Global Quality Tools & Methods Specialist

Job Title: Global Quality Tools & Methods Specialist
Location: UK (South East, with hybrid working)
Type: Permanent
Sector: Semiconductor / High Tech Capital Equipment
Salary: c. 80,000 + package (dependent on experience)

Drive Quality 4.0 and global standards across a multibillion revenue semiconductor business.

We're partnering with a global engineering group that designs and manufactures complex semiconductor equipment. They're looking for a senior Global Quality Tools & Methods Specialist to define, deploy and continuously improve the quality methodologies, standards and digital tools used across their worldwide operations.

This is a strategic, high visibility role reporting into VP Customer Quality, with direct influence on global quality performance, product reliability and customer experience.

You'll be the global point of reference for quality tools and methods - setting the framework, driving adoption across R&D, manufacturing, supply chain and service, and leading the journey towards data driven, predictive quality.
The role is hybrid (predominantly home based with regular presence in the UK office) and will involve global collaboration and some international travel.

Strategy & Leadership

• Define and deploy the global strategy for Quality Tools & Methods aligned to business and customer goals.
• Lead cross?functional, cross region initiatives to build a proactive, prevention?focused quality culture.
• Own the roadmap for Quality 4.0 / digital quality transformation (analytics, dashboards, AI?based quality decision making).

Quality Systems, Methods & Tools

• Own and continuously improve core quality methodologies and standards (e.g. FMEA, DFMEA/PFMEA, SPC, MSA, APQP, PPAP, 8D, CAPA, DMAIC).
• Harmonise quality processes across engineering, supply chain, manufacturing and field service.
• Embed quality tools and controls into NPI and production / operations systems.
• Champion the use of advanced data analytics and automated reporting to improve transparency and decision?making.

Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

• Institutionalise lessons learned and preventive actions across programmes and sites.
• Support and lead structured problem solving, Kaizen and improvement workshops focused on yield, reliability and performance.

Stakeholder Management & Collaboration

• Partner with global stakeholders in R&D, operations, supply chain and service to ensure consistent adoption of tools and methods.
• Align quality expectations with key suppliers and major customers.
• Support internal and external audits and senior quality reviews.
• Provide direction, coaching and subject?matter leadership to local quality teams worldwide.

Education & Background

• Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Ideally a Master's and/or advanced certifications such as Six Sigma Black Belt or Lean Expert.

Experience

• Typically 10+ years' experience in quality engineering, reliability, operational excellence or similar within semiconductor equipment or complex high tech machinery.
• Proven track record implementing quality systems, tools and standards across multi?site or global operations.
• Hands?on experience with operational platforms and data/analytics tools for quality monitoring.
• Exposure to complex systems (e.g. precision mechanics, optics, mechatronics, vacuum systems) is a strong plus.

Skills & Competencies

• Expert knowledge of quality tools: FMEA, DFMEA/PFMEA, SPC, DOE, MSA, DFSS, APQP, 8D, DMAIC.
• Strong data?driven mindset - comfortable with tools such as Minitab, JMP, Python, Power BI or similar.
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills; able to influence senior stakeholders and coach global teams.
• Confident operating in a global matrix environment with cultural and time?zone complexity.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001:2015 and modern quality management systems.

• Impact: Direct influence on quality strategy, methods and performance across a multi?billion revenue business.
• Scope: Truly global remit across multiple sites, regions and functions.
• Innovation: Drive the transition towards digital, data driven quality in a high tech, fast growing sector.
• Balance: Hybrid working, with a culture that genuinely supports work/life balance.

To explore this opportunity in confidence, please apply with your CV or contact me directly for a discreet conversation.