Supplier Quality Team Leader

IMI plc
IMI plc is a sector focused organisation at the forefront of delivering motion and fluid control technologies that create a more sustainable world, improving the quality of life for our customers and communities and ultimately delivering our purpose of Breakthrough Engineering for a Better World.

We help OEMs across life science and fluid control industries improve the performance of their devices, enabling better scientific research, faster diagnosis of diseases, better medical treatments, and more efficient machines, dramatically improving life for everyone.

Our one big team work fairly and effectively but most importantly together to ensure we maintain the foundations that have enabled IMI's success through over 150 years of heritage.

Role Overview:

For our FAS Medic SA site in Switzerland, we are looking for dedicated Supplier Quality Team Leader to join our team, and lead the Supplier Quality function to ensure that all sourced materials and components meet the company's quality standards. The position will drive continuous improvement in supplier performance, support strategic sourcing initiatives, and ensure compliance with regulatory and customer requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy

• Define and implement the Supplier Quality strategy in alignment with business goals.
• Lead and develop a team of Supplier Quality Engineers (SQEs), ensuring clear objectives and performance metrics.
• Represent the Supplier Quality function in cross-functional initiatives, including PLM and digital transformation projects.

Supplier Development & Performance

• Oversee supplier audits, assessments, and qualification processes (e.g., VDA 6.3, APQP, PPAP).
• Lead supplier development workshops to improve quality, productivity, and cost performance.
• Monitor and report on supplier KPIs such as SOTIF, SPPM, and cost of poor quality.

Issue Resolution & Compliance

• Manage non-conformance investigations, corrective actions, and supplier escalation processes.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and internal quality systems (ISO, GMP, etc.).
• Support regulatory and customer audits involving supplier quality.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with Strategic Buyers, R&D, Operations, and Compliance teams to align supplier quality with product and process requirements.
• Act as the primary quality contact for key suppliers, facilitating technical discussions and resolution of quality issues

Critical Competencies for Success

• Bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, Quality, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in Supplier Quality or Quality Engineering, preferably in Life Sciences or high-tech manufacturing.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams and cross-functional projects.
• Strong knowledge of quality tools and methodologies (e.g., 8D, FMEA, SPC, Lean Six Sigma).
• Familiarity with ERP and PLM systems; experience with digital quality platforms is a plus.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills coupled with a keen attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills, enabling seamless collaboration with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Proficiency in both English and French (spoken and written) is mandatory for effective communication with our diverse suppliers.
• Eligibility to work in Switzerland is mandatory. 

Health & Safety

The physical demands described within the Key Duties & Responsibilities section of this job description are required to perform the essential functions of this position.  Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.  Please contact your local HR representative to discuss the specific Work Conditions and Physical Requirements of this role. Health, Safety, and Environmental Duties – At IMI we are all personally committed to protecting our people, minimizing our impact to the environment, the communities we operate in and our company. All members of our workforce have the duty to ensure the health, safety and welfare of themselves, others, and the environment. Every employee is expected to follow all HSE operating procedures, also to challenge any observed behaviors or unsafe acts.

Code of Ethics

IMI requires the highest standard of ethics in all business dealings, particularly with customers, suppliers, advisors, employees, and the authorities. In accordance with the IMI Way: Our Code of Responsible Business.

Changes to This Job Description

IMI may amend this job description in whole or part at any time.

IMI is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status.