification bodies, and regulatory authorities
• Coordinate with HR, Operations, and Finance departments on compliance matters
• Communicate audit findings and requirements to department heads
• Build and maintain relationships with McDonald's compliance teams
• Represent the company during client audits and regulatory inspections

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Quality Management, Industrial Engineering, or related field
• Preferred: MBA or professional certification in Quality/Compliance (Lead Auditor certification, ISO Internal Auditor)

Experience:

• Minimum 5-7 years of audit and compliance experience in manufacturing, FMCG, or hospitality sectors
• Mandatory: Proven experience conducting SMETA and SEDEX audits
• Strong experience with social compliance audits (SA8000, BSCI, or equivalent)
• Experience working with international brands or QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) chains highly preferred
• Prior McDonald's supplier audit experience is a significant advantage
• Experience managing third-party certification audits (ISO, HACCP, etc.)

Technical Skills:

• Expert knowledge of SMETA 4-Pillar audit protocols
• Proficiency with SEDEX platform (registration, SAQ completion, audit management)
• Understanding of social compliance standards: SA8000, BSCI, ETI Base Code
• Familiarity with ISO standards (ISO 9001, ISO 22000, ISO 45001)
• Knowledge of Pakistan labor laws, EOBI, ESSI, and workplace safety regulations
• Strong understanding of food safety and hygiene standards (HACCP, GMP)
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and audit management software
• Experience with document management and quality systems

Competencies:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent report writing and documentation abilities
• Detail-oriented with high level of accuracy
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple audits simultaneously
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (English & Urdu)
• Ability to handle pressure and tight deadlines
• High ethical standards and integrity
• Willingness to travel frequently between company locations

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Rs80,000.00 - Rs150,000.00 per month

Work Location: In person