Head of Quality (Defense)

TL;DR

Head of Quality (Defense): Leading quality and specialist assurance functions to ensure corporate and operational business process compliance within a highly regulated defense environment with an accent on ISO standards and regulatory frameworks. Focus on driving a culture of accountability, managing enterprise risk, and safeguarding customer confidence through robust product assurance.

Location: Irene, South Africa

Company

hirify.global is a leading global provider of radar and electronic warfare solutions for the defense and security sectors.

What you will do

• Lead the Quality and Product Assurance functions to ensure products consistently meet customer, contractual, and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee the implementation, certification, and continuous improvement of ISO 9001, EN 9100, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 management systems.
• Serve as a key executive advisor to leadership on quality, SHE (Safety, Health, and Environment), and enterprise risk management.
• Manage internal, supplier, and external audit programs to verify compliance and system effectiveness.
• Drive process optimizations and continuous improvement to enhance quality and delivery performance.
• Lead and develop the Quality, Compliance, and assurance teams, managing budgets and succession pipelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Quality Management, Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.
• At least 10 years of relevant experience with a minimum of 3 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of ISO 9001, EN 9100, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001.
• Experience with aerospace and defense regulatory compliance, including SACAA requirements.
• Must be based in South Africa.

Nice to have

• Postgraduate qualification in Quality, Risk Management, or Business Management.
• Lead Auditor certification for ISO 9001 / EN 9100.

Culture & Benefits

• Flexible working models to support work-life balance.
• Attractive salary and special payments.
• Structured onboarding, targeted training programs, and tailored talent development.
• Innovative working atmosphere with modern premises and expert networks.
• Occupational health and safety programs and ergonomic workstations.