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- Tasks: Lead quality management and ensure compliance with AS9100 standards in a dynamic engineering environment.
- Company: Join a fast-growing precision engineering firm with over 30 years in the defence sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, and an early finish on Fridays.
- Why this job: Make a direct impact on national security projects while shaping the company's future growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in senior quality roles within defence or aerospace; strong leadership and communication skills required.
- Other info: This is a board-level position with significant growth potential across multiple sites.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
This range is provided by Meritus. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range
Direct message the job poster from Meritus
Staffing Consultant | Defence, Space and Aerospace Contract – Get in touch! 07441391885
About the Company
Our client is a long-established but fast-growing precision engineering business with over 30 years’ history supplying the defence sector. Specialising in the manufacture of high-value, high-precision mechanical components, the company plays a vital role in supporting UK defence infrastructure. With a current 32,000 sq ft facility and expansion into a new 27,000 sq ft site, this is an exciting time to join as they scale operations into new markets and projects.
The Opportunity
This is a board-level appointment and a pivotal role in shaping the future of the company. The Quality Manger / Director will be responsible for the overall quality management strategy across the business, ensuring compliance with AS9100 standards and maintaining the highest level of customer and regulatory confidence. The role offers significant growth potential, evolving into a group-level responsibility across multiple sites as the business expands.
Key Responsibilities
- Own, maintain, and continuously improve the company’s Quality Management System (QMS) to AS9100 standards.
- Lead and facilitate internal and external audits, ensuring full compliance with customer and regulatory requirements.
- Drive a culture of quality across the organisation, embedding best practices and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Manage and mentor the quality team, ensuring they are empowered to maintain operational excellence.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, production, and business development to resolve quality challenges quickly and effectively.
- Act as a board-level representative for quality, influencing long-term strategy and supporting the company’s ambitious growth plans.
- Support the roll-out of quality processes into a second manufacturing facility and across group companies.
Skills and Experience Required
- Proven experience in a senior quality role within defence or aerospace manufacturing.
- Strong knowledge of AS9100 requirements and hands-on experience managing successful audits.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt to fast-moving situations, and solve problems under pressure.
- Background in mechanical engineering or machining is highly desirable but not essential.
- Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence at board level and motivate teams at all levels.
- Eligible to work in the UK. Security clearance is not essential but would be advantageous.
What’s on Offer
- Salary in the region of £60,000 – £80,000 depending on experience.
- Flexible working arrangements for the right candidate.
- Early finish on Fridays.
- Direct impact on business strategy and the opportunity to grow into a group-level leadership role.
- The chance to work on high-value, prestigious defence projects that contribute directly to national security.
Working Hours
- Monday to Thursday: 8:00 – 16:45 (half-hour lunch)
- Friday: 8:00 – 15:30 (early finish)
Seniority level
-
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
-
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
-
Job function
Quality Assurance
-
Industries
Defense and Space Manufacturing
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Director of Quality employer: Meritus
Contact Detail:
Meritus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Quality
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the defence and aerospace sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with people who can provide insights about the company and its culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with AS9100 standards and recent changes in quality management practices. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've driven quality improvements in previous roles. Highlight your leadership skills and ability to influence at a board level, as this is crucial for the Director position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company's recent projects and expansion plans. Being knowledgeable about their current operations will allow you to tailor your discussions and show genuine interest in contributing to their growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Quality
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Director of Quality position. Familiarise yourself with AS9100 standards and the specific challenges faced in the defence sector.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in quality management, particularly within defence or aerospace manufacturing. Emphasise your leadership skills and any successful audits you've managed, ensuring your CV aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only showcases your qualifications but also demonstrates your passion for quality assurance and the defence industry. Mention how your vision aligns with the company's growth plans and your ability to influence at board level.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a role focused on quality management.
How to prepare for a job interview at Meritus
✨Understand AS9100 Standards
Make sure you have a solid grasp of AS9100 standards, as this role heavily revolves around compliance. Be prepared to discuss how you've implemented these standards in previous roles and the impact it had on quality management.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
As a Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams, mentored individuals, and driven a culture of quality within an organisation.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities under pressure. Think of specific instances where you've resolved quality challenges quickly and effectively, especially in fast-paced environments like defence or aerospace.
✨Highlight Cross-Functional Collaboration
This role requires collaboration with various departments. Be ready to discuss how you've worked with engineering, production, and business development teams to tackle quality issues and improve processes.
