Sr. Quality Director, Robotics & Automation
About The Position
This position is part of Novanta’s Robotics & Automation group and is one of the company’s core capability pillars. This group focuses on delivering ultra‑precise, high‑reliability motion, sensing, and robotic end‑of‑arm technologies designed for mission‑critical applications across advanced manufacturing, surgical robotics, logistics automation, and emerging humanoid systems. The Senior Director, Quality will lead the global quality organization across several manufacturing sites, providing strategic leadership and oversight of key initiatives. This role is pivotal in driving high quality standards, operational excellence, and a culture of continuous improvement. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader who thrives in complex, multi-site environments and is passionate about developing high-performing teams and fostering a culture of quality excellence. The Senior Director will ensure product quality for the Robotics and Automation business and will report directly to the VP of Operations.
Requirements
- University degree in a relevant field; advanced/graduate degree preferred.
- 15+ years of progressive experience in Quality Management, with specific emphasis on the manufacturing industry.
- Demonstrated success in developing and implementing quality assurance programs and driving operational efficiency.
- Proven ability to lead and motivate large, cross-functional, global teams
- Strong business acumen, strategic thinking, and ability to synthesize data into actionable insights.
- Excellent communication and leadership skills with a track record of building inclusive, high-performing teams.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in regulated industries (e.g., medical device, aerospace).
- Familiarity with global operations and multi-site quality management.
- Data-driven decision-making mindset and comfort with analytics tools.
Responsibilities
- Oversee strategic quality initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and operational excellence across multiple sites.
- Drive a culture of quality excellence through training, communication, and engagement across the organization.
- Lead, mentor, and develop global, cross-functional teams, fostering a high-performing learning culture.
- Coordinate ISO 9001/14001, ISO 45001 and 13485 audits and maintain certifications for all relevant sites.
- Coordinate the resolution of customer complaints and drive improvements in response time for Return Material Authorizations (RMAs).
- Develop and implement best-in-class quality assurance methodologies, tools, policies, and procedures to optimize processes and improve operational efficiency.
- Provide quality support for new product introductions by leading planning, validation, and supplier qualifications to ensure successful product launches.
- Oversee compliance with international and regional regulations, including product safety and quality standards. Maintain and improve compliance programs and ensure audit readiness.
- Set clear expectations, manage performance, and ensure team engagement and retention.
- Drive innovation and resolve highly complex business problems using advanced critical thinking and strategic agility.
Benefits
- full range of medical, financial, and other benefits to make your quality of life better
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
