At Quaker Houghton, we make the essentials of everyday life possible and enable innovative approaches for a positive future. Our customers include the world’s most advanced and specialized automotive, steel, aluminum, aerospace, offshore, can and mining companies. Based in every corner of the world, our people are passionate about what we do.
About the Job
As Regional Quality Management System Leader (EMEA), you will be accountable for the continuous improvement of quality programs across your assigned region.
Reporting to the Global Quality Assurance Leader, you will play a key leadership role in advancing Quality Management System (QMS) excellence, ensuring compliance with corporate policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements, while leading and supporting change initiatives that strengthen a culture of quality and continuous improvement.
You will work closely with regional and global stakeholders across Supply Chain, Operations, R&D, and Commercial functions, providing strategic direction, technical expertise, and hands-on leadership to ensure our quality programs deliver sustainable business results.
Join the team and help shape the future of quality at Quaker Houghton.
Location
This role can be based in any European country where Quaker Houghton has a legal entity and office presence.
A hybrid working arrangement is preferred, with approximately two days per week in the office for employees located near one of our key sites, including Uithoorn (Netherlands), Barcelona (Spain), Moncalieri (Italy), or Dortmund (Germany).
Regular domestic and international travel (approximately 25%) will be required.
What Will You Do?
• Act as the regional lead and advocate for Quality Management System performance and continuous improvement.
• Execute the corporate QMS vision and strategy within the assigned region.
• Lead and develop the regional QMS team, balancing strategic leadership with hands-on contribution.
• Define and implement regional QMS roadmaps (3–5-year horizon) aligned with business and sustainability objectives.
• Coordinate and maintain QMS certifications and standards, including ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and related frameworks.
• Develop the strategy for, and oversee, internal and external audits to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Manage relationships with internal stakeholders, external auditors, customers, and regulatory authorities.
• Lead the implementation and effective use of QMS software systems and performance metrics.
• Monitor evolving regulatory requirements and recognized quality standards, translating changes into effective regional strategies and operational practices.
• Act as a technical expert and sponsor for QMS training and capability development.
• Travel up to 25% within the region and internationally, as required.
What Are We Looking For?
• Experience in Quality Management with exposure to process- and risk-based QMS environments and leadership responsibility within a regional or multi-site setting.
• Strong manufacturing background; experience within the chemical or specialty chemical industry is preferred.
• Certified or experienced Lead Auditor for ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.
• Strong knowledge of ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and related standards.
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma). Black Belt certification or equivalent practical experience is an advantage.
• Degree in a technical or scientific discipline, or equivalent relevant experience where appropriate. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification preferred; advanced degree advantageous.
• Fluency in English is required; additional regional languages are an advantage.
Key Competencies
• Excellent leadership and influencing skills within a matrix organization.
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with practical execution.
• Passion for continuous improvement and the ability to lead change effectively.
• Strong communication skills across all organizational levels.
• Safety-conscious, values-driven, and collaborative approach.
What Do We Offer?
• Health insurance, pension plan, and region-specific benefits.
• Flexible working arrangements for employees located within reasonable proximity to one of our offices.
• An international, collaborative, and dynamic work environment.
• QH University, offering continuous learning and development opportunities for all career stages.
• Wellbeing initiatives, Colleague Resource Groups, and other DEI-focused programs.
• Global Giving initiatives offering paid volunteering leave to support causes that matter to you.
• A supportive team culture where collaboration and customer success go hand in hand.
Who are we?
We are a global leader in industrial process and mechanical engineering present in 40+ countries. We are continually improving and innovating so the world’s industrial manufacturers can stay ahead in a changing world. Throughout our 100+ locations, our engineers, chemists and industry experts partner with our customers to play a key role in helping them run even more efficiently, even more effectively, whatever comes next.
Our values: Live Safe, Exceed Customer Expectations, Drive Results, Embrace Diversity and Do Great Things Together.
Our core values embody who we are as a company, guide our decisions and inspire us. Our commitment to these values, in words and actions, builds a safer, stronger Quaker Houghton. They are the fundamental beliefs that guide our internal conduct and our relationship with the outside world.
Join the team and let's do great things together!
Are you a QH colleague?
Please contact your TA Partner, Honorata Florczak or your HRBP for more information about the role and/or how to apply.
EEO: Quaker Houghton is committed to equal employment opportunities and a workplace free of discrimination. Applications are welcome from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, gender identity, age, disability, ethnic origin, religion, or sexual orientation. In line with the EU Pay Transparency Directive, the salary range for this role is disclosed before the interview to support transparency and consistency in our hiring process. Candidates will not be asked about their salary history. Our company uses a structured job level and salary band framework to support objective and consistent compensation decisions.
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