Quality Assurance Manager

Manufacturing Quality and Compliance Lead
Telford
£45,000 - £50,000

SF are recruiting for a Manufacturing Quality and Compliance Lead for our established manufacturing client based in Telford.

The role:

The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring that all products meet the required standards of quality and compliance, in line with customer specifications and regulatory requirements. This role involves leading quality assurance programmes, maintaining compliance with UK standards and regulations, and driving continuous improvement across the manufacturing process.

Duties and Responsibilities:

- Quality Assurance Management:
o Develop, implement, and manage the company's quality management system (QMS) to ensure compliance with industry standards (ISO 9001 or equivalent) and regulatory requirements.
o Oversee product inspections, testing, and audits to ensure products meet or exceed the defined quality standards.
o Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions in response to non-conformance, product defects, or customer complaints.

- Regulatory Compliance:
o Ensure that all products and processes comply with UK regulations, industry standards, and customer requirements.
o Maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulatory requirements, including environmental, health, and safety standards, and ensure the business complies with all relevant legislation.
o Liaise with regulatory bodies to ensure all certifications and approvals are current, including audits, inspections, and reporting obligations.

- Supplier Quality Management:
o Establish and maintain quality standards for suppliers, ensuring that incoming materials and components meet internal and customer requirements.
o Conduct regular supplier audits and performance reviews, ensuring alignment with company quality objectives.
o Manage relationships with key suppliers to ensure continuous quality improvement and address non-conformance issues promptly.

- Continuous Improvement Initiatives:
o Lead continuous improvement projects to enhance product quality, reduce waste, and improve operational efficiency.
o Implement lean manufacturing principles and other quality improvement methodologies, such as Six Sigma, to drive process optimisation.
o Track and report on quality performance indicators (KPIs) and use data-driven insights to drive improvements.

- Internal and External Audits:
o Plan and coordinate internal audits to assess compliance with internal standards, regulatory requirements, and customer specifications.
o Prepare for and manage external audits by certification bodies and regulatory agencies, ensuring that the company maintains its certifications (e.g., ISO, CE marking, etc.).
o Work with departments to address findings from audits, ensuring corrective and preventive actions are implemented in a timely manner.

- Training and Development:
o Develop and deliver quality training programmes for staff at all levels, ensuring that quality awareness is embedded throughout the organisation.
o Provide guidance and training on compliance matters, including any changes in regulations or customer requirements.

- Customer Interface:
o Act as the primary contact for quality-related customer issues, ensuring effective communication and resolution of any quality or compliance concerns.
o Manage customer feedback, ensuring complaints are addressed and corrective actions are implemented promptly.
o Conduct regular quality reviews with customers to ensure satisfaction and identify areas for improvement.

- Working Conditions:
o Primarily based in a manufacturing environment, requiring regular interaction with production teams and suppliers.
o Occasional travel may be required for supplier audits and customer visits.
o Exposure to typical manufacturing conditions such as noise, chemicals, and machinery.

Education and Training:

Required:
- ISO 9001 Lead Auditor qualification (or equivalent).
Desirable:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, Quality Management, Manufacturing, or a related field.
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (or higher) preferred.

Knowledge and experience:

Required:
- Minimum 2 years' experience in a quality management or compliance role within a manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of quality systems, regulatory requirements, and standards such as ISO 9001, CE marking, and other relevant UK legislation.
Experience with conducting internal and external audits, supplier quality management, and managing customer complaints.

Skills & Abilities:
Required:
- Excellent problem-solving skills with a focus on root cause analysis and process improvement.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence and engage teams at all levels.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interface with suppliers, customers, and regulatory bodies.
- Attention to detail and a systematic approach to quality assurance and compliance management.
- Proficient in data analysis and reporting, with experience in quality improvement tools (e.g., FMEA, SPC, Control Plans).