Quality Manager (2 Year FTC) in Ipswich

As part of Bouygues Construction's Public Works division, VSL International participates in the construction of major technical structures and guarantees their structural safety and durability: transport infrastructure (bridges, tunnels), industrial and energy production structures, and commercial buildings. VSL has 4,000 employees at 25 locations worldwide (Asia and Oceania, Middle East, Europe, Latin America, Canada). Sizewell C is at the heart of the UK’s clean energy revolution. This landmark nuclear power station in Suffolk will provide low‑carbon electricity for millions of homes and play a vital role in achieving the UK’s net zero targets.

Role Overview

The Quality Manager is responsible for the implementation, monitoring, and continual improvement of project quality systems and processes. The role will provide leadership and guidance on quality‑related matters, ensuring that project teams understand and fulfil their quality responsibilities while maintaining compliance with project requirements, company procedures, and industry standards.

Main Responsibilities

• Quality Leadership & Management
  • Promote and embed a Right First Time culture throughout project delivery teams.
  • Ensure project personnel understand their quality‑related responsibilities, quality processes, and performance expectations.
  • Support the achievement of project quality KPIs and performance requirements.
  • Measure, monitor, and report quality performance metrics to senior leadership at agreed intervals.
  • Drive continual improvement initiatives and promote best practice across project teams.
  • Support the development of a positive quality culture that encourages accountability and operational excellence.
• Quality Systems & Compliance
  • Monitor compliance with project quality requirements throughout all stages of project delivery.
  • Ensure quality processes within the Business Management System are understood and effectively implemented.
  • Support the implementation and maintenance of quality procedures, inspection processes, and project controls.
  • Ensure quality records, documentation, and reporting systems are maintained accurately and in a timely manner.
  • Liaise with the wider business quality function to ensure alignment with company standards and the sharing of lessons learned.
  • Support the review of materials, components, infrastructure, and working environments to ensure compliance with project requirements.
• Auditing & Assurance
  • Assist in the preparation and implementation of comprehensive audit programmes.
  • Coordinate internal audits and support external audits as required.
  • Ensure audit findings are effectively communicated and closed out within agreed timescales.
  • Conduct focused site surveillance activities and quality inspections to verify compliance with project requirements.
  • Produce inspection and surveillance reports and monitor the closure of observations and non‑conformances.
• Non‑Conformance & Continuous Improvement
  • Conduct root cause analysis investigations for Non‑Conformance Reports (NCRs) and quality issues.
  • Ensure corrective and preventive actions are identified, implemented, and monitored to completion.
  • Maintain records of root cause analyses and quality improvement activities.
  • Facilitate lessons learned workshops and quality forums to share good practice and prevent recurrence of issues.
  • Identify and communicate examples of best practice across project teams.
• Client & Stakeholder Management
  • Act as the primary point of contact for all quality‑related matters with the Client, regulators, and third‑party organisations.
  • Lead quality meetings, audits, and inspections with client representatives and external stakeholders.
  • Prepare and present quality reports, performance metrics, and compliance updates to senior management and the Client.
• Site & Operational Support
  • Conduct regular meetings with project delivery teams to discuss quality performance and quality‑related issues.
  • Prepare and distribute meeting minutes and quality action trackers.
  • Support project teams in understanding technical specifications, quality requirements, and inspection processes.
  • Provide advice and guidance on quality‑related matters to operational teams and stakeholders.
  • Assist in resolving quality concerns and support project teams in implementing effective solutions.
• Team Leadership & Development
  • Support, mentor, and provide day‑to‑day guidance to Quality Engineers.
  • Assist in developing quality capability across the project team through coaching and knowledge sharing.
  • Identify quality training requirements and support the delivery of development initiatives.
  • Contribute to building a high‑performing quality team through effective leadership and continuous professional development.
  • Promote transferable skills and knowledge sharing to improve team resilience and capability.

Candidate Profile

• Education & Experience
  • Degree qualified in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Quality Management, or a related discipline.
  • Significant experience in a Quality Management role within major infrastructure, civil engineering, geotechnical, or construction projects.
  • Experience managing project quality systems on large‑scale, complex construction projects.
  • Experience working within highly regulated environments is advantageous, particularly nuclear, energy, rail, or major infrastructure sectors.
• Technical Skills
  • Strong knowledge of Quality Management Systems and ISO 9001 requirements.
  • Experience developing and implementing Project Quality Plans, ITPs, and quality assurance processes.
  • Strong understanding of construction methodologies, inspection regimes, and compliance requirements.
  • Experience managing audits, non‑conformance processes, and continuous improvement programmes.
  • Excellent reporting, documentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Personal Attributes
  • Strong leadership and people management capabilities.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Highly organised with strong attention to detail.
  • Proactive and solutions‑focused approach to problem‑solving.
  • Ability to influence and drive quality excellence across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Comfortable operating in a fast‑paced, complex project environment.

VSL/Bouygues Construction is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse working environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Interested? Apply now and let's build the great structures of tomorrow together!