Director of Quality (San Diego)

Director of Quality

Location: San Diego, CA (Hybrid)

A leading manufacturer in North America is looking for a visionary leader to spearhead its quality efforts globally, overseeing initiatives that span various locations both at home and abroad. The right candidate will be a collaborative, experienced leader with a strong background in manufacturing quality and a passion for continuous improvement and cross-functional excellence.

This position will oversee quality excellence across two key production territories, collaborating with senior management and site-based teams to drive world-class product integrity and regulatory adherence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Direct quality operations for multiple production sites, providing strategic oversight and day-to-day leadership across quality engineering, compliance, audits, and continuous improvement.
• Champion a customer-first, quality-centric culture across all departments and regions.
• Partner with cross-functional leaders in supply chain, engineering, customer service, and sales to align quality goals with business performance metrics.
• Develop and implement scalable quality systems and procedures to meet evolving customer and regulatory demands (ISO9001, AS9100, IATF 16949).
• Lead internal and external audit preparation, response, and resolution activities to ensure organizational readiness and compliance.
• Analyze quality performance data, define KPIs, and drive results through metrics-based accountability.
• Oversee root cause investigations and corrective/preventive actions, ensuring sustainable problem-solving practices.
• Guide, grow, and supervise a diverse group of over 10 quality experts spanning various sites, helping them reach their full potential.
• Visit supplier and customer sites as needed to strengthen relationships, troubleshoot issues, and promote continuous quality improvements.
• Stay current with regulatory trends and industry best practices to proactively adapt quality systems and processes.

Required Background:

• Bachelors degree in engineering, quality management, or related technical field.
• A decade or more of experience in quality manufacturing, including a minimum of 5 years leading and directing quality teams or initiatives.
• Track record of successfully deploying and growing quality programs globally or across multiple sites.
• Familiarity with heavily regulated manufacturing environments, such as those producing medical devices, automotive parts, aerospace components, or military equipment.
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (SAP preferred) and quality methodologies such as 8D, Fishbone, or similar tools.
• Quality certifications such as Lean Six Sigma, CQE, or CMQ/OE are a strong plus.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with a track record of team development and cross-functional partnership.
• Occasional travel required, up to 10% of time, to various sites worldwide.

Whats In It for You:

• Highly competitive base salary with bonus potential.
• Hybrid work flexibility based in the San Diego metro area.
• Relocation assistance available for the right candidate.
• Executive-level visibility with the chance to shape long-term quality strategy.

About Blue Signal:

Blue Signal is an award-winning, executive search firm specializing in various specialties. Our recruiters have a proven track record of placing top-tier talent across industry verticals, with deep expertise in numerous professional services. Learn more at bit.ly/46Gs4yS