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- Tasks: Lead quality initiatives and ensure every product meets high standards.
- Company: Join John Smedley, Britain's oldest manufacturing brand with a rich heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, and a chance to shape quality culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a historic brand while driving modern quality practices.
- Qualifications: Experience in quality management systems and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Be part of a close-knit team dedicated to craftsmanship and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 ÂŁ per year.
Lead Quality Auditor
Full Time | Permanent | Up to ÂŁ36,000 + Benefits
Matlock – DE4 5A
Are you passionate about building a “quality first” culture? Do you thrive on turning systems and standards into real-world results? If you’re ready to lead, influence, and make a lasting impact on a heritage British brand, this is your opportunity.
At John Smedley, we’re renowned for craftsmanship, consistency, and care. As we move towards ISO9001 accreditation, we’re looking for a Lead Quality Auditor to take ownership of our quality framework — ensuring every product, process, and person reflects our uncompromising standards.
This is a hybrid role that blends strategic thinking with hands‑on leadership. You’ll shape our systems, mentor our people, and keep us audit-ready — every single day. From coaching production teams to leading internal audits and customer assurance reviews, you’ll be the guardian of quality and the driver of improvement.
What You’ll Do:
- Lead and develop the Quality function, embedding best practice across all areas.
- Drive our ISO9001 journey — from preparation through to certification and beyond.
- Conduct internal audits and champion a culture of compliance, consistency, and improvement.
- Partner with design, production, and customers to ensure every product meets our high standards.
- Use data and insight to identify issues, reduce waste, and improve performance.
- Be a visible, hands‑on leader — challenging, coaching, and inspiring others to deliver excellence.
Who You’ll Bring:
- Experience in quality management systems (ideally ISO9001).
- Proven auditing and process improvement expertise.
- A collaborative leadership style — confident, clear, and customer-focused.
- The ability to balance detail with the bigger picture, influencing stakeholders at every level.
- A genuine passion for craftsmanship, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
Why John Smedley?
We’re Britain’s oldest manufacturing brand — proudly crafting premium knitwear in Derbyshire since 1784.
Our commitment to quality runs deep: from the finest materials and meticulous processes to the people who make it happen. You’ll join a close‑knit team where tradition meets transformation, and where your expertise will shape the next chapter of our story.
If you’re ready to lead quality from the front — and make a real difference in a heritage business with a modern mindset — we’d love to hear from you.
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Lead Quality Auditor employer: JOHN SMEDLEY LTD
Contact Detail:
JOHN SMEDLEY LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Quality Auditor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with your passion for quality and craftsmanship. This will help you stand out as someone who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to quality management and process improvement. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and showcase your experience effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at John Smedley.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Quality Auditor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Quality: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for quality shine through. Talk about your experiences and how they align with our commitment to craftsmanship and continuous improvement. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in quality management systems, especially ISO9001. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their skills with what we’re looking for, so don’t hold back on showcasing your auditing and process improvement expertise!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate candidates who can communicate effectively, as this reflects the clarity we strive for in our quality processes.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join our team at John Smedley!
How to prepare for a job interview at JOHN SMEDLEY LTD
✨Know Your Quality Standards
Familiarise yourself with ISO9001 and other relevant quality management systems. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented these standards in previous roles, as this will show your expertise and commitment to quality.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've led teams in the past, particularly in quality assurance contexts. Highlight your collaborative approach and how you inspire others to maintain high standards, as this aligns perfectly with the role's requirements.
✨Data-Driven Insights
Be prepared to discuss how you've used data to identify issues and drive improvements. Bring specific examples of how your insights have led to reduced waste or enhanced performance, demonstrating your analytical skills.
✨Passion for Craftsmanship
Express your genuine passion for quality and craftsmanship during the interview. Share any personal experiences or projects that reflect your commitment to continuous improvement, as this will resonate well with the company's heritage and values.
