Director of Quality - Columbus, IN

NTN DRIVESHAFT, INC.

Job Title: Director of Quality

Report To: Vice President of Quality and Engineering

JOB DESCRIPTION:

NTN Driveshaft, Inc. (NDI) is seeking a highly skilled Quality Leader to be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the company's quality assurance and quality control programs to ensure compliance with industry standards, customer requirements, and regulatory mandates. This role will drive continuous improvement initiatives, manage supplier quality performance, and lead cross-functional teams to enhance product reliability and manufacturing processes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and oversee the company's quality management system (QMS) in compliance with IATF 16949 and other applicable standards.
• Lead and mentor the quality assurance and quality control teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and supply chain teams to ensure product quality and reliability from design to delivery.
• Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions for quality issues using Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and other methodologies.
• Establish and monitor key quality performance metrics (KPIs) and drive improvements based on data analysis.
• Manage customer audits, internal audits, and third-party inspections, ensuring compliance with regulatory and customer requirements.
• Develop supplier quality management programs, conduct supplier audits, and drive quality improvements across the supply chain.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives such as Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), and Statistical Process Control (SPC).
• Act as the main point of contact for customer quality concerns, ensuring timely resolution and communication.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes that impact product quality.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND ABILITIES:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in quality management within the automotive industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of IATF 16949 and other relevant quality standards.
• Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (Black Belt preferred), APQP, PPAP, and FMEA.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with expertise in statistical analysis and process optimization.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Experience in working with OEM and Tier 1 suppliers.
• Proficiency in quality-related software and tools such as SPC software and ERP systems.