Senior Manager, Quality Engineering in Leighton Buzzard

Joining Collins Aerospace isn’t just about finding a job; it’s about embarking on a journey to redefine the future of aerospace technology. Collins Aerospace, an RTX company, provides and sets the standard for technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defence industry. The Senior Quality Manager is a strategic leader and key member of the Galleys leadership team, responsible for defining, executing, and advancing the quality strategy for the business. This role ensures world-class product integrity, regulatory compliance, and customer satisfaction across all operations, including design, production, and installation activities.

The role leads multiple quality functions spanning Quality Engineering, MRB, Escape Management, CAPA, Supplier Quality, and Continuous Improvement driving operational excellence and a culture of accountability. Acting as the senior authority on quality, this leader partners with executive management, customers, and regulatory agencies to align business objectives with compliance requirements and the company’s commitment to safety, reliability, and quality. This is an onsite role in Leighton Buzzard, UK.

What you will do:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive quality strategy that aligns with enterprise goals and drives operational excellence.
• Oversee and enhance the AS9100-certified Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure compliance with Regulatory, and customer-specific requirements.
• Serve as the primary liaison with regulatory authorities, auditors, and customers on all quality and compliance matters.
• Lead the design and implementation of quality systems, processes, and methodologies to ensure product and process conformance.
• Direct Quality Engineering, MRB, Escape Management, and CAPA teams to perform effective root cause analysis and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Oversee work transfer and process change management, ensuring all PPAP and Resourcing Gate requirements are met.
• Champion data-driven decision-making by leveraging analytics, dashboards, and predictive tools to improve quality performance.
• Lead enterprise-wide initiatives to enhance capability, reduce variability, and increase productivity and customer satisfaction.
• Implement proactive quality improvements and engineering changes to address complex nonconformities and customer issues.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and accountability across all quality and operational teams.
• Provide coaching and professional development to enhance team capability, engagement, and alignment with business objectives.
• Adhere to and participate in all EH&S practices and standards across the site, including but not limited to proactive reporting of observed hazards and recommendations to ensure the safety and wellbeing of self and others.

Experience & Qualifications we prefer:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Quality, or a related technical field; advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in quality leadership roles within aerospace or advanced manufacturing.
• Proven expertise in AS9100 standards and Aerospace regulatory compliance.
• Strong knowledge of aerospace quality frameworks, operations, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional initiatives that enhance compliance, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Exceptional analytical, strategic, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to leverage data to drive improvement.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, capable of influencing at all organizational levels.
• Customer-focused mindset with a proactive approach to risk mitigation, performance optimization, and quality innovation.

What You Will Learn:

• Professional Development: Gain access to company-sponsored certifications and training programs, mentorship and guidance from industry leaders, opportunities to develop your leadership skills by driving exciting high-impact projects and initiatives.
• Thrive in a culture of continuous learning and innovation, where curiosity is encouraged and supported.

What we offer:

• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
• Competitive Salary
• Bonus Scheme
• Car allowance
• Fantastic pension scheme
• Critical illness cover
• Income Protection
• Private Medical Insurance, Employee Assistance Programme, the ability to buy holidays, a cycle to work scheme & other great employee discounts

At Collins Aerospace, our Interiors team is focused on innovation, safety and cost efficiency. We’re committed to making air travel more comfortable, connected and secure. As a leader in aviation interior products and services, we’re helping airlines and original equipment manufacturers create a positive experience for their customers. Are you ready to join our team?

RTX adheres to the principles of equal employment. All qualified applications will be given careful consideration without regard to ethnicity, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.