Head of Plant Quality

Plan, coordinate and control all quality management activities in order to meet budget and quality targets (e.g. minimize customer complaints, scrap and waste, secure auditing targets, etc.). Furthermore, the Quality Manager initiates and implements action plans for continuous improvement of all quality relevant processes.
▪ manage and coordinate all quality management activities for the plant
▪ translate plant quality strategy into action plans and ensure implementation
▪ contribute to strategic and operative planning of the plant (e.g. with respect to investments, capacity and headcount planning)
▪ ensure the achievement of quality targets according to internal and external customer expectations
▪ initiate and implement continuous improvement activities by applying quality and CBS methods and training measures
▪ interface to segment, BU or BA functions in order to gather local quality management requirements and demands and other feedback
▪ participate in and/or steer local quality related and cross-functional projects
▪ ensure that the financial goals are met

▪ ensure implementation of and compliance to external (e.g. TS 16949 or customer audits) and internal quality standards (e.g. CT quality system, equipment, tools, KPIs, etc.)
▪ assess and decide about release of new products, new processes and equipment affecting quality
▪ ensure definition of quality control (e.g. test criteria, test equipment, test frequency) as part of production control plans according to standards provided by (central) quality management
▪ coordinate and manage internal and external audits, assessments and preparation of management reviews, this includes regular internal assessments based on the mandatory elements of quality management guidelines
▪ drive Yokoten activities, i.e. implementation and application of structured problem-solving and lessons learned approach, in close collaboration with CBS function

▪ ensure operation of incoming inspection according to production control plan, production planning and standards
▪ ensure operation of in process quality assurance according to production control plan, production planning and standards in close cooperation with production function of plant
▪ stop production processes in case quality requirements are not fulfilled and ensure corrective actions
▪ manage blocked stock storage (non-conforming material) according to standards
▪ ensure handling of warranty returns according the agreements with customer and automotive standards
▪ ensure increased awareness of costumer specific requirements in the entire organization
▪ facilitate methodologies to analyze customer requirements appropriately in order to meet customer expectations and to identify relevant KPIs for the quality reporting

▪ ensure the availability of qualified employees for the quality function in cooperation with plant HR

 

▪ university degree, preferably in engineering, science, quality management or related discipline (depending on plant size)
▪ certified ISO/TS 16949 (or similar) auditor
▪ Six Sigma certification will be an advantage

▪ 5 or more years of professional experience in various quality management functions
▪ cross functional experience e.g. in engineering, supply chain, purchasing or CBS preferred

▪ 3 or more years in a leadership position, preferably in operational units with functional and disciplinary responsibility for other individuals

▪ experience in working with international teams on quality topics and understanding of foreign cultures

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Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated preliminary sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.

Since starting its business in China in 1994, Continental serves all major OEMs across all vehicle segments. We also develop and produce materials, functional parts, components, and systems for railway, machinery, mining and other important industries. So far, Continental has expanded its presence in 23 production locations and 28 R&D centers, representing a workforce of around 17,600 in the country. Continental offers market specific solutions to the Chinese market.