Raphael Irungu Waihura
Embakasi
Summary
Diligent Quality Assurance Technologist with solid foundation in quality assurance processes and methodologies. Demonstrated ability to enhance product quality through effective testing and troubleshooting. Proven track record of utilizing analytical skills and attention to detail to ensure compliance with industry standards.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Quality Assurance Technologist (Process Lines and Laboratory Processes)
Coca-Cola Beverages Kenya Limited (a subsidiary of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa)
12.2022 - Current
- Strategically aligning quality goals and objectives with broader business priorities to drive organizational success.
- Leading the successful implementation of Quality at Source initiatives and developed robust Quality Assurance functions at the plant level.
- Ensuring stringent compliance of product and packaging quality with legal, internal, and The Coca-Cola Company (TCCC) requirements.
- Overseeing and optimizing quality and laboratory environments, maintaining high operational standards.
- Driving continuous improvement and problem-solving initiatives, enhancing operational efficiency and product quality.
- Leading and supporting cross-functional continuous improvement in manufacturing using TPM principles and tools to reduce quality defects/losses, customer complaints, improve efficiency, and enhance product quality.
- Managing and enforcing adherence to safety, health, and environmental standards.
- Managing and optimizing laboratory costs to ensure fiscal responsibility.
- Administering and leveraging Statistical Process Control (SPC) software (e.g., SPC Champion) for data-driven quality insights.
- Achievements
- Spearheaded initiatives to analyze and reduce loss and waste on processing lines, resulting in decreased production waste and a significant reduction in the cost of poor quality.
- Led targeted projects that effectively reduced consumer complaints, enhancing product satisfaction and brand reputation.
Quality Assurance Technologist (Incoming Inspection and Laboratory Processes)
Coca-Cola Beverages Kenya Limited (a subsidiary of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa)
12.2020 - 12.2022
- Spearheaded the plant's quality improvement initiatives, elevating performance to meet world-class standards and reducing product defects.
- Enhanced the supplier quality program by conducting rigorous audits and implementing Statistical Process Control (SPC), improving incoming material quality by 70%.
- Drove continuous improvement projects in packaging and processing, leading to optimized workflows and a reduction in operational errors.
- Ensured strict compliance with GMP, HACCP, and safety standards across the facility, successfully passing various internal and external audits with zero major non-conformances.
- Led and mentored a team of six direct reports, driving individual performance and fostering skill development initiatives.
- Led the recruitment and qualification of two new ingredient and packaging suppliers, from initial audits and line trials to successful commercial runs.
- Achievements
- Reduced significant downtime related to labeling materials by leading a comprehensive project that identified and resolved critical issues in material ordering, storage, and handling.
- Strengthened supplier partnership and improved the supply chain by pinpointing root causes, including oversized orders and improper storage, leading to positive collaboration and process changes.
- Increased supplier audit coverage from 30% to 70% in one year by developing and implementing a new, structured external audit plan.
QAQC Incoming Inspection and Acting QAT Technologist Packaging and Laboratory Processes
Nairobi Bottlers Limited (Coca-Cola Beverages Africa)
04.2017 - 12.2020
- Managed comprehensive quality control for incoming raw materials, verifying specification adherence, resolving supplier non-conformities, and ensuring effective corrective actions.
- Provided essential support to production operations, troubleshooting raw material issues and leading root cause analyses to minimize disruptions.
- Drove continuous improvement in supplier quality through performance monitoring, maintaining non-conformity records, conducting annual audits, and fostering strategic partnerships.
- Oversaw calibration programs for quality control devices, coordinating both internal procedures and external services to maintain equipment accuracy.
- Executed test runs and validation studies for new materials, delivering data-driven recommendations for product integration.
- Developed and maintained Integrated Management System documentation (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001), ensuring compliance and supporting system enhancement.
- Actively participated in internal audit processes and in corrective actions process.
- Laboratory Equipment and Data Management (SPC Champion)
- Managed Statistical Process Control (SPC) software, including database creation, project modification, and updating product specifications for new and existing lines.
- Developed and delivered comprehensive training programs on SPC methodologies, process control principles, and laboratory testing procedures for new and existing staff.
- Performed routine maintenance and internal calibration of critical laboratory equipment, ensuring operational accuracy and reliability.
- Coordinated and meticulously documented external calibration activities, ensuring full audit readiness and adherence to regulatory compliance.
- Spearheaded the implementation of new laboratory technologies, significantly enhancing data quality and maintaining integrity across testing processes.
- Achievements
- Reduced laboratory repair expenses by developing in-house expertise in calibration, minor repairs, and maintenance of sensitive equipment, minimizing reliance on external technicians.
- Became the plant's SPC Champion and super user through self-directed learning, expertly troubleshooting and managing Statistical Process Control software.
- Significantly reduced paper consumption by over 50% by developing and implementing Infinity QS Projects for digital laboratory data capture.
Process Quality Controller
CCSABCO Nairobi Bottlers Limited
02.2013 - 04.2017
- Monitored and managed water treatment, production processes, and raw material inspections to ensure quality.
- Collected and updated real-time data in SPC software and other process monitoring documentation.
- Conducted process performance studies, identifying and reporting deviations to ensure consistent product quality and drive continuous improvement.
- Achievements
- Drove personal initiative in machine maintenance, repairs, and calibration, enhancing equipment reliability.
- Applied Autonomous Maintenance (TPM) principles, contributing to operational efficiency.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
Kenyatta University
01.2010
K.C.S.E - undefined
Kirwara Boys High School
01.2004
Skills
Leadership & Management: Demonstrated leadership overseeing a team of six Quality Analysts; skilled in team management, prioritization, and thriving in fast-paced, high-workload environments
Quality Assurance & Compliance: Certified Internal Auditor for Integrated Management Systems (QMS, EMS, and OHSAS) by SGS (K) Limited; Certified Quality Management Lead Auditor; expertise in Food Manufacturing Practices (FMP) and sanitation programs
Analytical & Technical: Exceptional analytical and organizational skills with a strong detail orientation; proficient in technical processes, food microbiology, and food safety principles
Communication & Collaboration: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; proven ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders at all organizational levels
Financial & Software Proficiency: Excellent budgeting and budget management skills; highly proficient in MS Office Suite (advanced Excel), SAP ERP and MSD, Power BI, and Statistical Process Control (SPC) tools
References
- Joseph, Gathagia, Head of Global Recruitment, jgithiajah@gmail.com, +254709282131, Norwegian Refugee Council
- Sheilah, Kim, EOSH Coordinator, sheilahkim@gmail.com, +254717094227, Coca-Cola Beverages Kenya Ltd.
- Judy, Muhoro, QAT- Microbiology, judyndungu.in@gmail.com, +254720851676, Coca-Cola Beverages Kenya Ltd.
Interests
Gym workouts, playing chess and scrabble and reading books
Professional Training and seminar
- MDRM Infinity Cataloguing Course – Requester.
- Integrated Management Systems and QMS Lead Auditor - SGS.
- Online Power BI Training on DataCamp.
Accomplishments
• Spearheaded initiatives to analyze and reduce loss and waste on processing lines, resulting in decreased production waste and a significant reduction in the cost of poor quality.
• Led targeted projects that effectively reduced consumer complaints, enhancing product satisfaction and brand reputation.
Software
MSD 365
SPC - Infinity Qs
SAP ERP
Microsoft Office Suite
Power BI
Certification
ISO 9001:2015 - Quality Management Systems Auditor/Lead Auditor Training Course
Timeline
ISO 9001:2015 - Quality Management Systems Auditor/Lead Auditor Training Course
06-2023
Quality Assurance Technologist (Process Lines and Laboratory Processes)
Coca-Cola Beverages Kenya Limited (a subsidiary of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa)
12.2022 - Current
Quality Assurance Technologist (Incoming Inspection and Laboratory Processes)
Coca-Cola Beverages Kenya Limited (a subsidiary of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa)
12.2020 - 12.2022
QAQC Incoming Inspection and Acting QAT Technologist Packaging and Laboratory Processes
Nairobi Bottlers Limited (Coca-Cola Beverages Africa)
04.2017 - 12.2020
Process Quality Controller
CCSABCO Nairobi Bottlers Limited
02.2013 - 04.2017
K.C.S.E - undefined
Kirwara Boys High School
Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry
Kenyatta University