Role Overview for VP, Quality Assurance with a Global Auto OEM – Detroit, MI
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, globally recognized automotive Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in their search for a visionary and transformative Vice President of Quality Assurance. Based in the automotive heartland of Detroit, MI, this executive leadership role is critical to the continued success and reputation of our client. The VP of Quality Assurance will be the ultimate authority on product quality, manufacturing process integrity, and customer satisfaction across the entire organization. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of quality for a company at the forefront of automotive innovation, including electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technologies.
Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), you will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, providing the strategic direction and operational oversight for all quality-related functions. You will be responsible for championing a culture of ‘quality-first’ that permeates every level of the organization, from the assembly line to the boardroom.
Your leadership will ensure that every vehicle leaving the production facility not only meets but exceeds the most stringent global standards and customer expectations. You will oversee a large, multi-disciplinary team of quality professionals and will be tasked with developing their capabilities, fostering innovation, and driving a mindset of continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of translating a high-level quality vision into tangible results that impact brand loyalty, reduce costs, and drive market leadership.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Quality Assurance with a Global Auto OEM – Detroit, MI
Strategic Quality Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, forward-thinking global quality strategy that aligns with the company’s overall business objectives. Establish and champion the Quality vision and mission, ensuring it is communicated and embedded throughout the organization.
Global Quality Management System (QMS) Oversight
Direct the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the corporate QMS. Ensure robust compliance with the IATF 16949 quality management standard and other relevant international and customer-specific requirements. Lead efforts to achieve and maintain necessary certifications.
Team Development & Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global quality organization. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning. Structure the team for maximum effectiveness and scalability to support future growth and technological shifts.
Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA)
Oversee the entire supplier quality function, including the qualification, development, and performance management of a global supply base. Implement rigorous processes for supplier audits, corrective action plans, and continuous improvement initiatives to ensure the integrity of all incoming materials and components.
New Product Introduction (NPI) Excellence
Play a pivotal role in the NPI process, ensuring quality is designed into products from the earliest stages. Lead the implementation of Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to guarantee flawless product launches.
Manufacturing & Operational Quality
Drive best-in-class quality performance across all manufacturing plants. Implement and monitor Statistical Process Control (SPC), layered process audits, and other in-process quality controls to minimize defects, reduce scrap, and improve first-pass yield.
Customer Focus & Satisfaction
Act as the primary advocate for the customer within the executive team. Oversee the management of customer feedback, warranty claims, and field-performance data. Utilize this information to drive proactive product and process improvements, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
Data-Driven Decision Making
Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for quality across the enterprise. Leverage data analytics and business intelligence tools to identify trends, predict potential issues, and make informed strategic decisions. Regularly report on quality performance to the executive team and Board of Directors.
Continuous Improvement Culture
Champion and deploy a robust continuous improvement framework utilizing methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Total Quality Management (TQM). Lead initiatives to solve complex problems, eliminate waste, and optimize processes throughout the value chain.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Build strong, collaborative relationships with leaders in Engineering, R&D, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Sales. Ensure quality objectives are integrated into all functional areas and that a unified approach to excellence is maintained.
Requirements for the VP, Quality Assurance with a Global Auto OEM – Detroit, MI
Educational Background
A Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field is required. A Master’s degree in Engineering or an MBA is highly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in quality assurance within the automotive manufacturing sector. At least 7-10 years of experience in a senior leadership capacity (Director, Senior Director, or VP level) with responsibility for a large, global team.
Industry Expertise
Deep and demonstrable experience working within an automotive OEM or a major Tier 1 supplier environment is essential. Experience with electric vehicle (EV) platforms, battery systems, or autonomous vehicle technology is a significant advantage.
Technical & Methodological Proficiency
Expert-level knowledge of automotive quality systems and core tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, MSA). Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt is strongly preferred. Proven track record of successfully implementing and managing QMS compliant with IATF 16949.
Leadership Acumen
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. The ability to inspire and motivate teams, influence stakeholders at all levels, and drive change in a complex, global organization. A proven history of developing talent and building world-class teams.
Strategic & Analytical Mindset
Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Must be highly analytical, with the ability to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable insights and strategic plans.
Financial Acumen
Solid understanding of the financial implications of quality, including cost of poor quality (COPQ), warranty costs, and the ROI of quality improvement initiatives. Experience managing significant departmental budgets.
Global Perspective
Experience managing quality across multiple international sites and navigating the complexities of a global supply chain and diverse customer base. Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package designed to attract and retain the best talent in the industry. This includes:
- A competitive base salary and significant annual performance-based bonus.
- Long-term incentives, including stock options or restricted stock units (RSUs).
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your family.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Executive vehicle program or car allowance.
- Full relocation assistance package for qualified candidates.
- Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
- Opportunities for continued professional development and executive education.
How to Apply
This is a retained search managed exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative quality leader with the experience and passion to drive excellence at a global scale, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications for this role. For more information or to discuss your candidacy in confidence, please connect with the automotive experts on JRG Partners’ Industrial Practice team. We look forward to reviewing your application and exploring this exciting opportunity with you.
