Plant Quality Manager

Finning (UK) Ltd; Kidderminster; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive manufacturer in the UK is seeking a Plant Quality Manager to oversee quality performance in production. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in quality leadership within the automotive industry. Responsibilities include managing supplier quality, ensuring effective quality processes, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The role offers a competitive salary and the chance to influence the future of British automotive engineering.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Growth potential

Inclusive work environment

Qualifications

• Previous quality leadership experience in automotive or complex manufacturing.
• Strong presence on the shop floor, ability to lead by example.
• Deep understanding of vehicle mechanical and electrical systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day quality performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Manage supplier audits and quality control processes.
• Ensure compliance with internal safety and performance standards.

Skills

Quality leadership

Supplier quality experience

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Job description

As Plant Quality Manager, you will lead the day‑to‑day quality performance of the MOKE factory, driving Right‑First‑Time, reducing rework, improving supplier quality, and embedding world‑class manufacturing behaviours into production.

You will be a visible leader on the shop floor, supporting Production, Engineering, Procurement, and Aftersales to deliver stable, repeatable, and high‑quality vehicles every day.

Manufacturing Quality Leadership

• Lead all plant quality activities including start‑of‑shift reviews, quality stand‑ups, and visual management routines
• Drive containment, root‑cause analysis, and corrective actions using practical problem‑solving tools (5 Why, Ishikawa, PDCA)
• Own EOL and final quality sign‑off — ensuring every MOKE meets internal safety, performance, and cosmetic standards
• Lead rectification control, ensuring paint and assembly rework is minimised and completed to standard
• Support operators and technicians with real‑time issue resolution and coaching

Supplier Quality

• Build and manage a robust supplier quality management system
• Conduct supplier audits, manage NCRs, and drive durable corrective actions
• Collaborate with Procurement and Engineering to prevent issues before they reach the line
• Improve incoming quality through structured supplier engagement and development

Quality Systems & WCM

• Develop and implement simple, effective quality standards, control plans, and inspection routines
• Implement goods‑in inspection processes and risk‑based verification
• Support the MOKE WCM roadmap and introduce lean quality methodologies
• Maintain accurate documentation, defect tracking, and KPI reporting

Continuous Improvement

• Analyse defect trends and lead structured improvement activities
• Feed lessons learned back into engineering design, supplier development, and production processes

MOKE is on a mission to manufacture iconic, sustainable, and beautifully British made vehicles that inspire joy, adventure, and connection to the environment, blending timeless beachside charm with modern innovation, redefining the electric driving experience. Designed in the early 1960s by Sir Alec Issigonis, the father of the Austin Mini, the Mini MOKE quickly gained cult status in the French Riviera, Australia, and the Caribbean. James Bond and Brigitte Bardot were both early converts. Having acquired the original "MOKE" trademark and over 100 other related marks globally, in 2021 MOKE recommenced production in the UK. Over 500 new generation MOKEs have been built to date. In 2022 we were the first heritage automotive brand to go 100% Electric. In 2023, we were the first EV with no roof and no doors to achieve homologation in both Europe and America, with street legal MOKEs now being sold across the Caribbean, Europe, the USA and beyond. Our vision is to be the world's most adored and adventurous premium open‑air motoring brand.

Essential

• Previous quality leadership experience in automotive, Tier 1, or complex manufacturing
• Strong, hands‑on presence on the shop floor with ability to lead by example
• Deep understanding of vehicle mechanical, electrical, and EV/HV systems
• Experienced with factory inspection routines, EOL processes, and rectification
• Strong supplier quality experience (audits, APQP, PPAP, corrective actions)
• Confident with tools, torque procedures, NCR management, and safety‑critical inspections
• Excellent understanding of practical quality tools (5 Why, 8D, control plans, SPC)
• Proven ability to work in a fast‑paced, dynamic manufacturing environment
• Strong communication, problem‑solving, and leadership skills
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable

• Experience with low‑volume or niche vehicle manufacturing
• Understanding of ISO/IATF quality standards
• Experience with FactoryMaster or other MRP/ERP systems
• Demonstrated success in WCM, Lean, TPS, or Six Sigma environments

Competitive salary and benefits

• Work on an iconic British battery‑powered vehicle
• Modern, inclusive work environment with real growth potential
• Be part of a team shaping the future of British automotive engineering