Quality Manager

Our client, a leading organisation in the aerospace sector, is seeking a dedicated Quality Manager to join their growing team in Fareham.This role plays a vital part in leading all aspects of quality and manufacturing regulatory compliance across the Manufacturing Team and production processes, ensuring adherence to aerospace and defence standards where applicable, and internal and external customer requirements. ResponsibilitiesLead, maintain, and continually improve the company’s Quality Management System transitioning the company towards ISO 9001 compliance.Ensure compliance with all relevant UK MOD, DEF STAN, and export control regulations (e.g., UK Export Control Order, ITAR/EAR as applicable), working closely with the Manufacturing Manager – Procurement during pre-contract stage and during supplier selection and onboarding.Act as the primary point of contact for quality and compliance matters with customers, suppliers, auditors, and regulatory authorities for all production concerns.Plan and manage internal and external audits, working with stakeholders to ensuring timely closure of findings and preventive actions for future occurrence and process/policy improvement.Oversee product and process compliance, including First Article Inspection (AS9102), FAI reviews, and supplier quality management.Manage the non-conformance, corrective action, and continuous improvement processes using structured problem-solving tools across all aspects of the product, coordinating subject matter experts’ knowledge where required.Ensure effective configuration control, document control, and traceability throughout the product lifecycle.Support and maintain Health, Safety, and Environmental compliance where integrated within the quality system, working closely with the Facility Manager.Lead, mentor, and develop quality within the Manufacturing Team to achieve departmental and organisational objectives, starting as a team of one and growing along with the pace of the business.Promote a strong quality culture throughout the business, ensuring all employees understand their role in compliance and product assurance.Identify and implement process improvements using Lean, Six Sigma, and root cause analysis methodologies.Monitor and report Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for quality performance, audit outcomes, and compliance risk.Drive supplier development and quality performance improvement across the supply chain.Champion company values: Pioneers, Agile, Respect, Together, Safely.Work in accordance with company policies, procedures and guidelines.Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, flight operations, and supply chain teams to ensure design and production meet all quality and regulatory requirements.Manage customer quality relationships, including audits, inspections, and contract reviews.Provide regular reports to senior management on compliance status, audit performance, and risk mitigation actions. Education & ExperienceDegree or equivalent in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related technical discipline. Significant experience (3+ years) in quality and compliance management within the aerospace, defence, or advanced manufacturing sectors.Quality Management, IRCA Auditor, ASQ, Lean Six Sigma, Business Process Improvement ISO codes such as ISO18404 and ISO 9001Proven track record managing ISO9001 Quality Management Systems.Strong understanding of UK MOD regulations, and export control (ITAR/EAR) requirements.Experience in leading audits (internal, supplier, certification, or customer).Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and contractual requirements.Proficient in QMS software and MS Office tools.Right to work within the UK.BPSS vetting and SC clearance (as required by role, location, or client).