The Director of Corporate Quality will be responsible for planning, directing and implementing quality policies, programs, and initiatives for LaBarge, Inc.

Essential Functions:

• Works closely with the VP’s of Operations, Director of Supply Chain, Director of Information Systems and Technology, Directors of Operational Excellence, General Managers and Quality Managers to align our quality initiatives and processes with the overall business strategy.  Analyzes, evaluates and presents information concerning factors such as production capabilities and manufacturing problems for consideration by other members of management team. 
• Suggests and debates alternative methods and procedures in solving problems and meeting changing market opportunities. Cooperates with other top management personnel in formulating and establishing quality policies, procedures and goals.
• Coordinates quality objectives and goals with our production procedures to maximize product quality and minimize costs. 
• Champion Quality Maturity Assessment and Six Sigma tools and programs and support Lean and 5S initiatives.  Serves as our company’s representative for any quality certification systems and is responsible for administrating such systems to assure accurate compliance.  Interfaces with ISO, QS and FAA as required to maintain a positive working relationship.
• Maintain and expand global supplier quality metrics reporting tool that includes timely and accurate compilation of fact based data collection and other reporting tools to drive improved quality and delivery performance.
• Responsible for working with key suppliers in developing and enhancing systemic quality management plans for both new and sustaining products. In partnership with the  Director of Supply Chain, Commodity Managers, facility materials & quality managers and others, assist in the refinement and continued execution of commodity specific sourcing strategies.
• In conjunction with respective LaBarge Manufacturing and Quality Teams, lead a pro-active approach with the supply base in the determination and prompt problem resolution of root causes for quality excursions.
• Participate in new program and product introduction in identifying issues that may hinder production performance within the supply base and lead coordination of appropriate corrective action when necessary. Develop factual and responsive supplier capacity planning tools and accompanying capacity improvement actions to improve overall supplier on-time delivery performance.
• Recommend innovative and timely corrective actions to supply issues that are obstacles to receiving high quality cost effective materials in alignment with LaBarge’s production demand.

• Exceptional knowledge of 6 Sigma concepts, quality certification policies and regulatory agencies (ISO, QS, FDA & FAA)
• Must be a proven leader and team player, with a track record in change management.
• Strong team builder, mentor and coach.  Creative and innovative approach to problem resolution.
• Demonstrated ability to implement new quality process techniques and continuous improvement programs at all levels of manufacturing operations.
• Strong communication, planning, organizational and project management skills are required.
• Must be able to develop and deliver customer presentations that address key solutions (root causes) to quality and other key business issues.
• Negotiation and conflict management skills.
• Understanding and experience with manufacturing principles including JIT, Demand Flow, Lean Manufacturing.
• Experienced and certified Black\Green Belt
• Computer skills – Intermediate level in Microsoft Office and Project Management.

• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field, Graduate degree is desirable. 
• 10 to 15 years minimum experience in all phases of quality management is required. 
• Experience in an EMS and/or Aerospace & Defense industries is a plus. 
• Experience with the Quality Maturity Assessment methodology tool is a plus.