Quality Manager at British American Tobacco (BAT)

The Quality Manager is a senior leadership role in the manufacturing department responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the company's Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure all products meet the highest standards of safety, legality, and quality. This role provides strategic direction for the quality function, ensures compliance with all relevant regulatory bodies, drives a culture of continuous improvement throughout the manufacturing process. The Quality manager is the ultimate decision maker on product release and the primary contact for key customers on all quality-related matters. This role is primarily based at the manufacturing facility and requires time in the office and the production floor.

Your key responsibilities will include:

Operational, Leadership, Continuous Improvement and System management

• Develop and execute the company's quality strategy in alignment with overall business objectives.
• Design, implement, and maintain a robust Quality Management System (QMS) compliant with global standards.
• Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the quality department to track performance and drive improvements.
• Prepare and manage the departmental budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively.
• Manage all aspects of operational quality control, including raw material inspection, in-process checks, and final product release protocols.
• Lead the investigation of any significant quality deviations, non-conformances, or incidents, implementing effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
• Manage the product recall/withdrawal procedure to ensure it can be executed swiftly and effectively if required.
• Utilize data analysis, root cause analysis, and other quality tools to identify trends and opportunities for improvement in products and processes.
• Lead cross-functional teams to implement continuous improvement projects aimed at reducing waste, improving efficiency, and enhancing product quality.
• Lead the implementation of integrated quality management system across Kenya operations.
• Lead New Product introductions/launches, material trials), Protocol/Trial Runs, MQSs
• Quality pillar lead in the factory and participates in the Regional /Global pillar meetings under IWS (integrated Work systems) model.
• Design, implement, and maintain Pest and Hygiene standards as per the Global company guidelines.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Quality Assurance and Quality Control teams, fostering an initiative-taking and detail-oriented culture.
• Set clear objectives, manage performance, and identify training needs to build a high-performing team.
• Champion a "quality-first" mindset across all departments, including production, procurement, and logistics.

Supplier & Customer Quality Assurance:

• Develop and manage the supplier approval and performance monitoring program to ensure all incoming materials meet strict quality and safety specifications.
• Work collaboratively with the procurement/supply chain teams to audit and develop key suppliers.
• Serve as the senior point of contact for customer quality inquiries and complaints, ensuring thorough investigation and professional resolution.

Regulatory and Legal Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with all relevant legislation in place.
• Act as the primary liaison with regulatory authorities e.g. KEB’s and third-party certification bodies.
• Oversee and lead all external audits (customer, regulatory, certification) and ensure timely closure of any non-conformances.
• Stay abreast of changes in legislation and industry best practices, ensuring the QMS is updated accordingly.

What are we looking for?

• Education: Bachelor's Degree or higher in Chemical engineering, Food Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience: A minimum of 8-10 years of experience in a quality assurance management role within a manufacturing industry preferably FMCG. A proven record at a senior level is essential.
• Technical Expertise: In-depth knowledge of quality management systems (ISO 90001, IS0 17025, ISO 9004,GLQ, EQuAta, MATQUIS

Skills and Competencies

• Leadership: Proven ability to lead, influence, and motivate a team and the wider organization. Ability to make critical decisions under pressure.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal teams, senior management, customers, and regulatory officials.
• Analytical & Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills with a data-driven approach to problem-solving and root cause analysis e.g., 5 why, RCA, IPS and UPS
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and translate business goals into a tangible quality vision and plan.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.
• Project Management: Strong organizational and project management skills to manage multiple priorities and lead improvement initiatives.
• Proficient Microsoft Excel skills & ERP system (SAP)
• Good Interpersonal skills: Effective communication and influencing skills.