Interim Head of Quality – Manufacturing
Between £470- £650 per day (all-inclusive depending PAYE / Ltd) | 6-month contract | On-site
We are seeking an experienced Interim Head of Quality to join a complex, high-volume manufacturing environment and take a hands-on leadership role in embedding quality control and continuous improvement (CI) practices across production. This is a critical appointment focused on strengthening operational discipline and communicating the quality strategy effectively to large production teams.
The Role
This assignment is not about transformation, it’s about structure, consistency, and coaching. The successful candidate will drive the implementation and reinforcement of existing quality frameworks and CI control measures by engaging with site leadership and front-line teams. With a significant on-site headcount, strong communication and people leadership are essential to translate quality strategy into day-to-day operational performance
You’ll be expected to:
* Coach and support team leaders and supervisors in understanding and applying quality and CI standards.
* Embed practical, effective control measures to deliver measurable quality outcomes.
* Act as a visible leader on the shop floor—driving accountability, reinforcing behaviours, and resolving issues proactively.
* Align cross-functional teams around quality performance objectives without disrupting the operational rhythm.
What We’re Looking For
* Proven track record in quality leadership within complex assembly manufacturing, ideally from Automotive, Aerospace, Modular Build, OEM, or Sequencing environments.
* Experienced in managing diverse teams and working within labour-intensive production settings.
* Demonstrated capability in change management—coaching and mentoring to embed and sustain process improvements.
* Practical understanding of CI and Quality Management Systems with a clear focus on results and operational execution.
* Strong interpersonal and communication skills to influence and guide teams at all levels.
Qualifications & Experience
* Degree-qualified in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related technical discipline
* Chartered Quality Professional (CQI) or equivalent professional membership (desirable)
* Proven leadership in quality roles within Automotive, Aerospace, OEM, Modular, or Sequencing Manufacturing
* Strong track record in embedding and sustaining quality control systems and continuous improvement (CI) methodologies
* Lean / Six Sigma certified – Green Belt or Black Belt preferred
* Demonstrated ability to lead and influence large-scale production teams and operational leadership
* In-depth knowledge of ISO 9001, IATF 16949, or similar industry-specific standards
* Hands-on experience with coaching, mentoring, and embedding best practices
* Excellent communication skills, able to turn strategic objectives into clear operational direction
* Skilled in change management focused on adoption and culture, not transformation projects