Head of Quality in Leighton Buzzard

HEAD OF QUALITY £70,000–£80,000 DOE BONUS ONSITE 5 DAYS A WEEK  We’re currently recruiting for an exciting opportunity for an experienced Head of Quality to take full ownership of the Quality function and Quality Management System within a growing, highly regulated manufacturing environment. This is a hands-on leadership position, managing a team of approximately 10 Quality professionals, including Senior Quality Engineers, Quality Engineers and Quality Inspectors. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance, while driving a culture of continuous improvement, operational excellence and customer satisfaction. Key Responsibilities for the appointed Head of Quality; Take overall ownership of the Quality Management System (QMS) and associated documentation. Lead, develop and manage a Quality team of approximately 10 professionals. Ensure products and components meet design, customer, regulatory and quality requirements. Maintain compliance with third-party approvals, customer standards and regulatory bodies. Lead root cause analysis, CAPA, corrective and preventive actions across product and process issues. Plan and oversee internal, external and customer audits. Lead and manage PPAP, FAIR and APQP activities. Monitor and report Quality KPIs, metrics and compliance performance. Manage customer complaints, returns and non-conformances through to effective resolution. Drive continuous improvement and best practice across the organisation. Develop team capability through coaching, training and structured development. Work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing and Operations to ensure Quality supports wider business objectives.The selected Head of Quality will meet the following criteria for the position; Proven experience leading and developing Quality teams within aerospace, defence or another highly regulated manufacturing environment. Strong experience implementing and maintaining ISO 9001; AS9100 experience highly desirable. Working knowledge of NADCAP and CAA requirements would be highly advantageous. Strong understanding of Quality Engineering and Quality Management Systems. Hands-on experience with FAIRs, PPAP, APQP and 8D problem solving. Strong understanding of CAPA, root cause analysis, auditing and continuous improvement. Excellent analytical, organisational and decision-making skills. A proactive, hands-on leadership style with the ability to influence across the business. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.This position may also be referred to as: Head of Quality , Quality Director , Quality Manager,  Senior Quality Manager, Quality Assurance Manager ,Quality Systems Manager , Quality & Compliance Manager ,Quality Engineering Manager