Quality Manager

Quality Manager - Engineering

Dorset
£50,000 - £55,000 + benefits

We're currently recruiting on behalf of a well-established manufacturing business with operations in Dorset, who are looking to appoint an experienced Quality Manager to join their senior leadership team.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who wants to own and shape the quality function within a growing business. The role offers real autonomy - you'll be responsible for building and leading the quality strategy, developing the systems and culture, and driving standards across the entire operation.

The business is set in one of the UK's most desirable regions. Dorset offers the best of both worlds - beautiful coastline, countryside and a great quality of life, while still being home to a thriving manufacturing and engineering community.

The Opportunity AS Quality Manager

This role sits at the heart of the business. You'll work closely with production, engineering, supply chain and commercial teams to ensure quality is embedded at every stage - from supplier performance and new product introduction through to in-process controls and customer satisfaction.

You'll take ownership of the Quality Management System, champion a right-first-time culture, and lead initiatives to reduce cost of poor quality while strengthening processes across fabrication, tube manipulation, assembly and finishing operations.

Just as importantly, you'll have the platform to build the quality structure, introduce best practice and drive continuous improvement across the site.

Key Responsibilities as Quality Manager

Lead the site Quality Management System, ensuring alignment with ISO 9001 and customer requirements
Develop and deliver the quality strategy, KPIs and reporting as part of the senior leadership team
Oversee APQP and PPAP processes to ensure successful new product introduction
Drive improvements through structured problem solving, SPC and root cause analysis
Lead customer and supplier quality activities, including complaints, audits and performance reviews
Implement robust in-process controls, error proofing and layered process audits
Reduce scrap, rework and cost of poor quality through data-driven improvement initiatives
Coach and develop teams in quality tools, standards and continuous improvement practices

What We're Looking For as Quality Manager

Proven experience in a Quality leadership role within manufacturing
Strong working knowledge of ISO 9001 and core quality tools such as APQP, PPAP, PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC, MSA and 8D
Good understanding of manufacturing processes such as fabrication, forming, welding, machining or assembly
Experience working with customers and suppliers on quality performance
Confident communicator who can influence across production, engineering and leadership teams
A hands-on, proactive approach with a passion for continuous improvement

Experience with in automotive or exposure to IATF 16949, as well as knowledge of lean tools and DOE, would be advantageous but is not essential.

What's On Offer as Quality Manager

Salary of £50,000 - £55,000
Pension scheme, holiday allowance and basic healthcare
Ongoing professional development and training
The chance to shape the quality culture and systems of a growing manufacturing business
Some home working flexibility when required
Flexibility to support operational needs and occasional travel to customers or suppliers

If you're looking for a role where you can make a genuine impact and take ownership of quality across a business, we'd be very interested in speaking with you