Supplier Quality Manager

Supplier Quality Manager | Newport, Wales | up to £60,000 | Permanent

The Opportunity

An exciting opportunity for a hands-on and proactive Supplier Quality Manager to lead a transformation in supplier quality operations for a major UK rail manufacturing programme. You’ll take ownership of a pivotal function, driving improvements in inspection, documentation, and tooling compliance while leading a team of five quality technicians. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, high-impact environment and is ready to make a tangible difference.

Responsibilities:

• Lead, motivate, and structure a team of 5 shop-floor quality technicians
  • Implement and oversee First Article Inspections (FAIs) and tailored inspection/test plans
  • Authorise or withhold product release based on quality compliance
  • Stop manufacturing activities if safety or quality standards are compromised
  • Resolve supplier non-conformances and monitor modifications
  • Conduct internal and supplier audits
  • Maintain digital documentation and ensure ISO 9001 compliance
  • Collaborate with European HQ to meet tight project deadlines
  • Define and implement calibration plans for inspection and testing equipment
  • Lead root cause analysis and drive continuous improvement initiatives

The Candidate:

The ideal Supplier Quality Manager will be a strong leader with a background in quality management within rail, automotive, or similar sectors. You’ll bring:
• BEng or Level 6 NQF/QCF qualification
• ISO 9001 knowledge and advanced computer literacy (Office, ERP, Catia)
• Strong drawing interpretation (2D/3D, EN/BS standards)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Valid UK driving licence and flexibility to travel
• Experience with NDT and measuring systems (preferred)
• Spanish language skills (preferred)
• A proactive, adaptable mindset with a focus on continuous improvement

Location:

Newport, Wales with some UK-wide travel and occasional visits to European HQ (Spain).

Salary:

Up to £60,000

About Ford & Stanley Group

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group are in the business of people and performance. Our mission is to create one million better workdays through facilitating great recruitment, leadership and occupational mental fitness. We support our clients in their most challenging business areas – recruiting, developing and retaining the best talent from shop floor to boardroom.

1. Ford & Stanley TalentWise – Blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary
2. Ford & Stanley Recruitment – White collar recruitment across all functions, with specialist verticals in Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics
3. Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Executive Search & Interim Solutions across the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe
4. Ford & Stanley Genius Performance – Coaching, training and performance acceleration

Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer committed to equal opportunities for all. We treat everyone equally regardless of sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, race, nationality, religion or belief, or political beliefs.

Apply for the Supplier Quality Manager role today!