Overview

Act as the Supplier Quality -APQP Subject Matter Expert (SME), ensuring full compliance with SSQAC, APQP requirements from our customer; AQAP 2110, AQAP 2105, and all NATO/contractual quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead all APQP Phase Gate Reviews (Phases 01-05) and champion the Zero-Defect Mindset across design, validation, and delivery.
• Execute and validate PPAP deliverables, including:
  • Capacity & Capability Reviews
  • MSA (Gauge R&R), SPC, Cp/Cpk Studies
  • Process Validation and Control Plans
• Deploy APQP Core Tools across suppliers and partners, including DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans, and SPC.
• Drive supplier quality readiness, functional audits, and effective CAPA (Corrective & Preventive Action) planning.
• Promote continuous improvement and cross-consortium sharing of APQP; Qualification of product and best practices., APQP / PPAP Deployment: Supporting from Phase01 to Phase05 to ensure PPAP/PSW approval and deliverable at each stage of phases.
• Lead suppliers through all APQP phases (Planning, Product & Process Design, Validation, Ongoing Production).
• Ensure full and timely submission of PPAP documentation including PSW, FMEAs, Control Plans, Capability Studies, and MSA.
• Validate and approve supplier quality documentation against customer requirements.
• Audit supplier processes to APQP requirements & NATO standards (AQAP 2105 / 2110), customer requirements (e.g., APQP, SSQAC, AQAP2110, 2105, etc.), and internal procedures.
• Drive supplier KPIs (OTD, PPM, CoPQ recovery, warranty performance).
• Escalate and resolve supplier non-conformances to prevent disruption to manufacturing programmes.
• Coach and support supplier team on Advance Product Quality Planning (APQP) and PPAP deliverables- APQP.
• Proactive risk mitigation each stage of APQP phases.

Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement

• Facilitate structured problem-solving (8D, Root Cause Analysis, PPS).
• Drive Lean / Six Sigma initiatives including Poka-Yoke, PFMEA improvements, and waste reduction.
• Analyse supplier quality data to identify systemic risks and drive long-term improvements.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Management

• Act as the customer's advocate, ensuring supplier outputs meet critical programme requirements.
• Build strong working relationships with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Procurement, Manufacturing, Programme).
• Coach suppliers and internal stakeholders on APQP/PPAP compliance and best practices.

Security & Compliance Note

It will be necessary to carry out background checks and suitability assessments (UK BPSS clearance OR UK SC clearance) as part of the hiring process. Read more on national security vetting levels. This is a UK Eyes Only role requiring Security Clearance due to the nature of defence and classified projects.

Why Join Us

• Deliver mission-critical defence technology with direct impact on national capability.
• Collaborate with leading engineering, MoD, and defence partners on a UK Eyes Only programme.
• Take ownership of product functional safety, zero-defect initiatives, and security governance across a £multi-million project.
• Strong knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, Control Plans, Capability Studies.
• Supplier auditing and assessment experience to AQAP 2105 / 2110 standards.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to analyse, interpret, and present technical and statistical data.
• Negotiation, influencing, and supplier development skills.
• Self-motivated, resilient, and able to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to interact with senior stakeholders.

What You'll Bring

• Essential Qualifications & Experience
• UK National (due to UK Eyes Only programme requirements).
• Eligible for or already hold SC-level (Security Check) clearance.
• Bachelor\'s or Master\'s degree in engineering, Quality, or a related technical discipline and experience.
• Significant level of experience in APQP, Supplier Quality within defence, aerospace, or regulated industrial sectors.
• Proven expertise in:
• APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, MSA, Control Plans
• AQAP 2110, AQAP 2105, and SSQAC requirements
• Supplier quality assurance and technical audit practices

Stand-Out Competencies

• Strong leadership in embedding safety and quality into product design and operational execution.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication, including government and MoD interfaces.
• Analytical problem-solver with practical experience in failure mode analysis and defect prevention.
• Security and compliance acumen, including classified data and export control management.
• Lean/Six Sigma mindset for continuous improvement and process optimisation.
• 26 days annual leave + bank holidays
• Employer-funded private health insurance, income protection, and life assurance
• Generous 10% employer pension contribution
• Customisable flexible benefits package
• Hybrid/flexible work model (where applicable)

Flexible Working

Flexible Working at GE Vernova: We know that life doesn\'t fit into a one-size-fits-all schedule. That\'s why we support flexible working, adaptable start and finish times or compressed hours where possible.

Additional Information

• Relocation Assistance Provided: No