Director of Quality

Applied Adhesives • Rockford, MI

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About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Director of Quality to establish and drive our quality management system, safety programs, and regulatory compliance across all manufacturing and distribution operations. This newly created role will be instrumental in building a world-class quality and safety culture as we continue to evolve our organizational structure. The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record in ISO quality system management, manufacturing operations, and safety program development, with the ability to lead cross-functional initiatives across multiple locations. This position will play a critical leadership role in developing and implementing comprehensive quality systems, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance frameworks that support our adhesives distribution business and hot melt packaging equipment manufacturing operations. You must live in the Rockford, MI. area to be considered for this role.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Management, Industrial Safety, or related field required.
• Minimum 7-10 years of progressive experience in quality management and safety within manufacturing operations.
• Proven experience establishing and maintaining ISO 9001 certified quality management systems.
• Proven experience in automotive PPAP process.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing cross-functional teams and driving organizational initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of OSHA regulations, workplace safety standards, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Experience developing and implementing safety programs, including job hazard assessments and emergency action plans.
• Excellent communication skills with ability to influence at all organizational levels.
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly to multiple manufacturing and distribution locations (up to 40%).
• Have strong planning and organization skills.
• Are an experienced Manufacturing leader with direct reports.
• Is a good communicator and is focused on safety, quality and delivery.
• The ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand.
• Frequently moves items weighing up to 50 lbs.
• The ability to observe details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

Nice To Haves

• Professional certifications such as CQE (Certified Quality Engineer), CQA (Certified Quality Auditor), CSP (Certified Safety Professional), or ASQ certification.
• Experience with ISO 13485 (medical devices) or other industry-specific quality standards.
• Background in adhesives, packaging equipment, or related manufacturing industries.
• Six Sigma Black Belt or Lean Manufacturing certification.
• Experience implementing quality and safety programs in multi-site manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems and quality management software.

Responsibilities

• Establish, implement, and maintain an ISO-certified quality management system across all manufacturing and distribution locations.
• Collaborate with manufacturing facilities to develop and implement receiving inspection criteria, in-process work inspection criteria, and final assembly buy-off procedures.
• Establish and manage supplier quality interactions, procedures, and vendor qualification processes.
• Lead quality audits, corrective action processes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop and implement quality metrics and KPIs to drive operational excellence.
• Design and implement a comprehensive, formal safety program for all operations.
• Conduct and oversee job hazard assessments across manufacturing and warehouse operations.
• Develop emergency action plans and ensure proper training and preparedness at all facilities.
• Lead safety training programs and promote a proactive safety culture throughout the organization.
• Investigate incidents, near-misses, and develop preventive measures.
• Oversee and manage all internal reporting to the leadership team on quality, safety, and compliance matters.
• Ensure timely and accurate external reporting to regulatory bodies including OSHA, ISO registrars, and other governing agencies.
• Maintain current knowledge of applicable regulations and ensure organizational compliance.
• Serve as primary liaison with external auditors, regulators, and certification bodies.
• Lead and develop a cross-functional team responsible for quality, safety, and regulatory functions.
• Partners with manufacturing, distribution, and PSE (Parts, Service, Equipment) teams to integrate quality and safety into daily operations.
• Travel regularly to manufacturing and distribution locations to provide hands-on support and ensure consistency across sites.
• Drive organizational change and build consensus across all levels of the organization.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits
• 401k Match
• Flexible and Team-Oriented work environment
• Generous PTO policy
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Career and talent development opportunities as well as opportunities for personal growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director