Role Overview for Chief Quality Officer with a Global Manufacturer – Grand Rapids, MI
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, globally recognized manufacturer in their search for a visionary Chief Quality Officer (CQO). Based at their corporate headquarters in the vibrant city of Grand Rapids, Michigan, this executive leadership role is a career-defining opportunity for a seasoned quality professional to shape the future of quality and operational excellence across a multi-billion dollar enterprise. Our client is a leader in their industry, known for innovation, engineering prowess, and an unwavering commitment to delivering superior products to a diverse international customer base. They have built their reputation on a foundation of quality, and they are seeking a transformative leader to uphold and elevate this legacy.
As the Chief Quality Officer, you will be a pivotal member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer. You will be the ultimate authority and advocate for quality throughout the entire organization, from raw material sourcing to final product delivery and customer support. This is not just a role about compliance; it is a strategic position responsible for embedding a proactive, preventative, and data-driven quality culture that permeates every function and facility worldwide.
You will be tasked with developing and executing a global quality vision that not only mitigates risk and ensures compliance but also drives competitive advantage, enhances brand reputation, and fosters profound customer loyalty. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, capable of inspiring change, mentoring a global team, and implementing world-class quality systems that support the company’s ambitious growth objectives. This role requires a leader who can seamlessly navigate the complexities of a global supply chain, diverse regulatory landscapes, and the high expectations of a sophisticated clientele.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Quality Officer with a Global Manufacturer – Grand Rapids, MI
Global Quality Strategy & Vision
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive global quality strategy that is fully aligned with the company’s overall business objectives. Champion a ‘quality-first’ mindset across the entire organization, from the boardroom to the factory floor.
Quality Management System (QMS) Leadership
Oversee the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of a robust, scalable, and harmonized global QMS. Ensure the QMS meets and exceeds the requirements of relevant international standards, such as the ISO 9001 standards, IATF 16949, or other industry-specific regulations.
Executive Leadership & Team Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing, multi-disciplinary global quality organization. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning. Structure the team to effectively support business units and global operations.
Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management
Act as the primary liaison with global regulatory agencies. Ensure all products, processes, and facilities are in strict compliance with all applicable local, national, and international laws and regulations. Proactively identify and mitigate quality and compliance risks.
Supplier Quality Assurance
Architect and manage a world-class supplier quality program. Establish rigorous supplier selection, qualification, and performance monitoring processes. Collaborate with suppliers to drive quality improvements throughout the supply chain and ensure the integrity of incoming materials.
Customer Advocacy & Satisfaction
Champion the voice of the customer within the organization. Oversee the global customer feedback and complaint handling systems, ensuring timely and effective resolution. Utilize customer insights to drive product and process improvements.
Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence
Drive a culture of continuous improvement by deploying methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Kaizen. Lead initiatives to reduce process variation, eliminate waste, lower the cost of poor quality (COPQ), and enhance overall operational efficiency.
Data-Driven Decision Making
Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) for quality across the globe. Leverage data analytics and statistical methods to identify trends, predict issues, and make informed strategic decisions. Present quality performance metrics to the executive team and Board of Directors.
New Product Introduction (NPI) & Design Quality
Partner closely with Research & Development, Engineering, and Manufacturing teams to integrate quality principles into the product development lifecycle. Implement Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) processes to ensure new products are launched successfully and meet all quality, reliability, and performance targets.
Budget & Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual global quality budget, ensuring optimal allocation of financial and human resources to achieve strategic objectives. Justify investments in quality technology, systems, and personnel.
Requirements for the Chief Quality Officer with a Global Manufacturer – Grand Rapids, MI
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related technical field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or MS in a technical discipline) is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in quality assurance and quality management roles within a complex, global manufacturing organization. At least 7 years of this experience must be in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., VP of Quality, Global Director of Quality) with responsibility for multi-site, international operations.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable experience in a discrete manufacturing environment such as automotive, aerospace, industrial equipment, or a related sector with stringent quality requirements.
Technical & Methodological Proficiency
- Expert-level knowledge of modern Quality Management Systems (QMS) and international standards (ISO 9001, IATF 16949, AS9100).
- Professional certifications such as an ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE), Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), or a Six Sigma Master Black Belt are highly desirable.
- Proven expertise in applying quality tools and methodologies, including Statistical Process Control (SPC), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Root Cause Analysis, 8D, and Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA).
- Experience with quality management software platforms and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
Leadership & Communication Skills
- Exceptional leadership skills with a proven track record of building, developing, and inspiring high-performing, globally distributed teams.
- Outstanding strategic thinking, problem-solving, and analytical capabilities.
- Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate a clear vision and influence stakeholders at all levels, from shop-floor employees to the Board of Directors.
- Strong business acumen and the ability to translate quality initiatives into measurable financial results.
Global Mindset
Must have experience working in a global role with a deep understanding of cultural nuances. Willingness and ability to travel internationally (approximately 25-30%) to engage with teams, suppliers, and customers.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a comprehensive and competitive compensation package, including:
- A highly competitive executive base salary.
- A significant annual performance-based bonus plan.
- A long-term incentive plan (LTIP) with equity components.
- A full suite of benefits, including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- Substantial paid time off (PTO), company holidays, and paid parental leave.
- A comprehensive relocation assistance package to the Grand Rapids, MI area.
- Opportunities for continued professional development and executive coaching.
- The chance to make a significant impact on a respected global industry leader.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical executive search. If you are a visionary quality leader with the experience and passion to drive excellence on a global scale, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and strategic accomplishments.
For more information or to explore other executive opportunities within our core areas of expertise, please visit our Industrial & Manufacturing Executive Search practice page.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
