Michaela De Sousa
Microbiologist & Food Quality Specialist
Randburg Johannesburg
Summary
Experienced Microbiologist& Food safety Specialist in the FMCG industry with proven experience improving scientific community by performing accurate research while complying with laboratory safety protocol and standards. Outstanding data management and report development skills contributing to research funding efforts. Lead of an autonomous through collaboration and inclusivity which has developed a mature and responsible approach to any task undertaken. Possession of a good understanding of the essentials of quality compliance , GMP's, PRP's , HACCP & regulatory compliance.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Brewery Microbiologist &Food Safety Specialist
AB InBev- South African Breweries
01.2022 - Current
- Developing and implementing optimal brewery wide food safety and microbiological standards and work practices to ensure compliance to food safety and microbiological process and product specifications.
- Managing interactions with external suppliers and internal stakeholders who provide quality & food safety services.
- Revision of best operating practice standards and procedures Conducting internal audits to survey opportunities for continuous improvement of food safety & quality management systems
- Ensure daily quality control measures are being achieved.
- Implementation, training and governance of HACCP, TACCP & VACCP systems
- Successful compliance to food safety certifications
- Ensuring document and data control systems are adhered to
- Managing senior laboratory Technicians and improving employee engagement Index from 55% to 80%
- Management of Pre-requisite programs Improving KPI from 72% to 88%
- Improvement of Global Food Safety Initiative Readiness for organization from 66% to 89%
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop innovative solutions for complex microbiological challenges.
- Enhanced laboratory efficiency by streamlining sample processing and implementing new testing procedures.
- Reduced contamination risk by maintaining sterile laboratories, plant environment and adhering to safety protocols.
- Increased accuracy of test results through meticulous attention to detail during data analysis and interpretation.
- Reduced contamination risk by maintaining sterile laboratory environments and adhering to safety protocols.
Quality Management Technical Trainee
AB-InBev
01.2021 - 01.2022
- Enhanced software proficiency by completing hands-on technical training and collaborating with experienced colleagues.
- Developed problem-solving skills by troubleshooting technical issues for clients and providing timely solutions.
- Improved customer satisfaction by addressing their technical concerns, offering prompt assistance and clear communication.
- Streamlined processes for better efficiency, implementing new tools and strategies learned during the traineeship.
Site Hazardous Chemical Controller
AB InBev
10.2018 - 11.2021
- Assisting in site compliance of OHSA 85/1993 and hazardous chemical substances regulations.
- Implemented cost-saving measures, identifying inefficiencies and reallocating resources to achieve optimal results.
- Conducted thorough risk assessments to safeguard company assets and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements.
Microbiology & Analytical Laboratory Technician
AB-InBev
06.2018 - 12.2020
- Enhanced laboratory efficiency by implementing new analytical methods and protocols through through digital compliance reports.
- Improved data accuracy through meticulous sample preparation and analysis.
- Streamlined lab operations by maintaining equipment, reducing downtime, and increasing productivity.
- Contributed to successful project outcomes by collaborating with interdisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers.
- Improvement of Plant micro Indexes through use of Plan, Do, Check ,Act problem solving tools improved KPI from 60% to 85%
- Improvement of Physical Chemistry Indexes to support product technical specifications achievement.
- Management of laboratory consumable costs
Brewing Processing Operator
AB InBev
02.2017 - 05.2018
- Enhanced production efficiency by monitoring and adjusting machine settings according to product specifications.
- Reduced downtime to plant by performing routine autonomous maintenance on equipment and troubleshooting machine issues.
- Maintained high quality standards by conducting regular inspections of products for defects or deviations improving yeast viabilities from 92% to 98%.
- Collaborated with team members to optimize workflow and achieve overall operational goals.
- Exceeded production targets consistently by prioritizing tasks and maintaining focus on key objectives.
- Supported continuous improvement initiatives by participating in cross-functional teams and providing feedback on processes and operations.
Travel Assistant
Cruise About
01.2015 - 09.2017
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing personalized travel itineraries and recommendations.
- Streamlined booking processes for improved efficiency and increased client retention rates.
- Delivered exceptional service with prompt issue resolution, ensuring positive customer experiences.
- Collaborated with team members to create memorable travel packages tailored to clients'' preferences.
Chemical Engineering Cadette
FFS Oil Refiners
10.2016 - 01.2017
- Developed leadership skills in junior cadets by assigning them challenging tasks and responsibilities.
- Promoted teamwork and collaboration among cadets by organizing team-building activities and exercises.
- Reviewing and updating of water reticulation systems for the reduction in water KPI measured.
- Operating of effluent plant and applying problem solving to deviated process indicators.
- Mass balances done on blended fuel tanks to develop an automated system.
- Streamlined communication within the unit by introducing effective reporting procedures.
Sales Assistant
Adidas Originals
11.2013 - 01.2015
- Increased sales by building strong customer relationships and providing excellent service.
- Boosted store revenue through upselling and cross-selling techniques.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction with personalized product recommendations based on their needs and preferences.
- Managed inventory to ensure optimal stock levels, minimizing overstock and out-of-stock situations.
Brand Ambassador
Adsup Promotions
09.2011 - 06.2013
- Enhanced brand recognition by executing promotional events and engaging customers with product demonstrations.
- Boosted sales through effective collaboration with store staff to promote products in high-traffic areas.
- Generated leads for future business opportunities by collecting customer contact information during promotional events.
- Ensured accurate representation of brand by maintaining consistent messaging and visuals across all promotional materials and presentations.
- Managed 100% of high influx of customer queries during peak holiday seasons independently.
- Ensured accurate representation of brands by maintaining consistent messaging and visuals across all promotional materials and presentations.
Education
Diploma - Brewing
Institute of Brewing And Distilling
London , England06.2024
Bachelors of Technology - Chemical Engineering
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
Cape Town, South Africa11.2019
National Senior Certificate -
J.G Meiring High
Cape Town South Africa12.2013
Skills
- Statistical Analysis
- Quality Control Procedures
- Good laboratory practices
- Fermentation Processes
- Microbial Identification
- Attention to Detail
- Decision-Making
- Interpersonal Skills
- Problem-solving abilities
- Microscopic Analysis
- Continuous Improvement
- Laboratory Management
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Analytical Skills
- Time management abilities
- Proficient in PCR
Certification
- Hazard analysis and critical control point implementation Training - 6 Months
- British Retail Consortium Global Standard implementation Training - 6 Month
- Systems auditing Training - 2 Months
- Food Safety Systems Certification 22000 Implementation Training - 6 Months
- Lean Six Sigma Manufacturing Project in the Blending plant Optimization - 1 Year
Languages
English
Advanced (C1)
Afrikaans
Intermediate (B1)
Timeline
Brewery Microbiologist &Food Safety Specialist
AB InBev- South African Breweries
01.2022 - Current
Quality Management Technical Trainee
AB-InBev
01.2021 - 01.2022
Site Hazardous Chemical Controller
AB InBev
10.2018 - 11.2021
Microbiology & Analytical Laboratory Technician
AB-InBev
06.2018 - 12.2020
Brewing Processing Operator
AB InBev
02.2017 - 05.2018
Chemical Engineering Cadette
FFS Oil Refiners
10.2016 - 01.2017
Travel Assistant
Cruise About
01.2015 - 09.2017
Sales Assistant
Adidas Originals
11.2013 - 01.2015
Brand Ambassador
Adsup Promotions
09.2011 - 06.2013
Diploma - Brewing
Institute of Brewing And Distilling
Bachelors of Technology - Chemical Engineering
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
National Senior Certificate -
J.G Meiring High
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