Manager, Supplier Quality

SUMMARY: The Manager, Supplier Quality, is a strategic and results-driven leader responsible for overseeing supplier performance and ensuring the highest standards of quality across VSE Aviation’s supply chain. This role plays a vital part in maintaining compliance with the Quality Management System (QMS), driving continuous improvement, and championing the voice of the customer throughout the organization. Key responsibilities include leading supplier oversight initiatives, managing work transfers, and directing Material Review Board (MRB) activities. The role ensures that all supplier-provided products and services consistently meet or exceed VSE Aviation’s quality standards, customer expectations, and regulatory requirements. The Manager also leads efforts to evaluate supplier capabilities, implement corrective actions, and build long-term partnerships that support operational excellence and compliance.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support supplier performance evaluations, contributing to vendor approval, selection, and strategic sourcing decisions.
• Participate in Material Review Board (MRB) activities, ensuring necessary product verification steps are followed
• Oversee supplier corrective actions to ensure quality and compliance, and zero defects.
• Provide oversight and guidance to Field Quality Engineers, particularly for suppliers requiring quality clinics or enhanced support to support VSE Supply Chain.
• Lead and manage internal and third-party audits, ensuring full compliance with regulatory standards and customer requirements.
• Participate and provide guidance in work transfers and necessary special processes for unique products in the VSE supply chain.
• Oversee the establishment, implementation, and maintenance of Quality Management System (QMS) processes, including control of documents and data.
• Ensure effective process interaction and optimization, collaborating with process owners and conducting in-person reviews to drive efficiency.
• Monitor and analyze quality metrics and performance trends to identify opportunities for improvement in cost, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Develop and execute comprehensive quality plans through risk assessments, identification of critical control points, and implementation of preventive and verification measures.
• Conduct VSE supplier surveys, manage customer complaints and product returns, and ensure timely and effective resolution.
• Serve as the Voice of the Customer, promoting awareness of customer expectations across all departments and ensuring alignment with quality objectives.
• Champion a culture of root cause analysis and corrective action, driving continuous improvement and preventing the recurrence of quality issues.
• Report on QMS performance to senior leadership, highlighting areas for improvement and aligning quality initiatives with organizational goals.
• Reports on Supplier performance to top management identifying any needs for improvement.
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, quality, or related field
  • OR an additional 3 years of specific work experience in lieu of degree.
• 7 years of relevant/technical work experience
  • with at least 4 years of leadership experience
• Audit experience/certification, particularly with ISO 9001 and/or AS9100/AS13100 Quality/ Quality Management
• Experience with Root Cause Analysis, Risk Management, and Supplier Performance Management
• Ability to self-manage, set priorities, and demonstrate follow-through.
• Ability to travel to VSE facilities, suppliers, and customer sites.
• Proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Teams, etc.)
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

• Master’s degree in relevant field

• 10+ years of experience in Engineering, Quality and Compliance

• 8+ years of aviation experience

• 8+ years of leadership experience

• Knowledge of Quantum Control Software

OTHER:

• The selected applicant will be subject to a background check and drug testing.