Quality Assurance Manager

Quality Assurance Manager page is loaded Quality Assurance Managerlocations: Kenilworth - Cape Towntime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todaytime left to apply: End Date: March 3, 2026 (7 days left to apply)job requisition id: JR104971It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!9 Months Fixed Term Contract The Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for leading and driving a commercially aligned quality assurance strategy across Babywear, Boyswear, and Children's Footwear categories. The role ensures products meet defined quality, safety, fit, durability, and compliance standards from development through to store performance. This position safeguards brand reputation, customer safety, and margin through proactive risk management and supplier capability uplift. Minimum Requirements Diploma or Degree in Garment Technology, Footwear Technology, Clothing Production, Quality Management or related field5-8+ years' experience in apparel and/or footwear quality managementDemonstrated experience in children's product safety complianceStrong understanding of footwear construction and bonding processesProven track record of reducing defects and improving supplier performanceExperience working with local and international suppliersProficiency in MS Office and quality reporting systemsWillingness to travel to suppliers and retail stores as requiredReliable own transport and smartphone Competencies Strong leadership and stakeholder management capabilityHigh technical credibility across apparel and footwearCommercial acumen and risk awarenessAnalytical and root cause problem-solving mindsetStrategic thinking with continuous improvement focusResilience and sound decision-making under pressureCredibility, integrity, and accountability Quality Management & Category Ownership Own end-to-end quality performance across Babywear, Boyswear, and Children's Footwear.Implement and maintain robust QA and QC systems across development and production.Establish and enforce category-specific technical standards and construction guidelines.Drive reduction in defects, returns, and customer complaints.Maintain category risk registers and mitigation plans. Children's Product Safety & Compliance Ensure compliance with local and international children's product safety regulations.Oversee flammability, chemical compliance, small parts testing, drawcord safety, and labelling standards.Manage laboratory testing protocols and approvals.Maintain a zero-tolerance approach to unsafe product. Testing, Standards & Technical Governance Define and monitor AQL standards across all categories.Oversee garment and footwear testing including shrinkage, colour fastness, seam strength, sole bond strength, flex testing, abrasion, hydrolysis risk, and slip resistance.Review lab reports and conduct root cause analysis.Drive corrective and preventative action plans. Footwear Technical Oversight & Industry Advancement Oversee last development, grading integrity, and fit consistency.Ensure bonding process control and component durability standards.Evaluate outsole compounds and long-term material performance.Monitor and evaluate emerging footwear machinery, automation, and sustainable manufacturing technologies.Advise on adoption of new technologies that enhance quality and consistency. Fit Strategy & Competitive Benchmarking Lead structured fit sessions and wear trials.Monitor evolving anatomical and fit trends in children's apparel and footwear.Conduct regular competitor benchmarking on quality, fit, construction, and durability.Present benchmarking insights and improvement actions to Buying and Sourcing. Supplier & Production Collaboration Act as key liaison between Design, Buying, Sourcing, and Manufacturing.Conduct technical factory audits and capability assessments.Develop and deliver supplier training aligned to company expectations in quality, sustainability, and compliance.Drive continuous improvement and supplier performance management. Store-Level Quality Integration Conduct store visits to assess real-life product performance.Analyse returns data and customer complaints to identify systemic issues.Close the feedback loop between stores and the support office. Sustainability & Ethical Alignment Partner with sourcing and sustainability teams on compliant material selection.Evaluate sustainable substitutions without compromising durability or safety.Ensure supplier adherence to ethical and legal standards. Leadership & Reporting Lead QA team performance where applicable.Coach internal teams and suppliers on quality best practice.Maintain accurate quality records, reports, and corrective action logs.Track and report category-specific quality KPIs.Quantify cost of poor quality and recommend mitigation strategies. Closing date - 03 March 2026 If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us! Discover who we areAt Pick n Pay, we are more than just a retailer; we are an organisation of dedicated people committed to creating an exceptional shopping experience for our customers and an enriching, vibrant work environment for our employees. Founded in 1967, Pick n Pay is one of the largest retail chains in South Africa, serving millions of customers across the African continent. Our reputation is built upon our commitment to offering customers the best in quality, and value.Experience the joy of being part of Pick n Pay. Let's shape the future of retail in Africa together. View our career opportunities.