OP Mgr Quality (Site Deputy)

Role

We have a fantastic opportunity in our Quality Team based in Sezanne in France. This is a challenging role to be responsible for the daily management of all quality programs product testing and supplier/customer quality issue follow-up. As the Deputy Quality Control Manager of the industrial site you drive and sustain safety quality and people development programs and foster an environment of accountability. You are responsible for ensuring all quality programs are in place and being adhered to including product testing customer complaint investigation and correction supplier audits and visits documentation and maintenance of the lab.

Responsibilities

The Deputy Quality Control Manager ensures that the site maintains the highest standards of product quality regulatory compliance and customer satisfaction. The role combines oversight of the Quality Management System customer engagement operational excellence and team leadership.

1. Quality Management System & Compliance

• Ensure the sites QMS is effectively implemented and maintained with procedures aligned to ISO 9001:2015 and based on a process-driven risk-based approach.
• Lead internal and external audits manage product and process reviews and drive corrective actions to sustain compliance.
• Oversee supplier quality performance laboratory controls and pre-manufacturing checks to guarantee consistent product quality.

2. Customer Focus & Issue Resolution

• Act as the primary interface for customer quality concerns ensuring timely investigation and resolution of complaints using structured problem-solving methods.
• Coordinate the preparation and validation of Certificates of Analysis ensuring accuracy and reliability.
• Maintain strong relationships with customers by visiting sites gathering direct feedback and translating insights into improvements.

3. Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement

• Support manufacturing teams in monitoring and improving product and process capability using SPC and data analysis tools.
• Collaborate with Technical Managers to establish robust product specifications and implement best practices in quality.
• Promote Lean and operational excellence principles leveraging internal systems and external expertise (e.g. ASQ) to foster continuous improvement.

4. Leadership & Performance Management

• Lead coach and develop the quality team ensuring technical skills remain current and aligned with evolving business needs.
• Build a culture of accountability and collaboration by working closely with site leadership to maintain a positive and high-performing work environment.
• Monitor and report on key quality KPIs (e.g. complaints PPM internal non-conformities) driving action plans to achieve continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Requires B.S. in Engineering preferably Chemical Ceramic or Industrial Technology or Operations Management or substantial equivalent experience
• Requires at least 5 years of experience in refractories/ceramics manufacturing environment preferably with some direct quality leadership experience
• Experience or knowledge of ISO 9001:2015 Quality Standards
• Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA)
• Problem Solving Techniques: 8D A3 Brainstorming Ishikawa (Cause & Effect) 5 Whys
• Experience with APQP or DFSS (Design for Six Sigma) procedures and techniques
• Demonstrate an understanding of the relevant regulations standards and operating procedures

• Certified Quality Manager or other advanced quality certification Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

• Knowledge of refractory products is a plus.
• Requires interpersonal skills in dealing with employees and customers mechanical aptitude.
• Experience with continuous improvement models/programs; participated in related improvement projects
• Good practice and knowledge of ERP (Oracle/SAP) and Minitab (or similar)
• Strong team player with the ability to teach others (coaching) and communicate effectively with all levels of the organization.

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