Director Quality and Continuous Improvement

GEA Group•Hudson, NH

33d•$140,000 - $160,000•Hybrid

About The Position

GEA Group, founded in Germany in 1881, is a global leader in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more. With over 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA combines the heritage of a well-established company with the innovation of a forward-thinking industry leader. At GEA, we're not just building equipment, we're building lasting careers with an average employee tenure range from 8 + years, reflecting the strong culture, growth opportunities, and support we provide. Start strong - Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins on your first day Recharge and refresh - Enjoy 12 paid holidays, including a flexible floating holiday, and 136 hours of PTO to relax or explore Invest in your future - A 7% 401(k) employer match helps grow your retirement savings faster Keep learning - Take advantage of tuition reimbursement to further your education or skillset Live well - Our wellness incentive program rewards healthy habits Get support when you need it - Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program for personal or professional guidance Save smart - Flexible Health Savings and Spending Accounts to manage out-of-pocket expenses The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is expected to be between $140,000 - $160,000 per year + bonus. GEA Group has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States. The pay range is not guaranteed compensation or salary. The estimated range is the budgeted amount for the position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications, and other job-related reasons. You may be eligible for additional rewards, such as a discretionary bonus (based on eligibility) and/or equity awards. This position is responsible for leading and overseeing all aspects of Lean Six Sigma and the company's Quality Management System to ensure the highest standards of quality across the production process. You will partner closely with cross-functional teams-including engineering, design, procurement, service, production, and customer service-to drive improvement and sustainability initiatives that enhance product quality, increase production efficiency, and exceed internal and external customer expectations. The successful candidate will serve as a change agent who motivates others and champions a culture grounded in Lean Six Sigma and quality excellence. This role is based at our Hudson office and follows a hybrid work schedule.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Management, or a related field.
10+ years of experience in quality management, preferably in manufacturing.
Strong understanding of quality management principles, methodologies, and tools (ISO, Six Sigma, etc.).
Experience working in matrix organizations with the ability to influence and lead without direct authority.
Experience in change management and exposure to project-based business environments.
Fluent in English (verbal and written).
Strong technical expertise, project management skills, and end-to-end process knowledge.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively at all levels and with internal/external stakeholders.
Strong leadership abilities with proven experience motivating teams, driving change, and achieving measurable results.
Proficiency with quality management tools and software.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a comprehensive quality management and Lean Six Sigma (LSS) system across manufacturing-including welding, sheet metal, metal finishing, and engineering-to meet industry standards and customer requirements.
Lead, train, and support the quality team, providing guidance, feedback, and accountability to achieve high-quality results.
Define and monitor quality metrics, goals, and objectives, using data analysis to identify improvement opportunities and preventive actions; collaborate with engineering, design, and CoCs as needed.
Work with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve quality issues using root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions.
Develop and maintain quality control plans and standard operating procedures to ensure consistent quality practices across manufacturing, assembly, and installation.
Lead quality management and LSS initiatives, including customer complaint resolution, root cause analysis, and implementation of corrective actions.
Drive continuous improvement using SPC, lean principles, and Six Sigma methodologies to enhance product quality, reduce defects, and increase efficiency.
Monitor industry trends, regulations, and best practices; provide strategic recommendations to maintain compliance and competitive advantage.
Build strong relationships with stakeholders to support effective communication and collaboration on quality matters.
Represent the company in customer audits, quality certifications, and industry events to demonstrate commitment to quality excellence.
Support LPT NAM procurement with audits and assist engineering in resolving quality or performance issues.
Partner with Operational Excellence and regional Lean Managers to implement sustainable LSS concepts.
Encourage teams to challenge the status quo and identify opportunities to improve existing processes.
Promote positive engagement, motivate teams through change, and help shift traditional mindsets.
Share LSS best practices, validate cost savings (with Production Managers), and report achievements.
Collaborate with GEA's LSS organization, coordinators, and local LSS managers.
Identify LSS training needs and coordinate training across the region.
Identify potential LSS Belt candidates; train and mentor them through certification.
Evaluate progress of LSS improvement projects and provide feedback to the Head of Operational Excellence and LSS Steering Committee.
Ensure adherence to OSHA and GEA safety standards.
Implement processes to ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and GEA Group standards.
Act as a champion of GEA values, aspirations, and objectives for the business and LPT NAM division.
Perform all other duties as assigned.
Occasional travel within GEA locations to support audits, training, collaboration, and project execution.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins on your first day
Enjoy 12 paid holidays, including a flexible floating holiday, and 136 hours of PTO to relax or explore
A 7% 401(k) employer match helps grow your retirement savings faster
Take advantage of tuition reimbursement to further your education or skillset
Our wellness incentive program rewards healthy habits
Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program for personal or professional guidance
Flexible Health Savings and Spending Accounts to manage out-of-pocket expenses

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