Quality Assurance Leader

Safran Helicopter Engines UK is a key part of the global Safran group, specialising in the maintenance, repair and overhaul of advanced helicopter engines for both civil and military customers. Based in Fareham, the UK facility acts as a European hub supporting operators across the UK, Ireland and beyond, delivering high-performance engineering solutions and technical support for a wide range of turbine engines. With a strong reputation for reliability, innovation and customer focus, Safran plays a vital role in keeping critical helicopter fleets operational worldwide.

The Quality Assurance Leader is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of regulatory compliance and quality are maintained across the civil maintenance, 21G production, and military maintenance facilities. The role includes planning, coordinating, and executing internal audits according to EASA/UKCAA/SACAA Part 145 and 21G requirements, as well as company procedures. The Quality Assurance Leader acts as a key advisor to the MRO and production work centres, providing guidance on regulatory and quality matters, supporting the resolution of technical and procedural issues, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
They are expected to manage both internal and external audit findings, coordinating timely and effective corrective actions, and ensuring that all required documentation is maintained accurately for regulatory review. The role requires proactive engagement with management and operational teams to promote best practices, identify trends and risks, and communicate requirements clearly. In addition, the Quality Assurance Leader will maintain professional relationships with regulatory authorities and customers during audit activities, representing company interests with integrity and transparency.
Strong leadership, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams and disciplines are essential for success in this position.

Company Values
Committed to a shared vision
*Communication Skills
*Customer Orientation
*Results Orientation & Accountability
Fostering an environment of trust
*People Management & Team Development
*Change Leadership, Agility & Adaptability
*Ethics & Integrity
Succeeding together
*Quality & Compliance Focus
*Collaboration & Cross-Functional Teamwork
Daring to innovate
*Operational Excellence & Efficiency
*Problem Solving & Analytical Skills

Work Safely
*Taking responsibility for your own safety and that of others.
*Working safely and complying with all safe work practices.
*Reporting all incidents, hazards and unsafe working conditions or behaviour you encounter to your line manager. Completing any actions assigned to you from an audit action plan.
*Complying with all SHE UK health, safety and environmental protection policies and procedures that are relevant to your work.

Treat People Fairly
*Familiarising yourself with all Harassment and Workplace discrimination policies and procedures and complying with them in the conduct of your duties.
*Ensuring that you do not harass, victimise, discriminate against, vilify or bully any other employee or anyone else that you interact with in the course of your employment.

Support SHE UK business
*Carrying out your work in a conscientious and proficient manner.
*Managing your own performance to ensure you meet the ongoing requirements of your role.

Essential:
*In-depth knowledge of EASA/CAA Part 145 regulations
*Previous audit experience of aerospace regulations (Part 21G/Part 145/AS9100)
*Strong understanding of QMS and audit processes.
*Excellent analytical and problem solving skills including use of tools (8D/RCCA)
*Ability to interpret and apply regulatory requirements
*Effective communication skills
*Organisational and Time-management skills
Desirable:
*Lead Auditor Qualification
*Knowledge of MAA/EMAR/SACAA regulations
*Ability to speak, read and write in French very advantageous
*Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies