Manufacturing Quality Lead – Aerospace (Birmingham)

About the role

Our client, a market‑leading manufacturer of low‑volume, high‑precision aerospace and automotive components, is seeking a Manufacturing Quality Lead for their Birmingham site. Reporting to the Operations Director, you will ensure aerospace products meet customer, regulatory and internal quality standards while driving a right‑first‑time culture.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of Quality Inspectors and Technicians, fostering a proactive quality culture.
• Ensure products are manufactured to engineering drawings, specifications and AS9100/AS9102 requirements, approving documentation and inspection records.
• Manage non‑conformances, conduct investigations using 8D, 5‑Why and Fishbone analysis, and oversee CAPA and MRB activities.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain and customers to resolve quality issues and reduce defects.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality, process capability and operational efficiency.

Required profile

• Proven experience in a manufacturing quality leadership role within aerospace or a similarly regulated industry.
• Strong knowledge of aerospace quality standards (AS9100, AS9102) and regulatory compliance.
• Demonstrated ability to lead investigations, root‑cause analysis and corrective‑preventive actions.
• Excellent communication and coaching skills to support cross‑functional teams.

Required skills

• AS9100 quality management system
• AS9102 First Article Inspection (FAI)
• 8D problem‑solving methodology
• 5‑Why and Fishbone (Ishikawa) analysis
• CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Action) processes
• Material Review Board (MRB) procedures
• Quality inspection techniques and documentation review

What we offer

• Competitive salary up to £47,000 per year
• Opportunity to lead quality initiatives in a high‑tech aerospace environment
• Professional development and training support