Head of Quality - German speaker / Automotive / People Management

Head of Quality - German speaker / Automotive / People Management

We are working with one of Germany’s top automotive sensor development groups who are looking for a Head of Quality to join their team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Quality and Environmental Management, defining and implementing strategies, systems, and processes.
• Manage all quality processes, including audits, continuous improvement projects, and compliance tracking.
• Oversee product returns within quality standards and customer agreements.
• Build, coach, and develop a global Quality team, ensuring succession planning.
• Act as the primary Quality representative for internal and external stakeholders, including customers and suppliers.
• Authority to halt production if needed to address quality issues; oversee product recalls.
• Maintain certifications (ISO 9001/IATF, ISO 14001, TISAX) and manage certification-related activities.
• Serve as Information Security Manager (ISMS) per TISAX standards.
• Define and uphold quality and environmental standards across suppliers and external partners.
• Lead environmental and ESG initiatives, ensuring adherence to goals and regular reporting.

Key Qualifications:

• Extensive experience in automotive/non-automotive electronics, sensor industries, or Quality Management, ideally in leadership at Tier 1 suppliers or OEMs.
• Technical degree (e.g., Material Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, Electronics); CMOS and sensor knowledge preferred.
• Strong knowledge of quality systems (ISO 9001/IATF, ISO 14001), tools (FMEA, PPAP, APQP, 8D), and audit experience.
• Leadership, communication, and analytical problem-solving skills; proactive and self-driven.
• Fluent in English and German; willingness to travel and work internationally.

Core Competencies:

• Leadership: Ability to lead cross-functional teams, foster continuous improvement, and align quality initiatives with business goals.
• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of ISO standards, compliance, and regulatory requirements.
• Quality Management: Proficient in tools and processes, including issue resolution and supplier quality assurance.
• Problem-Solving: Analytical and pragmatic approach to managing claims, deviations, and audits.
• Communication: Strong interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement, training, and certification liaison.

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Quality Assurance, Engineering, and Other

Industries

Semiconductor Manufacturing and Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing