Quality Assurance Manager

Quality Assurance Manager page is loaded## Quality Assurance Manager locations:
Kenilworth - Cape Towntime type:
Full time posted on:
Posted Todaytime left to apply:
End Date:
March 3, 2026 (7 days left to apply) job requisition :
JR104971

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!9 Months Fixed Term Contract     The Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for leading and driving a commercially aligned quality assurance strategy across Babywear, Boyswear, and Children’s Footwear categories. The role ensures products meet defined quality, safety, fit, durability, and compliance standards from development through to store performance.

This position safeguards brand reputation, customer safety, and margin through proactive risk management and supplier capability uplift.##
** Minimum Requirements
** Diploma or Degree in Garment Technology, Footwear Technology, Clothing Production, Quality Management or related field5–8+ years’ experience in apparel and/or footwear quality management

Demonstrated experience in children’s product safety compliance

Strong understanding of footwear construction and bonding processes

Proven track record of reducing defects and improving supplier performance

Experience working with local and international suppliers

Proficiency in MS Office and quality reporting systems

Willingness to travel to suppliers and retail stores as required

Reliable own transport and smartphone##
** Competencies
* * Strong leadership and stakeholder management capability

High technical credibility across apparel and footwear

Commercial acumen and risk awareness

Analytical and root cause problem-solving mindset

Strategic thinking with continuous improvement focus

Resilience and sound decision-making under pressure

Credibility, integrity, and accountability
** Quality Management & Category Ownership
** Own end-to-end quality performance across Babywear, Boyswear, and Children’s Footwear.

Implement and maintain robust QA and QC systems across development and production.

Establish and enforce category-specific technical standards and construction guidelines.

Drive reduction in defects, returns, and customer complaints.

Maintain category risk registers and mitigation plans.
** Children’s Product Safety & Compliance
** Ensure compliance with local and international children’s product safety regulations.

Oversee flammability, chemical compliance, small parts testing, drawcord safety, and labelling standards.

Manage laboratory testing protocols and approvals.

Maintain a zero-tolerance approach to unsafe product.
** Testing, Standards & Technical Governance
** Define and monitor AQL standards across all categories.

Oversee garment and footwear testing including shrinkage, colour fastness, seam strength, sole bond strength, flex testing, abrasion, hydrolysis risk, and slip resistance.

Review lab reports and conduct root cause analysis.

Drive corrective and preventative action plans.
** Footwear Technical Oversight & Industry Advancement
** Oversee last development, grading integrity, and fit consistency.

Ensure bonding process control and component durability standards.

Evaluate outsole compounds and long-term material performance.

Monitor and evaluate emerging footwear machinery, automation, and sustainable manufacturing technologies.

Advise on adoption of new technologies that enhance quality and consistency.
** Fit Strategy & Competitive Benchmarking
** Lead structured fit sessions and wear trials.

Monitor evolving anatomical and fit trends in children’s apparel and footwear.

Conduct regular competitor benchmarking on quality, fit, construction, and durability.

Present benchmarking insights and improvement actions to Buying and Sourcing.
** Supplier & Production Collaboration
** Act as key liaison between Design, Buying, Sourcing, and Manufacturing.

Conduct technical factory audits and capability assessments.

Develop and deliver supplier training aligned to company expectations in quality, sustainability, and compliance.

Drive continuous improvement and supplier performance management.
** Store-Level Quality Integration
** Conduct store visits to assess real-life product performance.

Analyse returns data and…