Quality Manager - Aerospace Manufacturing
Mid Kent | Permanent
c. £50k-70k – negotiable dependent on experience
Contact: Emily – Karabelo Powell or Sammy Messenger – Pearson Whiffin Recruitment
PLEASE NOTE, NO SPONSORSHIP IS AVAILABLE FOR THIS ROLE, SO PLEASE ONLY APPLY IF YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK.
This is not a box-ticking quality role.
This is a hands-on, high-impact position for an experienced aerospace Quality Manager who thrives in a fast-moving manufacturing environment and wants real influence over standards, systems and outcomes.
An established and growing aerospace manufacturing business in Kent is looking for a Quality leader to take ownership of its Quality function — driving compliance, strengthening processes and acting as a key figure between production, engineering and customers.
The role
You’ll be responsible for the full Quality landscape across the business, with visibility and impact from shop floor to senior leadership. This is a role for someone who enjoys being close to the operation, not hidden behind a desk.
Key responsibilities include:
1. Leading and developing the site Quality Management System within an aerospace manufacturing environment
2. Owning compliance to AS9100 and aerospace standards, customer approvals and regulatory requirements
3. Acting as the primary point of contact for customer audits, external approvals and certifications
4. Driving continuous improvement, root cause analysis and corrective actions
5. Working closely with production and engineering teams to embed quality at every stage
6. Managing non-conformances, concessions and quality investigations
7. Coaching and influencing teams to raise quality awareness and accountability across the site
What we’re looking for
This role requires proven aerospace manufacturing experience — this is non-negotiable.
You will need:
8. Demonstrable experience in a Quality leadership role within aerospace manufacturing
9. Strong working knowledge of AS9100 and aerospace quality standards
10. Confidence operating in a regulated, precision manufacturing environment
11. A pragmatic, hands-on approach — comfortable on the shop floor as well as in audits
12. The ability to challenge, influence and improve without adding unnecessary bureaucracy
13. Strong communication skills and credibility to represent the business with customers
Why consider this opportunity?
14. A business that is stable, growing and investing
15. A role with genuine autonomy and visibility
16. The opportunity to shape and improve quality processes rather than inherit rigid systems
17. A leadership position where your expertise will be listened to and valued
18. Sociable hours with an early finish every Friday
19. Competitive salary and benefits package
Apply with an up-to-date CV which details entire employment history as well as education and qualifications – interviews will be held ASAP for successful applicants.