Corporate Quality Lab Manager

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

JOB MISSION:

Manage personnel and activities to ensure effective and efficient operation of the Corporate Quality Laboratory. Conduct analysis of material, WIP, and finished goods to support NB Innovation, Development, and Production Teams as they work on current and future styles. Input and maintain quality data for better reporting and easier decision making. Drive a culture of continuous improvement for the innovation, development, and manufacturing processes. Define, update, and communicate quality lab standards and test methodology assuring global laboratory standardization. Stay engaged with emerging industry technology for continuously improving the lab's performance and capabilities.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:
* Provide effective leadership to the corporate, regional, and factory quality teams. Develop, train, and evaluate assigned lab personnel and assure standard testing across global lab locations.
* Assure precise testing and data reporting to key stakeholders including Innovation, Product Development, and Domestic Production teams.
* Process owner of lab test standards, test methodology, and test plans.
* Serve as a valuable member to quality improvement teams providing problem solving or prevention guidance using quality tools such as Gage R&R, 8D, DOE, and FMEA.
* Create and manage lab performance metrics that are aligned with Quality and Stakeholder expectations. (e.g., turnaround time, lab productivity, lab efficiency, customer satisfaction, etc.)
* Manage and coordinate 3rd party testing when needed. (e.g., regulatory/customer requirements, increased capacity, different testing capabilities)
* Investigate the root causes for specific quality issues and determine/implement corrective and preventive actions to avoid reoccurrences.
* Manager and administrator of NB laboratory data management software used for better reporting and improved development decision making. Main point of contact with software provider to keep system updated, manage master data files, and drive continuous improvement initiatives regarding the software. Also, will lead training to end users of this software.
* Analyze data in various forms, create reports, and make data-driven recommendations drive process improvements.
* Manage the daily operation of the Quality Test Lab leveraging Lean and 6S principles to drive testing efficiencies.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:
* Minimum of a BS in Engineering or science-related discipline, and five years directly related manufacturing/quality and supervisory experience.
* Lean six sigma Green Belt or higher with specific experience in DOE and FMEA is preferred.
* Strong planning, prioritizing, and organizing skills necessary. Must be able to multi-task and manage multiple projects at once.
* Requires a high degree of independence and to influence others without direct control.
* Possess a sense of urgency required to work in a deadline driven environment.
* Experience with quality management tools and techniques (i.e., Lean, Six Sigma, Statistical Process Control and Failure Mode & Effective Analysis as applied to product manufacturing and development - Six Sigma certification preferred.
* ASQ CQE is preferred.

Regular Associate Benefits

Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks - opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs - that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You'll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword - it's part of our culture.

Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.

Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.

Flexible Work Schedule

For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced "Work from Anywhere" (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates and takes affirmative action to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran.