Quality Manager

Apollo Tyres Ltd is an international tyre manufacturer and the leading tyre brand in India. The company has multiple manufacturing units in India and a unit each in The Netherlands and Hungary. The company markets its products under its two global brands – Apollo and Vredestein, and its products are available in over 100 countries through a vast network of branded, exclusive and multi-product outlets.

Job Title: Quality Manager (R&D)

Location: Enschede

Reports to (Position): Senior Manager - Quality Global R&D

Department/Function: Quality Assurance

Purpose of the Job: We are looking for a Quality Manager to join our R&D Center in Enschede. In this pivotal role, you will lead all quality-related initiatives within the R&D organization, driving continuous improvement and ensuring compliance with global standards.

You will be responsible for implementing and enhancing the Apollo Total Quality Management (ATQM) program and promoting the use of APSA tools across R&D Europe. Through data-driven performance monitoring, structured problem-solving, and capability development, you will help foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and innovation in all aspects of our research and development activities.

Major Responsibilities:

1. Quality & Document Management Systems

2. Lead the implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the Apollo Global R&D Quality Management System (ATQM) in alignment with IATF 16949, ISO 17025, and VDA standards.

3. Define and coordinate priorities for compliance, improvement, and best practices with Function Heads and First Line Managers.
   
   Manage the R&D Document Management System to ensure full traceability and standardization across teams.

4. Collaborate with R&D Europe stakeholders to ensure structured implementation and adherence to customer-specific quality requirements.

5. ATQM Coordination & Continuous Improvement

6. Act as the ATQM Coordinator for R&D Europe, ensuring the successful deployment of continuous improvement initiatives and problem-solving activities.

7. Lead and coordinate Kaizen Enhancement Projects, supporting project leaders in applying APSA methodologies and delivering results within defined timelines.
8. Serve as a Gold Trainer, building R&D capability in Quality Core Tools, Policy Deployment, and Daily Work Management (DWM).

9. Promote a culture of operational excellence and cross-functional learning.

10. Quality Management System & Governance

11. Support the Global Head of R&D Europe in establishing and maintaining effective management review processes in line with IATF 16949 and ISO 17025.

12. Collaborate with the R&D Management Team to develop, implement, and monitor robust SOPs, Work Instructions, and KPIs.
13. Partner with HR to identify technical skill gaps and define targeted training and development programs.

14. Contribute to the R&D Quality Department's budget planning, ensuring efficient use of resources to support key quality initiatives.

15. Audits & Compliance Leadership

16. Lead the Internal Audit Program for R&D Europe, ensuring comprehensive process coverage and timely completion of the annual audit plan.

17. Act as the primary contact for external audits (IATF 16949, ISO 17025, and regulatory), coordinating preparation and follow-up actions with Corporate Quality and other departments.
18. Guide teams in identifying root causes and implementing effective corrective and preventive actions using structured problem-solving methods.
19. Lead and develop a team of internal auditors (10+), maintaining audit competency and engagement through training and coaching.

Requirements:

• Master's degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related technical discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in Quality Management, preferably within automotive or manufacturing R&D environments.
• In-depth knowledge of IATF 16949, ISO 17025, and VDA 6.3 standards. Certified IATF nd/3rd party auditor is a must. Certified Six Sigma fundamentals and/or VDA 6.3 is a plus.
• Proven experience leading continuous improvement and audit programs.
• Strong communication, leadership, and change management skills.
• Fluent in English (Dutch or German is an asset)

Why join us?

• A dynamic and innovative environment
• Colleagues from all over the world
• A competitive compensation packages
• Participation in learning & development activities

We take pride in our commitment to being an equal opportunity employer, creating a workplace where diversity is celebrated, and talent thrives. It's our belief that every individual brings unique perspectives that contribute to our success. Join us and be a part of an inclusive, dynamic, and innovative environment.

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