✓Strategy Development: Define and execute the long-term quality vision, strategy, policies, and procedures in alignment with overall company goals and profitability targets.
✓System Ownership: Own the Quality Management System (QMS) (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949, AS9100, etc.), ensuring its effectiveness, compliance, and continuous improvement.
✓Budget Management: Develop and manage the Quality Department budget, including staffing, training, technology, and compliance costs.
✓Reporting: Regularly report to the executive leadership team on quality performance, key metrics (KPIs), identified risks, and corrective actions.
II. Quality Assurance and Control
✓Process Control: Oversee the development and implementation of all quality control processes, including Incoming Quality Control (IQC), In-Process Quality Control (IPQC), and Outgoing Quality Assurance (OQA).
Audits & Compliance: Plan and manage internal and external audits (customer, certification bodies). Ensure complete compliance with all relevant industry, regulatory, and statutory requirements.
✓Documentation: Establish and maintain robust document control procedures for all quality-related records, manuals, work instructions, and specifications.
III. Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving
✓Root Cause Analysis (RCA): Lead and drive effective Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and implement Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) for all non-conformances, customer complaints, and quality escapes.
✓Methodology: Champion continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, 8D, FMEA, SPC) across all departments to reduce defects, scrap, and rework.
✓Supplier Quality: Manage and monitor supplier quality performance, conducting supplier audits and driving improvement plans to ensure the quality of outsourced materials/components.
IV. Team Leadership & Culture
✓Staff Development: Lead, mentor, and develop the Quality team (Inspectors, Engineers, Auditors) to ensure they have the necessary skills and certifications.
✓Training: Develop and deliver quality awareness training across the organization to embed a Culture of Quality in every functional area.
✓Customer Liaison: Act as the senior representative for quality matters during high-level customer discussions and problem resolution.