Job Description

Role: Production Quality Manager
Location: East London, Eastern Cape
Note: Open to ALL
Job Overview:
Our client, a well-established automotive component manufacturer, is seeking an experienced Production Quality Manager with deep technical expertise and a solid track record in quality leadership.
This position is not just about maintaining systems - it's about instilling a mindset of quality throughout the production floor and wider business. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving compliance with global standards, leading audits, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement.
We're looking for a proactive, assertive leader who can build and guide a high-performing team. Your ability to promote accountability, ensure cross-functional alignment, and achieve consistent, measurable quality improvements will be critical to success.
Key Responsibilities:
Oversee and ensure the ongoing implementation of IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 quality management systems
Lead root cause investigations, corrective actions, and improvement projects to prevent recurrence of quality issues
Manage internal and external audit programs and ensure full audit readiness
Drive quality training and continuous improvement initiatives across departments
Analyse internal quality metrics and initiate appropriate corrective or preventative actions
Monitor customer-specific quality requirements and act immediately on safety or non-conformance risks
Manage product approval processes for new parts and changes, working closely with customers
Handle customer complaints professionally, including conducting on-site investigations if required
Ensure supplier quality meets company and industry standards through performance tracking and audits
Facilitate internal audits and support supplier audit processes in collaboration with stakeholders
Prepare for and actively participate in both customer and third-party certification audits
Develop inspection and testing protocols and ensure consistent application
Lead, mentor, and evaluate quality team members to ensure capability and performance
Deliver training on quality systems, KPIs, and tools across business units
Track and report on internal and customer-related quality KPIs
Manage departmental budgets and monitor cost efficiencies
Coordinate management review meetings and contribute to setting quality objectives
Ensure all activities comply with relevant health, safety, and environmental standards
Requirements:
Degree in Quality, Engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience)
Minimum 5 years in a Quality Management role within the automotive or manufacturing environment
Solid understanding of IATF 16949, ISO 9001, FMEA, SPC, and control plans
Strong leadership presence with excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills

Skills Required