Quality Manager

The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) is seeking a Quality Manager to join our dynamic team in Luton. In this crucial role, you will ensure top-tier quality standards throughout the design and development stages of our ground-breaking projects. The salary range for this role is £62,000 to £75,000 per year. You'll work collaboratively with UK partners, including MBDA, Rolls Royce, and BAE Systems, as well as internationally with domain partners in Japan and Italy. Your expertise in Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and quality assurance will be vital in guiding and overseeing quality processes, driving excellence, and challenging the status quo to achieve unmatched results. How you will do it:

• Be at the forefront of quality assurance during early-stage Life Cycle Management (LCM) gates, ensuring every deliverable meets the quality standards before moving forward.
• Lead the deployment of APQP processes across the design and development stages of the GCAP.
• Work collaboratively with UK partners (MBDA, Rolls Royce, and BAE Systems) to integrate and harmonize innovative quality processes.
• Engage with international partners in Japan and Italy to ensure cohesive quality management practices and share pioneering best practices.
• Facilitate regular meetings and workshops with partners to discuss quality challenges, progress, and improvements.
• Provide expert guidance and oversight on quality assurance activities during the design and development phases.
• Conduct regular quality audits to identify areas for improvement and ensure conformance to quality standards.
• Monitor and report on key quality metrics, providing insights and recommendations for continuous innovation.
• Implement best practices and innovative solutions to elevate quality performance across the program.
• Mentor and coach junior quality specialists to build a robust and capable quality management team.
• Stay updated on the latest quality management trends and technologies, integrating relevant advancements into the GCAP.
This role offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of aerospace and defence innovation, working with leading organizations around the globe. If you are passionate about quality, driven by excellence, and ready to challenge the norm, we encourage you to apply and become a part of our ground-breaking journey.


• A degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field. Advanced certifications in quality management (e.g., Six Sigma, CQI) are highly desirable.
• Demonstrated success in a senior quality role within the aerospace or defence industry, with a strong foundation in APQP.
• Mastery of quality assurance methodologies and best practices, particularly in design and development stages.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and external partners, both domestically and internationally.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, capable of articulating complex quality issues to stakeholders at all levels.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a proactive approach to tackling quality challenges.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally to engage with partners and stakeholders., You must be eligible for full security clearance. For more information and guidance please visit : https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels
  
  Leonardo is a global high-tech company and one of the key players in Aerospace, Defence and Security. Headquartered in Italy, Leonardo has over 45,000 employees, of which 7,000 are based in the UK.
At Leonardo UK, we believe that a diverse and inclusive work environment unlocks our people's full potential and drives innovation and creativity. We work hard to offer a welcoming, accessible and inclusive place to work for all of our people, creating a culture where everyone can thrive, feel safe and have a sense of belonging and connection. This is a great opportunity to bring your talents and form an integral part of Leonardo's future. We can help you develop your skills and offer great opportunities to develop and grow, so why not join us.

With a company funded benefits package, a commitment to learning and development, and a flexible approach to working hours focused on the needs of both our employees and customers, a career with Leonardo has never offered as many opportunities or been more accessible to as many people.
• Pension: Award winning pension scheme (up to 10% employer contribution)
• Holidays: 25 days plus bank holidays, option to buy/sell leave and to accrue up to 12 additional flexi leave days per year
• Flexible Working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us
• Wellbeing: Employee Assistance Programme, access to Mental Health support, Financial wellbeing support, network groups (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Reservists, Carers)
• Lifestyle: Discounted Gym membership, Cycle to work scheme
• Company funded flexible benefits: Access to private healthcare, dental schemes, Workplace ISA, Go Green Car Scheme, technology and lifestyle options (£500 annual allowance)
• Training: Free access to more than 4000 online courses via Coursera
• Referral Incentive: You can earn a reward for successfully referring a friend or family member
• Bonus: Scheme in place for all employees at management level and below