Quality Systems Officer 

PURPOSE

Reporting to the Quality Assurance Manager (QAM), the Quality Systems Officer (QSO) supports the implementation and maintenance of the various elements of AARC’s Quality systems including change control, investigations, corrective & preventive action, internal audits etc. The QSO will administer the documentation system, master documents lists and databases; and will support to internal and external stakeholders.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Under direction of the QAM to develop, implement and maintain appropriate internal controls and quality management processes in order to preserve accreditation with a range of regulatory bodies and to build and maintain organisational capability.
• Act as the quality representative for various site project teams.  Prepare regular performance reports and metrics for the Quality Management System.
• Support the creation and maintenance of a high quality, productive and supportive educational environment for students.
• Develop and implement strategic and operational plans for the Quality and Compliance Business Unit consistent with AARC’s vision and mission.
• In conjunction with the QAM, efficiently and effectively report on business unit resources in accordance with its budget.
• Oversee the administration of the site change control program and database. 
• Review quality trends based on quality data system information and participate in the generation and implementation of continual improvement projects.
• Oversee/control the administration of the site Risk Management program, related documents and all site Quality Management System documents including the updating of files and the related databases.
• Ensure an organised approach to document control including issuing, tracking, and archiving duties and ensuring timely revisions.
• Ensure the timely release of documentation and providing appropriate notification to the site.
• Maintain up to date master lists of all the site documentation.
• Interact with customers and ensure compliance with agreed upon quality requirements.
• Comply with all relevant company policies.
• Identify and report any health and safety hazards.
• Act as a focal point for external and internal customer quality requirements and issues.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to the creation of a professional and collegial school structure and environment that supports the school’s objectives.
• Promote and facilitate effective working relationships and mutual trust and understanding between the school and other relevant stakeholders.

DUTIES

• Report on regulatory compliance and associated approvals. 
• Maintain effective communication and relationships with all regulatory, legislative and certification bodies on matters concerning compliance.
• Support the independent function and authority of the examiner’s role.
• Maintain the effectiveness and compliance of the company’s Quality Management System.
• Support the continuous improvement program throughout the company.
• Establish and maintain an effective audit program.
• Establish and maintain a quality awareness program.
• Support the implementation of an effective control process for quality documents.
• Develop and implement quality plans as projects dictate.
• Support customer feedback, complaints and compliments processes.
• Support the creation of a management review process, providing a means of monitoring and analysing the status of the Quality Management System.
• Administer and maintain the audit program.
• Administer and maintain AARC’s Risk Management and Business Continuity Plan.
• Support the execution of the strategic vision.
• Develop, review and enhance QMS policies and procedures.
• In consultation with the QAM, report on the budget and resources for the Business Unit within required limits.
• Participate in projects as required.
• Contribute to a rewarding and productive work environment by promoting and modelling effective and supportive quality assurance and compliance practices.
• Assist in ensuring that the provisions of relevant legislation are met as they apply to the school.
• Assist in the development and implementation of risk management policies and activities within portfolio areas.
• Meet set Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) as directed by the Dean.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Qualifications

Essential

• Formal qualification in auditing or Quality Management Systems or equivalent experience.

Desirable

• Lead Auditor in Quality Management Systems.
• Relevant qualification in Workplace Training or similar.

Experience

Essential

• Demonstrated experience of working in an aviation maintenance environment.
• Demonstrated experience in the establishment, implementation, review and continuous improvements of internal controls, policies, practices and processes.
• Demonstrable ability to audit, record, review and update management plans.
• Previous experience in a similar role within a Gulf Country.
• Experience in facilitating change in the workplace.
• Sound experience within multi-disciplinary and multicultural groups of employees.
• Demonstrated success in identifying, developing and implementing value add QA initiatives to businesses.

Desirable

• Experience in leading projects.
• Auditing of RTO / MTO operations for compliance with competent authority regulations and standards. E.g. GACA/FAA Part147, Saudi Skills Standards.
• Experience in process mapping, system development and drafting workplace operational procedures and work instructions.

Knowledge and Skills        

Essential

• Fluent reading, writing and speaking skills in the English language.
• Thorough knowledge, or the ability to rapidly acquire knowledge, of Competent Authority standards, regulation and policies relating to education providers in the GCC.
• Knowledge of compliance requirements as relevant to the aviation maintenance environment.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 standards.
• Maintain a personal and professional "continuous improvement" philosophy.
• Ability to engage and motivate others.
• Sound knowledge of contemporary QA practices and methodologies.
• Strong understanding of compliance frameworks.
• Knowledge and understanding of commercial practices and contractual legislation. 
• Demonstrated ability to prepare and write reports.
• Ability to interpret and apply legislation, regulations, policies and procedures, applicable preferably to a medium to large organisation.
• Superior interpersonal, written and oral communication skills with high attention to detail and accuracy.
• Demonstrated ability to resolve issues through negotiation and consultation with other team members.
• Well developed problem-solving and negotiating skills.
• Demonstrated ability to deal with sensitive issues and maintain confidentiality.
• Strong organisational skills including the ability to prioritise work, to deal with competing demands, manage time effectively and meet deadlines.
• Strong computer literacy skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office suite of applications and the ability to become an effective user of new computer systems.
  • Preparedness to undertake training as required.

Desirable

• Intermediate reading, writing and speaking skills in Arabic.

Personal Qualities

Essential

• Strong ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline driven environment.
• Assertiveness and an ability to remain professional and measured in approach, regardless of the situation.
• Ability to work both independently and within a flexible team environment.
• Ability to foster a customer focused working environment and build and maintain rapport with staff and students.
• Ability to interact with internal and external customers from diverse cultural backgrounds, displaying awareness of cross-cultural communication issues.
• Willingness and ability to demonstrate initiative and accept responsibility.