Compliance Manager (IATF & ISO)

General:

The Compliance Manager is responsible for leading and sustaining regulatory and standards compliance across all automotive manufacturing operations at JSC. This role serves as the primary authority on compliance strategy, ensuring adherence to IATF 16949, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001. The Compliance Manager leads cross-functional teams, drives organizational accountability, and fosters a culture of compliance and continuous improvement. This role is also responsible for overseeing internal audit programs, managing certification processes, mitigating compliance risks, and championing quality initiatives aligned with strategic business goals.

Role & Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of compliance systems that support operational and business excellence.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and applicable customer-specific requirements by directing compliance planning and execution across all departments.
• Lead and coordinate third-party certification and surveillance audits, acting as the primary liaison with auditors and management.
• Develop and lead the internal audit program by mentoring internal auditors, setting audit priorities, and ensuring the quality and consistency of audit practices.
• Supervise and guide cross-functional teams during external audits from certification bodies, customers, and regulatory agencies, ensuring successful outcomes.
• Champion a proactive compliance culture by leading the identification, investigation, and resolution of non-conformances, and driving timely corrective/preventive actions (CAPA).
• Own and oversee the creation, implementation, and enforcement of compliance-related policies, SOPs, and documentation across the organization.
• Ensure organization-wide alignment of operational practices with current compliance obligations and emerging regulatory trends.
• Lead the document control function, ensuring timely updates, accuracy, and accessibility of all compliance-related documentation.
• Drive organizational engagement by conducting training, workshops, and communications that promote compliance awareness and accountability at all levels.
• Act as a key advisor to senior leadership on compliance risks and opportunities, providing insights to support strategic decision-making.
• Monitor and interpret changes to regulatory and industry standards, and lead the organization in responding effectively to evolving requirements.
• Assess compliance risks and implement mitigation strategies in collaboration with risk management and operational leaders.
• Lead cross-functional improvement projects focused on enhancing compliance performance, reducing risk, and optimizing system efficiency.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality, Compliance, or related technical field.

Minimum 5 years of experience in a compliance, quality, or audit role in the automotive manufacturing industry.

Proven leadership experience in managing compliance programs, audits, and cross-functional teams

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to deliver training and present to leadership.

Strong knowledge and practical experience with IATF 16949; familiarity with ISO 14001 and ISO 45001.

Experience managing internal/external audits and compliance certifications.

Strong understanding of automotive industry requirements and core quality tools (APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, SPC) and continuous improvement methodologies

Environmental & Physical Demands:

The environmental conditions and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the essential duties of this job the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts, sharp objects and constant loud noise. The employee is regularly required to: use their hands to tough and handle objects; hear; talk; see, including close vision; stand for long hours; stoop; kneel; sit; climb; balance; and occasionally lift up to 30 pounds.

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