Job Description

Job Summary: NQA is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Technical Accreditation Manager to join the UK Regulatory team. this role focuses on the maintenance and response to external audit findings, management of the external witnessed audit program and project management to develop new products and drive continual improvement. NQA provides accredited certification, training and support services to help customers improve processes, performance and products and services. We have issued over 50,000 certificates to clients in over 90 countries resulting in a yearly revenue of around 100 million Euro. NQA was acquired by Kiwa in 2024, a global leader in the Testing, Inspecting and Certification (TIC) sector. This is a remote role with the need to travel frequently and be available to attend meetings at our Dunstable office. About the role:

Management

Line Manager to both the Quality Coordinator and the Senior Administrator Provide data and analytical reports for key meetings such as (but not limited to) The impartiality Committee, The Management Review, Directors Strategy meeting

Accreditation Management

Maintenance and response to external audit findings (e.g managing the responses and communications through the UKAS portal etc) Facilitate the external witnessed audit process (including the provision of a technical review of pre-audit information ahead of submission) Provide technical oversight of the global management system to ensure continual improvement, the avoidance of obsolescence and continued relevance. Manage the document control process Provide independent continual performance evaluation of the operations and field teams to reduce dependency on the internal audit Support the internal audit process both domestically and overseas. Support the external audit process both domestically and overseas Provide a direct point of contact for external regulators

Project Support

Manage process improvement projects, which will include but not limited updating training, process documentation and ongoing support. Leading project management and technical support for scope extensions and new scheme development (This will include a number of projects ongoing simultaneously with high expectations of delivery and success) Leading international project management globally for new standards, ETS, change of critical offices etc including leading on projects that cross into KIWA group. Leading project management and technical support for the transition of accreditation and certification standards, which will include but not limited to updating procedures, processes, training materials, briefing employees etc. Become a technical expert in new standards and transitions before projects are handed over to business as usual.

General Requirements

Provide technical support at UK and International conferences where required Provide ad hoc technical support to office and field staff To undertake any other duties as appropriate within their competence, as required by the Global Accreditation Director from time to time.

Do you have what it takes?:

Essential Criteria

Degree-level education or equivalent. Certified Lead Auditor in ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or ISO 45001. Strong knowledge of ISO 17021, ISO 17029, and auditing principles. Proven ability to build effective relationships at all levels. Experience in the Testing, Inspection & Certification (TIC) sector. Solid understanding of accreditation standards and processes. Track record of meeting performance targets. Results-driven with sound decision-making using management data. Skilled in developing and implementing management systems. Regulatory experience and familiarity with accreditation concepts. Project management experience. Competent in risk assessment practices. Willing to travel; full UK driving licence.

Desirable Criteria

Understanding of international accreditation bodies (e.g., IAF). Confident presenter in professional settings. Performs well under pressure. International business exposure. Experienced internal auditor.

What can you expect from us in return?:
Competitive Salary - salary details on request Generous Annual Leave - Starting at 25 days plus Bank Holidays & Christmas Shutdown (3 days), increased entitlement with length of service 35 hours per week - Monday to Friday with hybrid working (2 days in the office per week) Private Medical Insurance Enhanced Family Leave - Enhanced maternity, adoption, and shared parental leave with 6 months full pay, plus 3 weeks full pay for paternity leave Long service rewards Salary Reviews Enhanced Pension Contributions Life Assurance - 4x your annual salary Cycle Loan Scheme Electric Power Point Loan Free eye tests and contribution towards glasses Welcome Pack - Filled with company-branded goodies to kickstart your journey with us

At Kiwa, we deliver results driven by our core values:

Ambitious, Reliable, and Engaged

the principles that guide how we work with colleagues, customers, and everyone we encounter. We are committed to fostering personal development, encouraging you to be ambitious, explore new ideas, and contribute to making the world a safer, more sustainable place. Here, you'll thrive in a dynamic environment with ample opportunities for growth and self-development.
As an equal opportunity employer, Kiwa celebrates diversity and is dedicated to building an inclusive, supportive workplace. We embrace flexibility in hiring talented individuals from all backgrounds globally, ensuring a work environment free from prejudice, discrimination, and intimidation. Inclusivity and equality are core to who we are, and we uphold these values without exception.

If you have any questions about this role and would like to speak a member of the Talent Team, please e-mail us at uk.careers@kiwa.com.