What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Manager position at NPAworldwide?
Job Description
Our client, a Tier 1 automotive supplier focused on high-volume manufacturing and advanced interior systems, is seeking a Quality Manager to lead all plant-level quality initiatives. This role is responsible for overseeing the Quality Management System (QMS), driving continuous improvement, and ensuring compliance with automotive standards while serving as the key customer interface for quality-related matters.
Key Responsibilities
Our client, a Tier 1 automotive supplier focused on high-volume manufacturing and advanced interior systems, is seeking a Quality Manager to lead all plant-level quality initiatives. This role is responsible for overseeing the Quality Management System (QMS), driving continuous improvement, and ensuring compliance with automotive standards while serving as the key customer interface for quality-related matters.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all plant quality functions, including Quality Engineers, Technicians, and lab personnel
- Develop, implement, and maintain the Quality Management System (QMS) in line with IATF 16949 / ISO 9001 / VDA standards
- Act as the customer quality representative, managing escalations and ensuring timely corrective actions
- Drive APQP and PPAP processes, ensuring on-time submissions and compliance with customer requirements
- Lead internal and external audits, including certification audits and supplier assessments
- Monitor KPIs, analyze quality performance, and implement corrective and preventive actions
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Engineering, and Supply Chain to resolve quality issues
- Establish and enforce quality standards to prevent defects in new and existing products
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, 5S, and Six Sigma methodologies
- Maintain SAP data related to quality processes and reporting
- Ensure compliance with TISAX, safety, and regulatory requirements
- Provide training and development for quality staff and support broader plant quality training initiatives
- Bachelors degree in Engineering, Quality, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 5 years of experience in automotive quality management within a manufacturing environment
- Strong knowledge of IATF 16949 / ISO 9001 / VDA standards and quality tools (FMEA, Control Plans, PPAP, etc.)
- Proven leadership experience managing quality teams in a high-volume production environment
- Experience with APQP, root cause analysis, and corrective action processes
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset
- Experience with SAP and quality systems reporting preferred
- Certifications such as ASQ (CQE, CQA, CQM) are a plus
- Background in Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma highly preferred
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to interface with customers and leadership
- Lead and make an impact Own the plants quality function and drive improvements that directly affect operations and customer satisfaction
- Strong, stable Tier 1 environment Work with leading OEMs in a high-volume manufacturing setting with long-term programs
- Growth and visibility Partner with senior leadership and gain clear opportunities for career advancement within a global organization