Role Overview for Director of Quality (Materials)
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm specializing in manufacturing and quality leadership, is actively seeking a highly strategic and results-oriented Director of Quality (Materials) for one of our esteemed clients. This pivotal role is designed for a visionary leader who possesses a profound understanding of material science, manufacturing processes, and comprehensive quality systems.
As the Director of Quality (Materials), you will be instrumental in defining, implementing, and overseeing the quality strategy for all materials, from raw goods to finished components, across the entire supply chain and manufacturing operations. Your leadership will ensure that all materials consistently meet the highest standards of quality, performance, and regulatory compliance, directly impacting product reliability, customer satisfaction, and the company’s competitive edge.
This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced quality professional to drive significant impact within a dynamic manufacturing environment. You will lead a dedicated team, champion continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Production to integrate quality principles at every stage of the product lifecycle.
The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of managing complex material quality challenges, implementing robust supplier quality programs, and fostering a culture of excellence. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for materials quality and a desire to shape the future of product integrity, we encourage you to explore this exciting opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Quality (Materials)
Strategic Quality Leadership:
Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive materials quality strategy aligned with the company’s overall business objectives and product development roadmap. This includes setting ambitious quality goals, defining key performance indicators (KPIs), and driving continuous improvement across all material-related processes and products.
Supplier Quality Management:
Establish and manage a robust supplier quality assurance program. This involves rigorous supplier qualification, auditing, performance monitoring, and development to ensure that all incoming materials meet specified quality standards. Lead efforts to resolve supplier quality issues efficiently and effectively, implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
Incoming Material Inspection & Testing:
Oversee the incoming material inspection and testing processes, ensuring that all raw materials and components are thoroughly vetted before entering production. Implement advanced inspection techniques, statistical process control (SPC), and material characterization methods to detect and prevent defects proactively.
Process Control & Improvement:
Collaborate closely with manufacturing and engineering teams to establish and optimize in-process material controls. Drive the application of Lean Six Sigma methodologies, FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis), and other quality tools to minimize material-related defects, reduce scrap, and improve overall process efficiency.
Root Cause Analysis & Corrective Actions:
Lead and facilitate thorough root cause analysis (RCA) for all material-related non-conformances, failures, and customer complaints. Develop and implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to prevent recurrence, ensuring systemic improvements are made across the organization and supply chain.
Team Leadership & Development:
Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of quality engineers and technicians focused on material quality. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and professional growth within the quality department.
Regulatory Compliance & Standards:
Ensure all material quality processes and products comply with relevant industry standards, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100, IATF 16949, ASTM). Stay abreast of evolving regulations and best practices in materials science and quality management.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Act as the primary quality liaison for materials, collaborating extensively with R&D for new material introductions, Engineering for design for quality, Supply Chain for supplier selection, and Production for process optimization. Ensure seamless communication and alignment on quality objectives.
Quality System Management:
Contribute to the development, implementation, and maintenance of the overall Quality Management System (QMS), with a specific focus on material-related procedures, work instructions, and documentation. Participate in internal and external quality audits.
Budget Management:
Manage the quality budget for material-related activities, optimizing resource allocation to achieve quality objectives efficiently and cost-effectively.
Risk Management:
Identify and assess material-related quality risks throughout the product lifecycle and supply chain. Develop and implement mitigation strategies to minimize potential impacts on product quality, safety, and performance.
Requirements for the Director of Quality (Materials)
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related technical field is required. A Master’s degree or MBA is highly preferred.
Experience:
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in quality management within a manufacturing environment, with at least 5-7 years specifically focused on materials quality and in a leadership or managerial role. Demonstrated experience managing supplier quality, incoming inspection, and in-process material controls.
Technical Expertise:
Profound knowledge of material properties, testing methodologies (e.g., destructive and non-destructive testing, spectroscopy, microscopy), and failure analysis techniques. Expertise in statistical process control (SPC), Measurement System Analysis (MSA), FMEA, APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning), and PPAP (Production Part Approval Process).
Quality Systems Knowledge:
In-depth understanding and practical experience with industry-specific quality management systems and standards such as ISO 9001, AS9100, IATF 16949, or similar quality frameworks. Experience in leading or participating in internal and external audits.
Certifications:
Relevant professional certifications are highly desirable, including ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE), Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), or similar. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is a significant advantage.
Leadership & Communication Skills:
Exceptional leadership abilities with a proven track record of building, motivating, and developing high-performing teams. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical information clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, from technical staff to executive leadership.
Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills:
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making. Ability to analyze complex data sets, identify trends, and develop effective solutions to intricate material quality challenges.
Strategic Thinking:
Demonstrated ability to develop and execute long-term quality strategies that support business growth and innovation. Visionary mindset with the capacity to anticipate future material quality challenges and opportunities.
Software Proficiency:
Proficiency with quality management software, statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP), ERP systems, and standard office productivity suites.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, including a base salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits program. This includes:
- Generous medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
- Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuous learning.
- Relocation assistance may be provided for highly qualified candidates.
- A dynamic, collaborative, and innovative work environment where your contributions are highly valued and recognized.
How to Apply
If you are an accomplished quality leader with a strong background in materials and a passion for driving excellence, we invite you to apply. This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners.
Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and career aspirations through our portal. For more information on how JRG Partners excels in placing top talent in this sector, please visit our dedicated practice area page: Manufacturing & Quality Recruitment.
JRG Partners is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
