At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead quality assurance and drive continuous improvement in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Premier UK manufacturer with over 70 years of precision engineering expertise.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence cultural change and enhance operational excellence.
- Why this job: Join a high-performing team and make a real impact on product quality and customer satisfaction.
- Qualifications: Experience in quality management within manufacturing and strong leadership skills required.
Our client is a premier UK manufacturer and market leader with over 70 years of heritage in precision engineering and high-specification component production. Part of a major global industrial group, their Sunderland facility combines a value-driven culture with significant investment in technology to serve world-class OEMs.
Due to continued growth and a strategic restructure, they are seeking an experienced Quality Manager to serve as the quality lead for their Sunderland site. This role offers a unique opportunity to join a high-performing team, applying the principles of TQM and continuous improvement to drive site performance and safeguard customer standards. Reporting to the Operations Director with a functional line to the UK Quality Director, you will manage the site-specific quality assurance function, lead daily cross-functional alignment, and act as a key partner to the site management team.
The ideal candidate will possess robust quality management experience gained within a manufacturing or engineering environment, combined with strong leadership capabilities and a proven track record of managing customer and supplier quality relationships.
KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES- Lead daily morning alignment meetings with Production, Health & Safety, Maintenance, Purchasing, and Planning to drive continuous improvement.
- Directly supervise, mentor, and conduct annual assessments for a small site quality team consisting of a Quality Engineer, Quality Technician, and Metrology Technician.
- Ensure only products conforming to specifications are manufactured; hold full authority to stop production and/or shipments if a customer risk is identified.
- Analyse customer warranty claims and returned products, implementing robust containment and permanent corrective actions (PCA) / resolutions, using the 8D model.
- Partner with project leaders to contribute to quality implementation during the production launch phase (NPI) and guarantee standards during manufacturing start-up.
- Monitor plant performance by gathering qualitative data, preparing KPIs, and generating comprehensive monthly quality reports.
- Financial & Process Optimization: Partner with purchasing to manage the supplier quality portal and develop targeted changes that actively reduce the Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).
- Minimum of an HND in an Engineering or Manufacturing discipline (or equivalent).
- Proven experience in a Manufacturing or Engineering environment (Automotive or high-specification non-automotive).
- Must possess management, leadership, or supervisory experience with the ability to support cultural change and encourage proactive problem-solving.
- A strong working knowledge and understanding of quality requirements for an ISO 9001 certified organization (a certified Quality Auditing training certificate is highly desirable).
- Proficient in the application of Quality Core Tools and advanced problem-solving frameworks.
- Highly proficient in Microsoft Office, analytical with data, a confident communicator able to host customer visits, and comfortable working in a fast-paced plant environment.
Quality Manager - Manufacturing in Washington employer: Asset Appointments
As a premier UK manufacturer with over 70 years of heritage, our Sunderland facility offers an exceptional work environment that prioritises innovation and quality. Employees benefit from a value-driven culture, significant investment in technology, and ample opportunities for professional growth within a high-performing team. Join us to make a meaningful impact in precision engineering while enjoying a collaborative atmosphere that fosters continuous improvement and leadership development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quality Manager - Manufacturing in Washington
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Asset Appointments, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Quality Manager - Manufacturing in Washington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Asset Appointments specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Asset Appointments
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Asset Appointments, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Asset Appointments value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
