Reporting to the VP of Strategic Sourcing, Procurement & Supplier Quality we are seeking an experienced Director of Supplier Quality to join the Global Operations team. The Global Operations team will oversee and lead the implementation of manufacturing, distribution logistics, sourcing, and supply chain activities. We will build, create, and enhance end-to-end operation strategies, processes, analytics, technology, and continuous improvement efforts.
As the Director of Supplier Quality, you will lead our global quality management efforts across technical & optics, hardgoods and softgoods. This position will be responsible for establishing and executing a comprehensive quality strategy that spans global teams, including product management, R&D, manufacturing facilities, and external suppliers. Your leadership will ensure that we not only establish to meet rigorous quality standards but also maintain a competitive edge in our fast-paced global marketplace. This role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record in leading cross-functional teams, coaching and developing, managing complex global product creation processes, and driving continuous quality improvements at every stage of the product lifecycle. This senior leadership role will oversee all aspects of Total Quality Management (TQM), driving excellence in both product creation and operational processes to meet and exceed customer expectations.
ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Lead Global Quality Strategy: Develop and execute a global quality management strategy that aligns with the business goals across three primary platforms: Adventure Sports, Outdoor Performance, and Precision Sports. Define and communicate quality objectives, priorities, and key results across regions and product categories.
- Team Leadership & Development: Inspire and lead a diverse, globally dispersed team of quality professionals. Oversee hiring, training, and professional development efforts to build a high-performing, collaborative team that is equipped to meet evolving challenges. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and quality excellence.
- Global Quality Assurance and Control: Lead the design and implementation of QA/QC processes that ensure the highest standards for all products, from design through production. Partner with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure that all technical hardgoods and softgoods meet functional, safety, and aesthetic standards. Assess production operations on a global scale to ensure compliance with quality standards.
- Compliance & Regulatory Oversight: Ensure that products meet all relevant industry standards, legal requirements, and environmental regulations globally. Stay current with changes in quality standards and regulations, and work closely with compliance teams to ensure ongoing alignment.
- Continuous Improvement & Innovation: Lead initiatives to identify and implement process improvements that enhance product quality, reduce waste, and drive cost efficiencies. Introduce innovative quality management practices that align with best-in-class industry standards.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with senior management, R&D, product management, and operations teams to integrate quality into the product development lifecycle from concept to consumer. Collaborate with Global Sourcing, Procurement, Manufacturing and Supply Chain teams to align supplier quality expectations, scorecards, and escalation protocols. Provide expert guidance on quality-related decision-making at every stage of product creation.
- Supplier Quality Management: Develop and implement a global supplier quality strategy that ensures consistent standards across all regions. Lead supplier audits, qualification, and performance monitoring programs to ensure compliance with quality expectations and continuous improvement.
- Vendor Quality Risk Mitigation: Establish proactive risk assessment and mitigation strategies for supplier quality issues, including contingency planning and corrective action protocols.
- Supplier Development & Engagement: Partner with Procurement and Sourcing teams to drive supplier development initiatives, including training, capability assessments, and joint improvement plans.
- Executive Reporting: Provide regular updates and executive-level reports on quality performance, compliance, continuous improvement initiatives, and key performance metrics. Highlight trends and emerging issues and ensure that leadership is informed about quality-related risks and opportunities.
- Global Quality Systems & Metrics: Standardize quality processes, documentation, and KPIs across all regions and supplier tiers to ensure consistency and transparency. Implement and maintain a global Quality Management System (QMS) that supports real-time visibility in supplier performance and product quality. Define and track key quality metrics (e.g., PPM, OTIF, NCRs, CAPAs) and drive accountability through regular reviews and dashboards.
REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or a related field
- 10+ years of experience in progressive quality management roles within a global, consumer products environment, including leadership roles in quality assurance, quality control, or Total Quality Management (TQM).
- Proven track record in managing global product creation processes, ideally in both hardgoods and softgoods categories within the sports or outdoor industry.
- Strong expertise in implementing and leading global quality management systems (QMS), including familiarity with ISO standards, regulatory compliance, and industry best practices.
- Exceptional leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and drive performance across geographically dispersed teams.
- Strong strategic thinking capabilities, with the ability to align quality initiatives with business objectives and improve overall product quality and operational efficiency.
- Expertise in data analysis and trend identification to inform decision-making and identify areas for improvement.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization, including senior leadership, product teams, and external stakeholders.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, changing environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.
- Global travel flexibility is needed to support our international operations and quality initiatives.
SALARY RANGE
The base salary for this role is $190,000 with a 20% bonus.
GEOGRAPHY
This role is based in either Irvine, CA; San Diego, CA; or Ogden, UT.
