At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage the Supplier Quality team, ensuring compliance and driving performance.
- Company: Wrightbus is Europe's fastest-growing production company based in Wrightbus.
- Benefits: Enjoy a discretionary bonus, life insurance, and discounts with local businesses.
- Other info: Applications close on Tuesday 30 Jun; early applications are encouraged.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team focused on zero defects and supplier quality excellence.
- Qualifications: Minimum 5 years' experience in a Quality role within manufacturing or 2 years in a regulated industry.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Job type: Permanent
Location: Wrightbus
Closing date: Tuesday 30 Jun
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates. We therefore encourage early applications.
All applicants must hold valid right to work in the UK. Please be aware that we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position now or in the future.
The Job Summary: Wrightbus is Europe's fastest-growing production company. The Senior SQA Team Leader manages supplier quality, driving performance, supporting launches, and ensuring compliance to deliver zero defects and minimise non-conformances.
The Role:
- Lead, mentor & manage the Supplier Quality team of Engineers & Technicians, providing direction and coaching.
- Collaborate with the SQA Manager to define and deploy supplier quality strategy aligned with business and customer requirements.
- Own supplier quality performance across multiple commodities.
- Lead supplier selection, qualification, and ongoing performance management.
- Support new product launches and ensure supplier readiness.
- Lead and govern ISIR submissions and parts approvals.
- Own & Manage Goods inwards inspection processes.
- Lead high-impact supplier escalations and crisis management activities.
- Drive supplier corrective actions using structured problem-solving methodologies (8D, 5 Why, etc.).
- Conduct and oversee supplier process and system audits.
- Partner with Procurement on supplier sourcing decisions and risk assessments.
- Develop supplier improvement roadmaps in collaboration with the Supplier development team.
- Monitor and report supplier quality KPIs to senior leadership.
- Ensure compliance with Quality Management System requirements (ISO 9001:2015).
- Lead cross-functional reviews for supplier-related risks and mitigation plans.
- Standardize supplier quality processes across sites.
- Identify and lead continuous improvement projects.
- Collaborate with Procurement, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Logistics teams.
- Collaborate with Warranty team on supplier-related customer complaints and warranty issues.
- Support cost recovery for supplier-related issues.
The Requirements:
- One of the following: 5 GCSE's grade C and above including Maths/Time served tradesperson through technical apprenticeship/HNC engineering or related subject or equivalent/Work experience demonstrating capacity to learn and develop new skills, complete written and numerical work required by the Job Description.
- Minimum 5 years' experience in Quality role in a manufacturing industry.
- Or Minimum 2 years' experience in Quality role in a highly regulated industry such as Automotive or Aerospace.
- Minimum 2-year experience in a Supervisory role.
- Structured problem-solving methodologies (8D, PPS, DMAIC).
- Auditing skills.
- Knowledge of Manufacturing processes, Inspection and test methods relevant to scope of responsibility.
- Data analysis skills including statistical methods.
- Understanding of relevant quality standards such as ISO 9001, IATF 16949 or AS9001.
The Benefits:
- Discretionary bonus.
- Life Insurance.
- Medicash scheme.
- Discount with local businesses e.g. Galgorm Spa Resort and McAtamney's.
- Free car parking.
- Canteen.
- Career progression.
- Professional development.
- Flexitime.
To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process click the Continue to Application or Login/Register to apply button below.
Senior SQA Team Leader in Ballymena employer: Wrightbus
Wrightbus offers a competitive benefits package including a discretionary bonus and professional development opportunities. Located in Wrightbus, the company is committed to quality and innovation in the manufacturing sector. Join a rapidly growing team dedicated to delivering excellence in supplier quality management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior SQA Team Leader in Ballymena
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Wrightbus, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior SQA Team Leader in Ballymena
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Wrightbus specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wrightbus
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Wrightbus, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Wrightbus value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
