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- Tasks: Lead quality control and continuous improvement in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on operational excellence in manufacturing.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hands-on leadership role, and opportunity for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by embedding quality practices and coaching teams for success.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or Manufacturing; experience in quality leadership is essential.
- Other info: 6-month contract with a focus on structure and consistency, not transformation.
We are seeking an experienced Interim Head of Quality to join a complex, high-volume manufacturing environment and take a hands-on leadership role in embedding quality control and continuous improvement (CI) practices across production. This is a critical appointment focused on strengthening operational discipline and communicating the quality strategy effectively to large production teams.
This assignment is not about transformation, it’s about structure, consistency, and coaching. The successful candidate will drive the implementation and reinforcement of existing quality frameworks and CI control measures by engaging with site leadership and front-line teams. With a significant on-site headcount, strong communication and people leadership are essential to translate quality strategy into day-to-day operational performance.
You’ll be expected to:
- Coach and support team leaders and supervisors in understanding and applying quality and CI standards.
- Embed practical, effective control measures to deliver measurable quality outcomes.
- Act as a visible leader on the shop floor—driving accountability, reinforcing behaviours, and resolving issues proactively.
- Align cross-functional teams around quality performance objectives without disrupting the operational rhythm.
What We’re Looking For:
- Proven track record in quality leadership within complex assembly manufacturing, ideally from Automotive, Aerospace, Modular Build, OEM, or Sequencing environments.
- Experienced in managing diverse teams and working within labour-intensive production settings.
- Demonstrated capability in change management—coaching and mentoring to embed and sustain process improvements.
- Practical understanding of CI and Quality Management Systems with a clear focus on results and operational execution.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to influence and guide teams at all levels.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Degree-qualified in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related technical discipline.
- Chartered Quality Professional (CQI) or equivalent professional membership (desirable).
- Proven leadership in quality roles within Automotive, Aerospace, OEM, Modular, or Sequencing Manufacturing.
- Strong track record in embedding and sustaining quality control systems and continuous improvement (CI) methodologies.
- Lean / Six Sigma certified – Green Belt or Black Belt preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and influence large-scale production teams and operational leadership.
- In-depth knowledge of ISO 9001, IATF 16949, or similar industry-specific standards.
- Hands-on experience with coaching, mentoring, and embedding best practices.
- Excellent communication skills, able to turn strategic objectives into clear operational direction.
- Skilled in change management focused on adoption and culture, not transformation projects.
Contact Detail:
Parkinson | Lee Executive Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of Quality - Manufacturing
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the manufacturing and quality sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with individuals who may have insights into the role or even know about opportunities at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 2
Research our company culture and values at StudySmarter. Understanding how we operate and what we value can help you tailor your approach during interviews, showcasing how your leadership style aligns with our mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully implemented quality control measures in previous roles. Highlighting your hands-on experience will demonstrate your capability to lead effectively in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in quality management systems. Being knowledgeable about current practices will not only impress us but also show your commitment to continuous improvement in the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Head of Quality - Manufacturing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in quality leadership within manufacturing environments, particularly in sectors like Automotive or Aerospace. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to implement quality control systems and continuous improvement practices.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your hands-on leadership style and your experience in coaching teams. Mention how you can drive accountability and reinforce behaviours on the shop floor, aligning with the company's focus on operational discipline.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, such as your degree in Engineering or Manufacturing, and any certifications like Lean/Six Sigma. If you have a Chartered Quality Professional membership, make sure to mention it as it aligns with the job requirements.
Showcase Communication Skills: Demonstrate your strong interpersonal and communication skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've influenced and guided teams at all levels, as this is crucial for the role of Interim Head of Quality.
How to prepare for a job interview at Parkinson | Lee Executive Search
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've led quality initiatives in complex manufacturing environments. Highlight your experience in coaching and mentoring teams, as this role requires strong leadership skills.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Quality Standards
Familiarise yourself with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and other relevant quality management systems. Be ready to explain how you've applied these standards in previous roles to achieve measurable outcomes.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since strong communication is essential for this position, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare to discuss how you would align cross-functional teams around quality performance objectives without disrupting operations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world situations. Think of scenarios where you've had to resolve quality issues on the shop floor and how you engaged with team leaders to implement effective control measures.
