This is a well-established, globally connected specialty manufacturing business operating across multiple sites in Australia and New Zealand. With a strong track record in industrial manufacturing and a clear commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement, the business is investing in its ANZ operations to build the foundations for long-term performance uplift.
Underpinned by a disciplined operational philosophy, the business fosters a culture of accountability, curiosity and collaboration. People here are encouraged to challenge the status quo, speak directly, and work across functions and regions to deliver outcomes that matter. For someone who thrives in a structured but dynamic manufacturing environment, this is a business where your contribution will be visible and valued.
About the Role
Reporting to the Head of Manufacturing, the Quality & Operational Excellence Manager is a strategically important role with accountability for lifting quality standards, embedding CI discipline, and improving operational performance across all ANZ manufacturing sites.
This is a hands-on leadership position that requires you to work closely with site leaders, engineering, EHS, and a global CI and quality framework. You will own the GMP and quality management systems for the region, lead internal and external audit programs, and drive measurable improvement in efficiency and productivity across the network. The role currently has no direct reports but carries real influence and the expectation to build a team over time.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead GMP, quality systems and CI programs across the ANZ region
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory, customer and company requirements
- Manage and lead internal and external audit programs
- Drive quality and OE metrics; analyse performance trends and communicate to the business
- Facilitate workshops and training to improve operational outcomes across sites
- Identify and prioritise issues; develop and implement practical solutions
- Foster an operational excellence mindset across safety, quality and productivity
- Benchmark internally and externally to identify cross-site improvement opportunities
- Build a culture of constructive feedback and continuous learning
Skills & Experience
- Tertiary qualification in Science, Engineering or related field
- Proven track record in Quality Management within paper, chemical, pharma or FMCG manufacturing
- Strong experience in CI methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma or equivalent)
- ISO 9001 accreditation
- Experience with SAP or equivalent ERP system
- Strong leadership, influencing and project management capability
- Ability to work across multi-site environments and manage competing priorities
- Excellent analytical, problem solving and communication skills
- Experience developing, standardising and automating quality and business processes
What’s On Offer
- Genuine remit to shape the quality and OE function across the ANZ region
- Collaborative, high-performing culture with strong leadership support
- Global business with access to international best practice and networks
- Long-term career development potential as the function grows
How to Apply
To learn more or to have a confidential conversation about this opportunity, please click “Apply” or contact Tim Barraclough at Sharp & Carter on tbarraclough@sharpandcarter.com.au
