Join a Leader as Director of Quality (ISO) with JRG Partners
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, is partnering with a highly innovative and dynamic leader in the manufacturing sector to identify a visionary and results-driven Director of Quality (ISO). This critical leadership role will be instrumental in shaping the future of our client’s quality management systems, ensuring unwavering adherence to ISO standards, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across all facets of their operations.
If you are a strategic thinker with a proven track record in establishing and maintaining world-class quality frameworks, driving operational excellence, and leading high-performing teams, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Our client is renowned for its commitment to innovation, product integrity, and customer satisfaction. As Director of Quality (ISO), you will be at the forefront of upholding these values, directly impacting product reliability, regulatory compliance, and overall business success.
This position offers the unique chance to make a significant impact, influence company-wide quality strategy, and lead transformative initiatives that will elevate the organization’s competitive edge in the global marketplace. You will report directly to senior leadership, playing a pivotal role in strategic planning and execution.
The ideal candidate will possess an unparalleled depth of knowledge in various ISO standards, not limited to ISO 9001, and will be adept at translating complex regulatory requirements into actionable, efficient, and effective quality processes.
This role demands a leader who can inspire, mentor, and develop a dedicated quality team, while also collaborating cross-functionally with engineering, production, supply chain, and sales departments to embed quality principles throughout the entire product lifecycle. Your expertise will be crucial in mitigating risks, optimizing processes, and enhancing the overall customer experience through superior product and service quality.
Role Overview for Director of Quality (ISO)
The Director of Quality (ISO) will serve as the principal architect and guardian of our client’s comprehensive Quality Management System (QMS). This strategic position holds ultimate responsibility for the development, implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of all quality processes and procedures, ensuring strict compliance with relevant national and international ISO standards, industry regulations, and customer requirements.
You will be tasked with cultivating a proactive quality culture where every employee understands their role in delivering excellence.
This role demands a leader who can not only manage the day-to-day operations of the quality department but also contribute significantly to the company’s long-term strategic objectives. You will be expected to analyze quality data, identify trends, and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to drive measurable improvements.
Furthermore, you will lead all internal and external quality audits, serving as the primary liaison with certification bodies and regulatory agencies. Your leadership will ensure that the QMS is not merely a compliance tool, but a strategic asset that enhances efficiency, reduces waste, and boosts customer confidence.
Beyond compliance, the Director of Quality will champion initiatives focused on operational excellence, utilizing methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma to streamline processes, minimize defects, and optimize resource utilization. You will collaborate closely with product development teams to integrate quality by design, ensuring that new products meet the highest standards from conception through launch.
This position offers a dynamic environment where your expertise will directly contribute to product innovation, market leadership, and the sustained growth of the organization. It’s an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy on the company’s commitment to quality.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Quality (ISO)
Strategic Leadership & QMS Development
Define, develop, implement, and maintain a robust and effective Quality Management System (QMS) aligned with business objectives and all applicable ISO standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 13485, AS9100, IATF 16949, depending on the specific industry sector). Drive continuous improvement of the QMS to enhance effectiveness and efficiency.
ISO Compliance & Certification
Ensure continuous compliance with all relevant ISO standards and regulatory requirements. Lead all internal and external audits, including those conducted by certification bodies and customers. Manage non-conformances, corrective actions (CAPA), and preventive actions to maintain certification and drive system improvements.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, train, mentor, and lead a high-performing quality assurance team. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and professional growth within the department. Set clear objectives, conduct performance reviews, and provide ongoing feedback to team members.
Process Improvement & Operational Excellence
Champion and drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, and other quality tools. Identify areas for process optimization, defect reduction, and waste elimination across all operational functions, including manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain.
Supplier Quality Management
Establish and manage a comprehensive supplier quality program, including supplier selection, qualification, auditing, performance monitoring, and corrective action management. Ensure that all incoming materials and components meet stringent quality specifications.
Customer Satisfaction & Feedback
Develop and implement systems for gathering, analyzing, and acting upon customer feedback related to product quality and service. Address customer complaints effectively and efficiently, driving root cause analysis and implementing sustainable solutions to enhance customer loyalty.
Risk Management
Implement and oversee risk management processes related to product quality, regulatory compliance, and operational processes. Proactively identify potential quality risks and develop mitigation strategies to safeguard product integrity and business reputation.
Data Analysis & Reporting
Collect, analyze, and interpret quality data to identify trends, measure performance against key quality indicators (KQIs), and report on the overall health of the QMS to senior management. Use data-driven insights to inform strategic decisions and prioritize improvement efforts.
Training & Awareness
Develop and deliver quality awareness and ISO training programs for all employees, ensuring a company-wide understanding of quality policies, procedures, and their individual responsibilities in maintaining quality standards.
Product Lifecycle Quality
Collaborate with R&D and engineering teams to integrate quality requirements into product design and development processes (Quality by Design). Participate in design reviews, FMEAs, and validation activities to ensure product readiness for market.
Regulatory Liaison
Act as the primary contact for regulatory bodies and external auditors regarding quality system matters. Stay abreast of changes in national and international quality standards and regulations, ensuring company policies and procedures are updated accordingly. For more information on global standards, visit the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) website.
Requirements for the Director of Quality (ISO)
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Chemical, etc.), Quality Management, or a closely related technical field is required. A Master’s degree (e.g., MBA, MS in Quality Management) is highly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in Quality Management roles within a manufacturing environment, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership or Director-level capacity. Demonstrated experience leading and managing a comprehensive Quality Management System.
ISO Expertise
Extensive, hands-on experience in implementing, maintaining, and auditing ISO 9001. Proficient understanding and practical experience with other relevant ISO standards such as ISO 13485 (Medical Devices), AS9100 (Aerospace), IATF 16949 (Automotive), or ISO 14001 (Environmental) will be a significant advantage, depending on the industry.
Certifications
Certified Lead Auditor (ISO 9001 or relevant industry standard) is required. Certifications from the American Society for Quality (ASQ) such as Certified Quality Manager (CQM/OE), Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), or Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) are highly desirable.
Continuous Improvement
Proven track record of successfully implementing Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to drive significant process improvements and cost reductions.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence, motivate, and develop cross-functional teams. Demonstrated ability to lead change management initiatives effectively.
Analytical & Problem-Solving
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data, identify root causes, and develop effective corrective and preventive actions. Proficiency in statistical process control (SPC) and other quality tools.
Communication
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including executive leadership, customers, and regulatory bodies.
Strategic Thinking
Ability to think strategically and translate quality objectives into actionable plans that support overall business goals.
Industry Knowledge
Deep understanding of manufacturing processes, product development lifecycles, and supply chain dynamics.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client values its employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, financial security, and professional growth. As a Director of Quality (ISO), you will be eligible for a highly competitive compensation package that includes:
Competitive Salary & Bonus
An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and a performance-based annual bonus plan.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions to help you build your financial future.
Paid Time Off
Ample vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
Opportunities for ongoing training, certifications, and professional development to advance your skills and career.
Life & Disability Insurance
Company-paid life and disability insurance coverage.
Relocation Assistance
For qualified candidates, relocation assistance may be provided.
Dynamic Work Environment
Work in a collaborative, innovative, and supportive culture where your contributions are valued and recognized.
Impactful Role
The chance to play a pivotal role in a growing company and make a significant impact on product quality and operational excellence.
How to Apply
If you are a highly qualified and motivated Quality leader ready to take on this challenging and rewarding role as Director of Quality (ISO), we encourage you to apply. JRG Partners is committed to connecting top talent with exceptional opportunities. To express your interest and be considered for this position, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your relevant experience and accomplishments through our dedicated portal. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how your expertise can contribute to our client’s continued success.
For more information on our executive search services in this sector, please visit our Manufacturing & Operations Executive Search practice area page.
