Head of Quality Assurance

Job Title: Head – QualityLocation: Tapukara, Rajasthan Industry: Leading Automotive Manufacturer Eligibility: Only Japanese Nationals Can Apply Language Requirement: Native-level Japanese; English preferredAbout the RoleThe Head of Quality will lead the entire quality function for the plant, ensuring adherence to Japanese quality standards, global automotive requirements, and a zero-defect mindset. The role requires deep understanding of Japanese quality systems and strong collaboration with Japanese auditors, technical teams, and global leadership.Key ResponsibilitiesQuality Leadership & StrategyLead the end-to-end Quality function across the plant: Quality Assurance, Quality Control, Supplier Quality, Customer Quality, and Quality Systems.Develop and implement quality strategy aligned with Japanese manufacturing philosophy and global quality expectations.Build and sustain a robust quality culture focused on defect prevention, process discipline, and continuous improvement.Quality Assurance & Process ControlOversee quality throughout the production lifecycle—from incoming inspection to in-process and final inspection.Ensure strict compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and customer-specific requirements.Establish strong quality gates and reduce defects through root cause analysis and corrective actions.Customer Quality ManagementAct as the primary interface for customer quality concerns, audits, and visits.Lead structured problem-solving using 8D, PDCA, RCA, FMEA, and other Japanese quality tools.Work towards achieving zero customer complaints and high customer satisfaction.Supplier Quality ManagementLead supplier audits, approvals, and ongoing performance reviews.Drive supplier development initiatives to improve incoming quality.Coordinate with Japanese suppliers and global partners for alignment with OEM expectations.Japanese Coordination & ReportingCollaborate closely with Japanese technical teams, auditors, and management.Translate and present quality reports, issues, and improvement plans as required.Ensure alignment of Indian plant quality systems with Japanese HQ standards.Quality Systems & ComplianceOwn all quality documentation, SOP creation, and audit readiness.Lead internal audits, external certification audits, and regulatory compliance.Drive continuous improvements through Kaizen, Poka-Yoke, Standardized Work, and TPS-based quality practices.Team Leadership & Capability BuildingLead and mentor a large quality team including managers, engineers, and inspectors.Build capability in Japanese quality tools, problem-solving techniques, and process adherence.Foster a culture of accountability, discipline, and quality-first mindset.Key RequirementsEligibilityOnly Japanese Nationals Can ApplyNative-level Japanese language; English ability preferred.EducationB.Tech / B.E. in Mechanical, Automobile, Production, or related engineering field.Certifications in quality systems (Six Sigma, TPS, IATF, etc.) preferred.Experience15–22 years of automotive quality experience at an OEM or Tier-1.Must have strong exposure to Japanese quality systems, audits, and global automotive standards.Experience working internationally (India or Asia) is an added advantage.Skills & CompetenciesDeep understanding of TPS, Kaizen, Poka-Yoke, Quality Circles, and Japanese problem-solving methods.Strong leadership, communication, and cross-cultural management skills.Ability to work in a demanding environment while driving system-level improvements.Expertise in 8D, FMEA, RCA, APQP, PPAP, and other automotive quality tools.