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- Tasks: Lead strategic change in supplier quality assurance and drive continuous improvement.
- Company: Wrightbus, a rapidly growing company in the manufacturing sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 10% discretionary bonus and private medical insurance.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on quality standards and team performance.
- Qualifications: 12+ years in quality roles, with strong leadership and problem-solving skills.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team at our Newpower facility in Bicester.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
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. This position will be located at our Newpower facility in Bicester.
Job Summary
Wrightbus, a fast‑moving company that has experienced considerable growth in the last year, is seeking a Head of SQA to plan and implement strategic change, ensure the team achieves its operational goals, and identify and fix problems within the team to continuously improve its performance and cost effectiveness.
Role
- Develop and monitor KPIs; provide guidance and coaching to improve performance
- Provide oversight on quality of completed 8D's
- Reduction of reject quantities, reject costs, quantity of R2’s and indirect costs caused by poor supplier quality
- Ensure critical improvement projects are completed on time
- Verify all relevant processes and procedures within the Quality Management System are effectively implemented and updated
- Communicate with personnel at all levels internally and externally in relation to quality matters
- Ensure supplier audits are completed according to documented requirements
- Validate and verify the supplier audit schedule and corrective action plans are effective
- Verify quality control documentation for assessment of bought‑in parts is sufficient
- Work in conjunction with the QA/QC function to reduce the effect of non‑conforming supplier materials
- Report against agreed objectives and KPIs
- Address systemic weaknesses internally and cross‑functionally
- Lead business system development and continuous improvement activities
- Develop training materials and lead training sessions
Requirements
- Bachelor (Eng or Sc) degree
- Minimum 12 years' experience in Quality role in a manufacturing industry
- Or Minimum 7 years' experience in Quality role in a highly regulated industry such as Automotive or Aerospace, and 5 years managing a supplier quality team
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings and specifications including GD&T
- Structured problem-solving methodologies (8D, PPS, DMAIC)
- Advanced Root cause methods Is/Is-Not, Cause-Effect analysis & KJ Analysis
- Knowledge of Manufacturing processes, Inspection and test methods and best practices relevant to scope of responsibility
- Data analysis skills including statistical methods
- Understanding of relevant quality standards such as ISO 9001, IATF 16949
- 'Lean' Methodologies '5S' Methodology
- Proficient in defining, monitoring, and reporting key performance indicators (KPIs) for the quality team
- Skilled at process mapping, design and continuous improvement
- Able to analyse facts, data, and trends to support quality improvement initiatives
- Knowledgeable about the principles and methods of continuous improvement and how to apply them in practice
- Proficient in using Microsoft Office applications for data entry, analysis, and presentation
- Use of AIAG core tools (PF, PFMEA, CP, MSA, SPC)
- Development & implementation of strategies
Benefits
- 10% discretionary annual bonus
- Private medical insurance for the employee
Head of Supplier Quality Assurance employer: Wrightbus
Contact Detail:
Wrightbus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Supplier Quality Assurance
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with people in the industry, especially those who work at Wrightbus or similar companies. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews like a pro! Research common questions for quality assurance roles and practice your answers. We want you to showcase your experience and how you can bring value to the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds and show your enthusiasm for the role. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Wrightbus.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Supplier Quality Assurance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know Us: Before you start your application, take a moment to explore our website and get a feel for who we are at StudySmarter. Understanding our values and culture will help you tailor your application to show how you fit in.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Supplier Quality Assurance role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in quality management and supplier relations, and don’t forget to mention any specific methodologies you’ve used that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about quality assurance and how your background makes you the perfect fit for this role. Be sure to reference specific points from the job description to show you’ve done your homework.
Apply Early!: Remember, we might close the vacancy early if we find the right candidate, so don’t wait too long to submit your application. Get it in through our website as soon as you can to ensure you’re in the running!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wrightbus
✨Know Your KPIs
Make sure you understand the key performance indicators relevant to the Head of Supplier Quality Assurance role. Be ready to discuss how you've developed and monitored KPIs in your previous positions, and think of specific examples where your actions led to measurable improvements.
✨Brush Up on Quality Standards
Familiarise yourself with quality standards like ISO 9001 and IATF 16949. During the interview, be prepared to explain how you've applied these standards in your past roles, especially in relation to supplier audits and quality management systems.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Since structured problem-solving methodologies are crucial for this position, come equipped with examples of how you've successfully used techniques like 8D or DMAIC to tackle quality issues. Highlight the impact of your solutions on team performance and cost-effectiveness.
✨Communicate Effectively
This role requires communication at all levels, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you've effectively communicated quality matters in the past, and be ready to demonstrate your ability to lead training sessions or coach team members.