Did you know KONE moves two billion people every day? As a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, we employ over 60,000 driven professionals in close to 70 countries worldwide joined together by a shared purpose, to shape the future of cities. In 2024, we had annual net sales of EUR 11.1 billion.
Why this role?
As Head of SQE (Safety, Quality, and Environment), you’ll lead and support SQE activities across the country. You’ll work closely with leadership to improve safety, quality, and environmental performance, ensuring compliance with KONE standards and driving continuous improvement.
Being part of a global organization that actively supports your career and internal promotions, means that for the right person, this critical role could be the next step in a fantastic career at KONE.
What will you be doing?
Responsibilities
- SQE Leadership & Strategy
- Act as the representative for ISO standards (ISO9001, ISO45001, ISO14001).
- Guide the implementation of KONE’s Integrated Management System.
- Represent the country in safety matters externally.
- Culture & Engagement
- Promote a strong safety and quality culture across all levels.
- Lead safety programmes for elevator and escalator users.
- Targets & Programmes
- Set local SQE goals aligned with regional objectives.
- Develop crisis communication and emergency response plans.
- Lead SQE initiatives and activities
- Review and manage safety, quality, and environmental risks.
- Lead or support change management projects.
- Report incidents and ensure compliance with crisis procedures.
- Conduct regular assessments to reduce non‑compliance.
- Audits & Compliance
- Oversee audits and follow‑ups to ensure process compliance.
- Continuous Improvement
- Use customer and field feedback to improve SQE processes.
- Track and evaluate improvement projects and corrective actions.
- Drive Lean Six Sigma (LSS) initiatives and Kaizen events.
- Collaborate with regional teams to share best practices.
- Incident Management
- Reduce non‑conformances and improve incoming quality.
- Lead root cause analysis and validate corrective actions.
- Training & Development
- Enhance SQE and LSS skills through training.
- Foster a strong safety and quality mindset across the organization.
Requirements
- Minimum 10 years of experience in SQE with a strong focus on Quality, including at least 3 years in leadership and stakeholder management roles.
- Experience working in a matrix organization, with the ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders to drive the right decisions on Safety, Quality and Environment.
- Proficient in ISO standards and certifications, with specific expertise in ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety), ISO 9001 (Quality Management), and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management).
- Lean Six Sigma certification (Black Belt preferred, but not essential).
- Strong business acumen and people development capabilities.
What do we offer?
- Career progression in opportunities within a global organization.
- Total reward elements that engage and motivate our employees and help us make KONE a great place to work.
- Comprehensive learning and development programs covering a wide range of professional skills.
- You are surrounded by fun colleagues and a lively working environment. The best part is all leaders are great and open-minded.
If you're passionate about connecting with people and making an impact in the elevator and escalator industry, click ‘Apply’ to start your journey with KONE. In the meantime, feel free to browse our website for additional information on our company, brands and culture – KONE Corporation.