6 February 2026 | Insights, Our People
Meet Simmerdeep Kaur, EFP’s Quality Assurance Manager, and learn what a typical day in QA looks like at our Northampton manufacturing site.
A Day in the Life of a Quality Assurance Manager in Manufacturing | EFP
Day in the Life Of: Simmerdeep Kaur
Role: Quality Assurance (QA) Manager
At Engineered Foam Products (EFP), quality and safety are part of how we work every day. In this “Day in the Life” feature, we speak with Simmerdeep Kaur, our Quality Assurance Manager, about her 17-year career journey, what QA looks like in a manufacturing environment, and what keeps her motivated at EFP.
How long have you been with EFP?
When I first joined the company, I thought it would be a short stop on my career path. I started as a packing operator, unsure of what lay ahead. Seventeen years later, I’m proud to say I’ve grown into the role of QA Manager, having journeyed through positions as Quality Technician and Quality Coordinator.
Along the way, I’ve witnessed the company evolve from Tuscarora to DS Smith and then Engineered Foam Products — and I’ve evolved with it.
What does a typical day look like?
Each morning begins with a review of my emails and daily schedule.
I then head out for my quality and health & safety walk, a routine that keeps me grounded in the core values of our operations.
“These walks aren’t just about compliance they’re about connection, awareness, and proactive care. It’s one of the best ways to keep quality and safety real, not just paperwork.”
Simmerdeep Kaur, Quality Assurance Manager
Daily meetings follow, where collaboration and communication drive our shared goals. As the day progresses, challenges emerge whether it’s a quality concern, a health & safety issue, or a customer or supplier escalation. I’m often the go-to person for resolving these matters, and I take pride in being a trusted point of contact.
What do you like most about your role?
I love that no two days are the same. The dynamic nature of my role keeps me engaged, constantly learning, and always adapting. It’s never repetitive, never dull – and that’s what makes it so rewarding.
How has your development been supported?
The company’s culture has been the cornerstone of my journey. From day one, I’ve felt valued and respected. Here, everyone is treated equally, and there’s no room for discrimination.
I’ve been given the opportunity to grow not just professionally, but academically as well. That support has been instrumental in shaping who I am today.
Why do you think you have stayed at EFP for so long?
Incredibly supportive managers and colleagues whose guidance and encouragement have helped me navigate challenges and seize opportunities. This environment of mutual respect and shared purpose has been key to my development.
Seventeen years in, I still feel motivated — I’ve built a career here, but more importantly, I’ve built a sense of purpose. Every day brings something new to learn, a new challenge to tackle, and a new reason to be proud of the work we do.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time I like to relax by listening to music, watching movies or cooking.
Quality Assurance Manager FAQs
What does a Quality Assurance (QA) Manager do in manufacturing?
A QA Manager oversees quality systems and standards across production, supports audits, investigates issues, and works with teams to prevent defects and maintain compliance.
What does a typical day look like for a QA Manager?
A typical day includes reviewing priorities, shopfloor quality and health & safety walkarounds, daily meetings, problem-solving, and handling customer or supplier escalations.
Why are quality and health & safety walkarounds important?
They help spot risks early, reinforce standards, and encourage proactive conversations—supporting a culture of quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
How do you start a QA career in manufacturing?
Many people begin in production or technician roles, then build quality knowledge through training, procedures, root-cause thinking, and hands-on experience.
What skills make a strong QA Manager?
Attention to detail, clear communication, calm decision-making, and strong collaboration—plus a practical, structured approach to solving problems.
How does EFP support training and development?
EFP supports development through on-the-job learning, supportive leadership, and opportunities to grow professionally and academically over time.
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