At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead APQP processes to ensure top-notch product quality in aerospace programmes.
- Company: Join Safran, a global leader in aviation and defence, committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible benefits, competitive salary, early finishes on Fridays, and 25 days' holiday.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with excellent career growth and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on aerospace quality while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in aerospace quality and strong knowledge of APQP tools required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 100,000 employees and sales of 27.3 billion euros in 2024, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets. Safran Seats is one of the world's leading manufacturers of aircraft seats, for both crew and passengers. 1 million Safran Seats-manufactured aircraft seats are currently in service with air fleets around the world.
Looking after the people who make Safran great is our priority. We offer a range of flexible benefits designed to support you-both in and out of work, including:
- Early finish on Fridays
- Competitive salary and annual bonus and pay review
- 25 days' holiday + bank holidays (option to buy/sell)
- Strong pension scheme and life assurance
- Professional development, ongoing training, mentoring
- Onsite amenities: parking, restaurant, bicycle storage, showers
- Family-friendly and accessible workplace policies
Your Role
As APQP Lead, you will be responsible for leading and deploying Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) processes across aerospace programmes, ensuring robust product realisation from concept through to production. You will play a critical role in delivering on-time, on-quality product launches while ensuring compliance with aerospace quality standards, customer requirements, and regulatory obligations. Working across Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Program Management, you will drive risk mitigation, defect prevention, and continuous improvement throughout the product lifecycle. You will also act as the subject matter expert for APQP, championing best practice and embedding a culture of quality across the organisation.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the implementation and standardisation of APQP methodology in line with AS9145
- Supporting new product introductions, product transfers, and major change programmes
- Overseeing PPAP submissions and acting as the primary customer quality interface for APQP-related matters
- Facilitating cross-functional APQP core team activities and phase gate reviews
- Ensuring supplier APQP compliance and readiness for critical components
- Developing training materials and coaching teams in quality planning tools and methodologies
What You'll Bring
- Significant experience in aerospace or automotive quality, manufacturing, or programme quality roles
- Proven track record of implementing APQP within an aerospace or automotive environment
- Strong knowledge of APQP tools and methodologies, including PFMEA, DFMEA, Control Plans, and Process Flow Diagrams
- Excellent cross-functional leadership, communication, and influencing skills
- Risk-based thinking with strong analytical and problem-solving capability
- Knowledge of AS9100 and AS9145 standards
- Degree in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, or a related discipline
Industrial Process APQP Lead in Suffolk employer: Safran
At Safran, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the aerospace sector. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our flexible benefits, professional development opportunities, and family-friendly policies, all designed to support a healthy work-life balance. Join us in a role where you can make a meaningful impact on the future of aviation while enjoying a competitive salary and a culture that champions quality and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial Process APQP Lead in Suffolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the aerospace and automotive sectors, especially those who work at Safran. A friendly chat can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on APQP methodologies and aerospace standards. Show us you know your stuff and can lead quality planning like a champ!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings; be proactive! Check our website regularly and apply directly. We love seeing candidates who take the initiative.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It’s a simple way to stand out and show us you’re genuinely interested in the role and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial Process APQP Lead in Suffolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the APQP Lead role. Highlight your experience in aerospace or automotive quality, and don’t forget to mention any specific APQP tools you’ve used. We want to see how your skills match what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear understanding of our mission at Safran.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you’ve successfully implemented APQP processes or improved quality standards in previous roles. We appreciate results-driven candidates!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to us. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our company there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Safran
✨Know Your APQP Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) methodologies, especially AS9145. Brush up on tools like PFMEA and DFMEA, as these will likely come up during your interview. Being able to discuss how you've implemented these in past roles will show your expertise.
✨Showcase Your Cross-Functional Skills
Since the role involves working across various teams, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional projects. Highlight your communication and influencing skills, and think of specific instances where you drove collaboration between engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and risk-based thinking. Prepare scenarios where you had to mitigate risks or prevent defects in a project. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.
✨Understand Safran's Values and Culture
Research Safran’s commitment to sustainability and quality in aerospace. Be ready to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission of making air transport more environmentally friendly. This shows you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in being part of their team.
