You need to be a certified SQF Practitioner and have completed a HACCP training course.
A 'suitably qualified SQF Practitioner' is the requirement.
Part A: Implementing and Maintaining the SQF Code
1. Preparing for SQF Certification
1.5 Designate an SQF Practitioner
Whether or not an SQF consultant is used, the SQF Code requires that every supplier have a suitably qualified SQF practitioner on site
1.6 SQF Implementation Training
Implementing SQF Systems training is not mandatory for SQF practitioners, but is strongly recommended.
Training in other food industry disciplines, such as HACCP, Good Agriculture/Aquaculture/Manufacturing Practices (GAP/GMP), and Internal Auditing may also be required and training centers can provide details of the other training courses they provide.
Appendix 2 – Glossary
SQF Practitioner
An individual, designated by a producer/supplier to develop, validate, verify, implement and maintain that producer’s/supplier’s own SQF System. The SQF practitioner details shall be verified by the SQF auditor as meeting the following requirements:
i. Be employed by the company as a permanent full time employee and hold a position of responsibility in regard to the management of the company’s SQF System;
ii. Have completed a HACCP training course and be experienced and competent to implement and maintain HACCP-based food safety plans;
iii. Have an understanding of the SQF Code and the requirements to implement and maintain SQF System relevant to the company’s scope of certification. Successful completion of the “Implementing SQF System Training Course Exam” would meet this requirement.
As others have indicated taking the exam may avoid an interrogation during the audit and remove the 'opinion' element as to your knowledge of the SQF Code. So if $900 for the online implementation course is a bit steep and/or the money could be better spent then the exam only option at $75 removes one element of what could be a stressful couple of days.
Regards,
Tony