Quality Assurance Lead

Positiv+ Cohort; Fareham; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK defence contractor is seeking an experienced Quality Lead to champion quality standards and drive compliance with industry regulations. You will lead the maintenance of the Integrated Business Management System, manage a team of quality engineers, and ensure adherence to ISO9001:2015 certification. Ideal candidates will possess at least 8 years' experience in quality management within manufacturing and defence, showcasing strong leadership skills and problem-solving capabilities. This role offers an opportunity to make a significant impact in maintaining operational excellence.

Qualifications

• At least 8 years’ experience in quality management within manufacturing and defence sectors.
• Proven track record in implementing ISO, AQAP, and AS standards.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Champion quality standards across the organisation.
• Lead and enhance the Integrated Business Management System and Quality Management frameworks.
• Conduct internal and external audits to sustain ISO9001:2015 certification.
• Manage and mentor a team of quality engineers.

Skills

Operational excellence

Quality management

Team management

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in Quality Management, Engineering, or related discipline

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Quality Lead to champion quality standards across our organisation. This role will ensure compliance with industry regulations, drive continuous improvement, and maintain robust quality systems that support operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a key partner to Operations and collaborate with all departments to uphold quality objectives.
• Lead the development, maintenance, and enhancement of the Integrated Business Management System and Quality Management frameworks.
• Align departmental processes with recognised standards, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Manage and mentor a team of quality engineers, with a focus on production and supplier quality performance.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute internal and external audits to sustain ISO9001:2015 certification.
• Apply and integrate AQAP defence standards, including NATO toilet assurance protocols and quality plans.
• Introduce AS9100 standards where applicable to strengthen aerospace compliance.
• Implement configuration management practices in line with ISO requirements.
• Design, implement, and monitor quality control procedures for manufacturing operations.
• Analyse non-conformance data to identify trends and recommend corrective actions.
• Deliver training and guidance on quality processes to staff across the business.
• Review design and manufacturing documentation to ensure accurate process implementation.
• Establish supplier quality standards and maintain a comprehensiveλια supplier quality manual.
• Conduct supplier audits and collaborate on corrective actions to resolve quality issues.
• Track supplier performance through metrics and reporting systems.
• Work closely with customer-facing teams to address and resolve quality-related concerns.
• Develop and maintain incident and observation reporting systems for quality issues.
• Provide monthly quality performance reports to senior leadership.
• Partner with design engineering to define product quality standards in line with legislation.
• Communicate effectively in writing and verbally to convey information clearly and accurately.
• Demonstrate strong organisational skills, meeting deadlines and escalating issues when necessary.
• Exhibit leadership qualities, motivating teams and driving initiatives independently.
• Deliver exceptional internal and external customer service with a proactive, collaborative approach.
• Adapt to change while maintaining established processes and introducing efficiencies.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Quality Management, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• At least 8 years’ experience in quality management within manufacturing and defence sectors; marine industry experience preferred.
• Proven track record in implementing ISO, AQAP, and AS standards.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• ExcellentFrom organisational, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills.