Quality Manager
About the role
Suzano is expanding its operations in the U.S. and is seeking an experienced Quality Manager to lead our quality function at the paper manufacturing facility in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.
Responsibilities
Quality System Leadership & Process Improvement: Lead the implementation and continuous improvement of quality management tools and systems focused on process performance, defect reduction, and non-quality loss elimination.
Drive a hands-on, operational approach to quality, working directly on the production floor alongside manufacturing teams to identify root causes and implement sustainable solutions.
Leverage structured problem-solving methodologies (A3, 5 Whys, FMEA, and similar tools) to address quality issues and document measurable outcomes.
Leverage statistical analysis tools, including capability and repeatability studies (Gauge R&R), to assess the effectiveness of quality testing, optimize test frequency, and improve measurement accuracy across lab operations.
Customer Quality Management: Serve as the primary technical interface between the facility and external customers, managing the full complaint resolution cycle, from initial analysis through corrective action, reimbursement, and closure. Translate customer pain points into internal improvement initiatives, ensuring effective feedback loops between commercial relationships and production operations. Maintain and strengthen existing customer relationships built on technical credibility, providing reliable, data-driven responses to quality concerns.
Data Analysis & Reporting: Analyze existing quality data to identify trends, build performance baselines, and drive targeted improvement initiatives. Develop and maintain quality metrics and dashboards to monitor KPIs, track progress against goals, and support data-driven decision-making at all levels. Present findings and recommendations clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including senior leadership and cross-functional peers.
Team & Laboratory Management: Lead, develop, and support a team. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence within the quality team. Partner with Production, Engineering, and other departments to align quality priorities with business objectives and influence change across the organization.
Qualifications
Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field. Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in quality engineering or quality management, with significant time spent in operational/process-focused roles. Equivalent hands-on experience in a qualifying role will be considered. Industry experience in pulp and paper, paper packaging, or extrusion is required. Prior experience managing or mentoring technical teams is strongly preferred.
Skills & Competencies: Proven track record applying quality improvement methodologies (A3, 5 Whys, FMEA, SPC, Gauge R&R/MSA) to achieve measurable results in a manufacturing environment. Strong statistical analysis skills with the ability to interpret data, identify patterns, and draw actionable conclusions. Hands-on experience with customer complaint management, from root cause analysis through resolution and financial reimbursement processes. Proficiency in SAP and advanced Microsoft Excel for quality data tracking, analysis, and reporting. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to navigate conversations with customers, production teams, peers, and senior leadership with equal credibility. ASQ certification (CQE, CQM, or equivalent) is a plus.