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For Companies At a Glance
- 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 enhancing quality standards and coaching diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or Manufacturing; experience in quality leadership required.
- Other info: 6-month contract with potential for future opportunities.
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.
The Role
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.
Interim Head of Quality - Manufacturing employer: Parkinson | Lee Executive Search
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, demonstrating that you're a great fit for our team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experience that showcase your leadership in quality management. Be ready to explain how you've successfully implemented CI practices and engaged teams in a manufacturing environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in quality management within the manufacturing sector. Being knowledgeable about current issues will allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews and show your commitment to 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 measures and continuous improvement practices.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your hands-on leadership style and your proven track record in coaching teams. Mention how you can align cross-functional teams around quality performance objectives and provide examples of past successes in similar roles.
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 status, make sure to mention it prominently.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this role, include examples in your application that demonstrate your ability to influence and guide teams at all levels. This could be through previous projects or initiatives where you successfully communicated quality strategies.
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 people 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 and how they can be effectively implemented in the new position.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world situations. Think about challenges you've faced in quality control and continuous improvement, and how you resolved them while maintaining operational efficiency.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
Since strong communication is essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be concise and ensure you can translate complex quality strategies into actionable steps for production teams.
