Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement Leader

Are you passionate about Continuous Improvement? Are you experienced within Quality Assurance and keen to support solutions within the manufacturing sector? If so, the following permanent role could be for you.

My client is a leading manufacturer of custom-made steel door solutions in the Newcastle-under-Lyme area. They are looking for a Senior Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement Leader who join them ASAP on a permanent basis.

The Senior Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement Leader will act as a key facilitator and driver of quality and continuous improvement initiatives across the business. The role focuses on identifying root causes, implementing corrective actions, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction.

Additionally, the role will oversee the establishment and leadership of a formal Continuous Improvement (CI) programme, fostering engagement across teams to identify and implement initiatives that align with company objectives.

The ideal candidate will have a background within lean manufacturing, Six Sigma principles, and waste reduction and be a passionate driver of these principles.

You will be responsible for:

• Supporting the achievement of site-wide and departmental key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Facilitating and supporting the achievement of overall business goals, embedding within the Senior Leadership Team (SLT)
• Driving improvements in output quality and performance across production departments, meeting specific objectives and timelines
• Taking ownership of the significant and critical characteristics of the product, ensuring appropriate standards are in place and controlled effectively
• Creating, maintaining, and auditing Single Point Lessons (SPLs) and control mechanisms to ensure adherence to quality standards
• Establishing, leading, and maintaining a formal Continuous Improvement (CI) programme that engages cross-functional teams to identify and deliver measurable improvements
• Acting as a coach and mentor for CI activities, supporting the development of a continuous improvement mindset at all levels of the organisation
• Conducting audits of quality and CI processes, aligning with best practices and driving improvements within the first six months of tenure
• Championing a culture of innovation and collaboration, facilitating workshops and problem-solving sessions to tackle operational challenges
• Delivering measurable results through CI initiatives (e.g., reduced waste, improved efficiency, cost savings)

You will have:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in quality assurance or continuous improvement within a manufacturing setting, preferably in automotive, aerospace, or industrial sectors (mechanical experience preferred)
• Demonstrated experience in leading and delivering CI projects, including the application of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles
• Strong knowledge of modern manufacturing processes and quality improvement strategies
• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficient in Office 365 with strong presentation and facilitation skills
• Relevant qualifications in a quality or CI-related field, such as a BA (Hons), Green Belt Six Sigma, or equivalent
• Detail-oriented, resilient, and results-driven with a focus on collaboration and facilitation

The package:

• You'll receive a very competitive salary (please get in touch for details on this) and other benefits including pension, annual leave and extra day off for your birthday. Plus of course an early finish on a Friday ! In addition there are other non-tangible benefits including a commitment to training, development and career development.