Supplier Quality Manager

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World.
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey! Tomorrow can’t wait, let’s shape it together!

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?

Leading and supporting quality programmes and collaborating to enable embedding the quality assurance framework and monitoring of procedures and product quality standards and performance for supplier quality management across FMC, THP Cons, MO & liquids categories, managing operational capabilities & readiness of our supply base end-to-end across our supply chain and quality management of our suppliers and third-party partners.

Managing  the Quality activities related to Suppliers Selection, qualification, and approval for FMC, THP Cons, MO & liquids suppliers ensuring capabilities are in place and enable supplier’s development. Working closely with all levels of the quality organisation, across functions and with external suppliers this role is responsible for the development and implementation of processes that support the selection of suppliers, development of supplier quality assurance and finished product quality standards through the entire product lifecycle.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Responsible for Quality management of the Suppliers Development Program, including planning yearly Supplier audit programmes (third-party and BAT audits & assessments), managing the development of new suppliers, and driving the capability framework of the current base.
• Lead collaboration with Above Market Quality, Procurement, Product, R&D and NC Operations to ensure business input is captured and that capability framework resources are allocated, delegated and deployed effectively.
• Lead the development and deployment of a fit-for-purpose Supplier Qualification and Maintenance programme by defining high-risk suppliers and opportunities, developing mitigation plans to ensure business continuity, and delivering the end-to-end framework for Supplier Quality Agreements.
• Conduct on-site assessment and qualification of supplier capabilities based on audits & assessments, including benchmarking activities with existing and potential new material suppliers and ensuring recommendations are implemented.
• Promote a continuous improvement culture within the Materials Supply base and BAT community through training, engagement and communication, while driving supplier quality improvements, cost reduction, ESG and simplification opportunities.
• Facilitate end-market blocking issues and oversee effective quality management in factories and end markets; lead activities related to quality category management, supplier & materials performance, and supplier capability development.
• Define and manage the deployment of quality processes and tools, monitor key quality performance indicators, drive continuous improvements, and ensure compliance with external regulations and internal/consumer quality standards.
• Manage supplier workstreams and reporting from manufacturing sites, DRBUs, end markets and external suppliers; lead internal audits, project delivery, RCA & CAPA implementation, process optimization initiatives.

What are we looking for?

• Degree or equivalent experience in Applied Science, Industrial, Materials, Food Technology, or Engineering management related fields.  
• Strong knowledge of statistical analysis of quality data and reporting & problem solving, design of experiments, statistical process control (SPC) by using Six-sigma tools and Continual Improvement Tools.
• Operations and Quality experience at manufacturing and above market teams.
• Significant product and manufacturing experience with strong Manufacturing Quality, FMC, THP Cons, MO & liquids, and knowledge.
• Experience in quality management and supporting innovation and performance continuous improvement.
• Significant experience working in a FMCG company, preferably in highly regulated environment (e.g. pharmaceutical, healthcare, or personal care).
• Good understanding of consumer-centric quality management principles, design of new processes, standards management, and supply chain models.
• Excellent project management, planning, and operational implementation skills.
• Good experience of contributing to continuous improvement practices with the ability to manage complex issues, work independently and manage detail as validated by experience.
  
  

What we offer you?

• We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
• Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
• Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
• You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
• We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes

WHY JOIN BAT?
We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.

We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an own venture).

Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to notify us. We are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential.