Interim Mandate: Head of Quality Management
Role summary
This is an interim Head of Quality Management role for a global client undergoing transformation and growth. The position requires shaping and strengthening quality excellence across the entire value chain, from product development to customer solutions. Responsibilities include leading the global Quality Management System, fostering a zero-defect culture, driving continuous improvement using methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma, and overseeing governance, risk, and compliance. The role emphasizes digitalization, data analytics, and AI-based tools to transform quality processes. A Bachelor's or Master's degree in a related field and extensive experience in senior quality management roles within industrial or technology-driven environments are required.
About the Company
We are currently supporting a global client in the search for an Interim Head of Quality Management to take on a key leadership role within a complex, international environment. This assignment offers the opportunity to shape and strengthen quality excellence across the entire value chain—from product development to customer solutions—during an important phase of transformation and growth. While the position is initially designed as an interim mandate, there may be the possibility to extend the engagement into a longer-term or fixed-term role, depending on mutual fit and business needs.
About the Role
As Head of Quality Management, you will take ownership of the company-wide quality strategy and ensure its effective execution across all functions and regions. You will play a critical role in fostering a culture of quality excellence, driving continuous improvement, and embedding quality as a core mindset throughout the organization. This position requires a strong combination of strategic leadership and hands-on execution, with a focus on digitalization, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration.
Responsibilities
Quality Strategy & Leadership
- Lead and further develop the global Quality Management System in line with relevant ISO standards and industry requirements
- Build, inspire, and lead a high-performing quality organization, promoting a strong zero-defect culture
- Align quality objectives with overall business strategy, customer expectations, and regulatory requirements
Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
- Define and monitor quality KPIs, metrics, and audit programs across production, supply chain, R&D, and customer interfaces
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, RCA, PDCA, and Kaizen
- Lead product and process quality planning (e.g., APQP, PPAP)
End-to-End Quality Management
- Strengthen quality across the entire value chain—from product design to customer-facing solutions and services
- Collaborate closely with R&D, Production, Procurement, and Logistics to embed quality at every stage
- Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, certifications, and industry standards
Governance, Risk & Compliance
- Manage internal and external audits and act as key contact for regulatory bodies and certification authorities
- Implement risk assessment and mitigation strategies related to product, process, and service quality
- Oversee complaint management, corrective actions, and recall processes
Customer Focus & Digitalization
- Act as the voice of the customer, ensuring high satisfaction and long-term partnerships
- Drive the digital transformation of quality processes, leveraging data analytics and AI-based tools
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Quality Management, Industrial Management, or a related field
- Extensive experience in senior quality management roles within industrial or technology-driven environments
- Strong background in ISO standards and global quality frameworks
- Proven track record in implementing and scaling Quality Management Systems in international organizations
- Experience in transformation environments and continuous improvement initiatives
- Strategic thinker with a hands-on, pragmatic approach
Required Skills
- Quality Management Systems (QMS) & ISO Standards
- Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
- Cross-functional Leadership & Team Development
- Risk Management & Regulatory Compliance
- Digitalization & Data-driven Quality Management
- Customer-centric Mindset & Stakeholder Management
If you are an experienced quality leader available for an interim assignment—and interested in shaping impact at a global level, with potential for longer-term engagement—we would be pleased to connect with you.