Job Title: Senior Quality Manager Location: Kortrijk, Belgium Department: Quality Assurance & Control Type: Full-time / Permanent Experience Level: Senior / 8+ years in Quality or ManufacturingAbout the CompanyWe are a leading manufacturer and solutions provider in the gate and fence hardware industry by developing and manufacturing a wide range of products for access control and security for gates and fences, my clients have a strong commitment to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement. Our facility near Kortrijk serves as a strategic hub for quality-driven production and innovation.Role SummaryWe are seeking a Senior Quality Manager who combines strategic leadership with a hands-on mindset. You will be responsible for managing all quality assurance and quality control activities, ensuring compliance with international standards, and driving a strong quality culture on the shop floor. This is a visible leadership role requiring regular interaction with production, suppliers, customers, and senior leadership.Key ResponsibilitiesLead, coach, and develop the Quality Team (including QA/QC Engineers, Inspectors, and Auditors)Take ownership of the company’s Quality Management System (QMS) – ISO 9001 and/or other relevant standards (e.g., IATF 16949, ISO 13485)Drive root cause analysis, CAPA, and non-conformance investigationsImplement lean quality tools such as 8D, FMEA, SPC, PPAP, and Control PlansServe as the main point of contact for external audits, customer complaints, and regulatory inspectionsMonitor and analyze quality KPIs; lead quality review meetings with cross-functional teamsWork closely with the production and engineering teams to improve process control and reduce wasteSupport supplier quality development and auditsPromote a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement at all levelsRequired QualificationsBachelor's or Master’s degree in Engineering, Quality Management, Industrial Sciences, or related field8+ years of experience in Quality Assurance/Control, preferably in a manufacturing environmentProven leadership experience in managing teams (minimum 3–5 direct reports)Solid knowledge of ISO 9001, and familiarity with IATF 16949 or ISO 13485 is a plusStrong problem-solving skills using 8D, DMAIC, or equivalent methodologiesExperience in dealing with customers, audits, and certificationsFluent in Dutch and English (French is a plus)Key AttributesHands-on leadership style: Visible on the shop floor, not just in the officeStrong communicator and coach; able to challenge and support teams simultaneouslyAnalytical mindset with a practical, no-nonsense approachResults-driven and able to operate under pressure in a dynamic environmentExcellent stakeholder management skills (internal and external)What We OfferCompetitive salary with company car and bonus schemeGroup insurance and hospitalization coverageMeal vouchers, eco-cheques, and flexible working optionsOpportunity to make a tangible impact in a medium-sized, fast-growing companyCollaborative and supportive work environmentTraining and development opportunities tailored to your ambitions