Quality Manager

Job Description:

Are you ready to deliver and lead a world class quality function?

We are looking for an experienced Quality Manager to provide leadership across our manufacturing operations at Leonardo in Luton. This role is accountable for quality performance, people capability and process assurance, enabling the delivery of high-quality, safety‑critical products in line with business, customer and regulatory requirements.

As Quality Manager you will be supporting the Head of Quality and the VP of Operations to deliver Quality aspects of Manufacturing Operations through:

• Leadership, working closely between the Quality and Operations teams
• Identifying risks, threats and opportunities throughout the manufacturing process, working with the teams to find solutions and their implementation
• Using a data-based approach to identify trends, and opportunities for improvement.
• Developing a culture for continuous improvement, and best practice
• Continuing process standardisation across all manufacturing areas
• Release of product

You will also be responsible for:

• Defect management including management plan for the continued reduction in the total cost of non-quality (TQNQ) Utilising effective tools, techniques and reporting inc. a robust RCCA culture
• Working in conjunction with the Supplier Quality function to create specific supplier management plans to ensure:
• Identification of key supplier risks in terms of supplier selection and ongoing contract execution
• Understanding of supplier performance impact on manufacturing processes, including FAI
• Timely follow-up on RTV and resolution of SCARs
• Creating, agreeing and delivering KPIs and maintaining the defined operations KPIs to be used to review and inform decision making
• Ensuring the provision of quality expertise and capability to the manufacturing and support teams in business operations
• Ensure effective forward load management in liaison with sector project quality management

• Expertise in quality, operations, operations framework, manufacturing, leadership principles
• People management & leadership skills; including effective performance and change management skills
• Expert in influencing and negotiating with others using facts, proposals, data and analysis to support line of reasoning
• Ability to partner effectively with operations, project teams, customers and suppliers
• Success in mentoring and coaching in order to grow Quality excellence within the business
• Experienced in reducing TQNQ and implementation of a root cause and corrective action culture positively effecting business
• Registration with Chartered Quality Institute or another relevant Professional Body desirable

This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.

This role will require National Security Vetting to SC level. It is a requirement that the successful applicant will undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance. A range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) will apply, this will include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). For more information and guidance please visit

At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.

• Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
• Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Armed Forces, Carers, Wellbeing and Ethnicity).
• Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus…