SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Quality Manager 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118768  Occupational Certificate: Quality Manager 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - SERVICES SETA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  270  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0522/24  2022-02-03  2025-12-31 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-31   2029-12-31  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Quality Manager. Quality Managers plan, organise, direct, control and coordinate quality activities to ensure stated quality requirements and objectives are met within an organisation.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Ensure incoming, in-process and outgoing quality products or services
  • Manage the quality management department to meet performance targets
  • Manage a quality management system
  • Manage quality functions of an organisation to ensure product/service quality

    Rationale:
    This qualification has been designed to address the shortage of suitably qualified quality managers in the production as well as the services environment. This qualification establishes a South African standard for uniformity and consistency in the training of staff employed in various industries.

    Quality Managers are employed across all sectors of industry, services, parastatals and government departments. Experienced managers and people working in the quality environment requiring a formal qualification, will benefit from this qualification.

    The structure of the qualification provides for learning at a quality assurer level (structured as a part qualification) and progresses to the level of the operational quality management level. It forms the next steppingstone in the learning path which started as quality inspector, progressing to quality controller and then entering this qualification of which the exit points prepare learners for employment as quality assurers and eventually quality managers. This qualification contributes to national initiatives in terms of increasing competitiveness, creation of jobs, exports, and entrepreneurship development.

    This occupational qualification responds to a specific need in the South African labour market to provide a standard for the development of persons employed as quality assurers, quality managers and entrepreneurs in the quality industry. This promotion of a culture of quality is in line with international initiatives. Customers will receive quality products and services and thereby improve the competitiveness of the country. By offering consistency and uniformity in the practice of quality through a recognised qualification, the learners will be more employable. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.

    RPL for access to the Qualification:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Occupational Certificate: Quality Controller, NQF Level 4. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-01, Quality Management and Quality Management Systems, Level 5, 11 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-02, Quality Management and the 4th Industrial Revolution, Level 5, 3 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-03, Process Management, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-04, Fundamental Management Principles, Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-05, Managing Quality Assurance Department or Business Unit, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-06, Risk Profiling, Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-07, Internal and External Stakeholders, Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-08, Quality Management, Level 6, 8 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-09, System Management and Leadership, Level 6, 6 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-10, Management of Resources, Level 6, 6 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-11, Standards and Statutory and Regulatory Requirements, Level 6, 10 Credits
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-12, Design of Quality Measurement, Level 6, 10 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-KM-13, Quality Management Finances, Level 6, 6 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 84

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-01, Implement and Maintain Quality Assurance Processes in Compliance with Regulatory and Customer Requirements, Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-02, Conduct Quality Assurance to Ensure Product/Service Conforms to Standards and Regulatory Requirements, Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-03, Manage Documentation and Records within Quality Assurance Processes, Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-04, Improve the Effectiveness and Efficiency of Quality Assurance Processes, Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-05, Introduce new Products/Service, Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-06, Critically Analyse Qualitative and Quantitative Data and Use Information for Improvements, Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-07, Lead and Manage Wellbeing and Performance of Staff and Effectiveness of Teams, Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-08, Apply Principles of Business ethics and Accountability, 5, 2
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-09, Conduct Internal Audits of the Quality Management System Policies and Procedures, Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-10, Plan the Quality Management Function and Activities, Level 6, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-11, Develop Quality Business Unit Plans and Control the Achievement of Targets, Level 6, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-12, Manage Human Capital of the Quality Management Business Unit, Leve 6, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-13, Compile a Budget for Operational Expenses for the Quality Business Unit, Level 6, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-14, Identify, Acquire and Manage Necessary Resources for Execution of the Quality Function, Level 6, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-15, Manage Quality Management Systems, Level 6, 6 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-16, Execute Continuous Improvement and New Product/Service Implementation, Level 6, 6 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-17, Analyse and Evaluate Information and Report on Quality Management Functions, Level 6, 4 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-18, Apply Business Ethics, Accountability and Liability to Uphold Company Reputation, Level 6, 6 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-PM-19, Manage Quality Assurance Activities, Level 6, 8 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 74

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 132107-000-00-00-WM-01, Conduct Quality Assurance at Various Stages of the Process, Level 5, 28 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-WM-02, Maintain Productive and Effective Work Teams for a Quality Business Unit, Level 5, 16 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-WM-03, Render Quality Planning, Monitoring and Communication Services, Level 6, 24 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-WM-04, Attend to Standard Financial Planning, Monitoring and Controlling Procedures of the Quality Business Unit, Level 6, 20 Credits.
  • 132107-000-00-00-WM-05, Plan and Control Targets and Performance Standards in Accordance with Workplace Processes and Procedures, Level 6, 24 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 112 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Coordinate the implementation of quality assurance processes and activities to enhance an organisation's efficiency and profitability.
    2. Coordinate quality assurance functions to support operations and implement improvements.
    3. Control performance of the quality management system and staff to optimise product conformance and reduce waste.
    4. Plan and control the achievement of the quality business unit targets and performance standards.
    5. Plan for, monitor and control funds allocated to the quality business unit.
    6. Manage the quality management functions of the organisation.
    7. Improve the quality management function by implementing projects or change processes to optimise quality systems and processes.
    8. Analyse, evaluate, and build a case based on various types of collected data or information, taking into account legal, technological and ethical considerations. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Implement and maintain a system for incoming, in-process and outgoing quality assurance processes which ensure quality of inventory, product, and service effectively through planning, implementing, adherence to standard operating procedures (SOP), reviewing and revising.
  • Ensure cost-effectiveness of quality management processes through correct quality assurance resources allocation.
  • Evaluate, analyse and recommend supplier material data sheets (MDS), material safety data sheets (MSDS), certificate of analysis, quality control plans, and product/service requirements.
  • Recommend and implement changed processes and practices which ensure product/service conformance with customer requirements and compliance with regulations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Coordinate quality functions through e.g., meetings, coaching, communication, resources, teams and groups, to achieve consistent use of quality tools or publication of processes and conformances and maintain continuous improvement.
  • Ensure quality of operations by coordinating quality activities, the implementation of production part approval processes (PPAP), advanced product quality planning (APQP), failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), process capabilities, and measurement systems analysis (MSA).
  • Analyse performance of the Quality Management System (QMS) to support operations.
  • Implement continuous improvements through new and improved quality assurance processes and procedures.
  • Review documents and quality assurance processes based on customer feedback, introduction of new products/services or new technology.
  • Apply business ethics and accountability in quality assurance decision making and problem solving.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Plan resources and capabilities required to achieve set objectives.
  • Enable and control staff performance by compiling a skills matrix, putting procedures in place (HR related), ensuring competence of staff through coaching and scheduled training, coordinating and supervising overtime and shifts, overseeing first line supervision and applying disciplinary procedures.
  • Achieve objectives and performances of the quality assurance plan and quality assurance function through monitoring, controlling, and directing staff performance, course of events and day-to-day activities relating to quality management system.
  • Conduct a mid-term and final evaluation of the performance of the Quality Assurance department in terms of time, cost, budget, staff and other resources and identify shortfalls.
  • Monitor and evaluate product/service or process performance through regular analysis of performance reports and quality reports and by reporting factual data for informed decision making.
  • Develop an audit program or plan and schedule and conduct internal audits accordingly, report findings and make recommendations for conformance, improvement, waste reduction or prevention of reoccurrence of non-conformance.
  • Support external audits and ensure that recommendations for improvement are implemented.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Apply tactical planning concepts and principles in defining business unit objectives and targets and align service level agreements.
  • Formulate and agree upon team targets that meet defined outputs within the operational targets.
  • Establish performance agreements and conduct performance discussions in accordance with the principles that guide interpersonal relations.
  • Identify variables in the work environment that impact on the performance of an individual and apply corrective measures.
  • Identify areas of non-performance and formulate corrective measures to address deviations that are practicable and implementable.
  • Use leadership and decision-making models to build teams and direct quality business units.
  • Conduct performance appraisals.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Estimate costs for services in accordance with financial management principles.
  • Compile budget inputs in accordance with budgeting concepts and principles.
  • Implement management controls to ensure an effective financial management system.
  • Analyse financial statements and budgets in accordance with cost management concepts and identify variances.
  • Explain and apply the business risks and related consequences of non-compliance with budgets and cost estimates to specific scenarios.
  • Interpret and use data from financial management information systems in controlling costs.
  • Administer and use financial source documents for budget control purposes in accordance with workplace policies and procedures.
  • Develop strategies to promote quality throughout the organisation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Manage internal and external auditing processes.
  • Drive the quality management review.
  • Direct the implementation of the actions derived from the review.
  • Identify, acquire and manage necessary resources for execution of the quality function.
  • Identify and mitigate business risks and identify opportunities for improvement (response to risks).

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Implement and optimize changes and project quality systems relating to medium term project and source equipment which will improve and optimise quality which will in turn improve internal investments (worthwhile in the end).
  • Implement changes brought about by external and internal environmental factors.
  • Use resources (technology, continuous improvements, cost effectiveness and competitiveness) to ensure that quality objectives are met, and risks are minimised.
  • Respond to changing external and internal quality needs in order to remain competitive and sustainable.
  • Develop strategies for improvement of the system based on the outcome of the performance of the system and other influencing variables.
  • Evaluate quality performance trends and remove non-conformities.
  • Communicate proposed and actual enhancements to the quality management system according to quality assurance norms and standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Analyse various indexes, statistics, and acceptable market standards to determine performance of company and customer satisfaction.
  • Evaluate and use collected data to influence and build a case for presentation to management in order to improve products/processes.
  • Analyse and evaluate the data for adherence to legal and ethical requirements, thus resulting in upholding accountability.
  • Use information gleaned from collected data to ensure that the product/process is aligned to set standards and complies with technological requirements.
  • Apply ethical decision-making regarding deviations and non-conformance of product/service and demonstrate accountability for such decisions.
  • Apply problem solving skills to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of a quality management system. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualifications available from the American Society for Quality (ASQ), the Certificate in Quality Management of the University of Manitoba, Canada and the Certificate in Quality Assurance, offered by the New Zealand Organisation for Quality (NZOQ) were selected for international comparability.

    American Society for Quality (ASQ): Certified Quality Technician and Certified Quality Manager
    The qualifications in quality offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) are highly regarded both locally and internationally. The ASQ Certified Quality Technician qualification was selected for comparison with the South African standard.

    The core modules in the ASQ Certified Quality Technician qualification include the following: quality concepts and tools, statistical techniques, metrology and calibrations, inspections and tests, quality audits, and preventive and corrective actions.

    Canada: The University of Manitoba
    The University of Manitoba offers the Certificate in Quality Management. This qualification is designed to provide the learner with knowledge and skills necessary to be an effective manager in the field of quality management. The qualification consists of two modules:
  • Quality Assurance Planning.
  • Quality Control: Principles and Procedures.

    Quality Assurance Planning - This qualification introduces the learner to the field of quality and to the philosophy known as Total Quality Management (TQM). The qualification will enable the learner to explain, develop and implement quality assurance procedures, management practices, and tools and techniques. The learner will learn about the importance of a customer focus and the necessity for a continuous improvement culture in today's highly competitive global economy. Finally, the learner will be introduced to the requirements of ISO 9000:2000 and other quality system standards, and to the criteria for major quality awards such as the Malcolm Baldridge National Quality Award.

    Quality Improvement: Principles and Procedures-This qualification reviews the concepts, principles, and procedures of quality improvement, including prevention and detection, process capability and statistical tools for quality control. This qualification will introduce the learner to some of the basic concepts of statistical thinking, such as sampling, probability distribution and data analysis. The learner will learn practical application of those concepts through Statistical Process Control (SPC). The qualification will demonstrate how SPC control charts are designed, constructed, and interpreted. The learner will also be exposed to other tools and techniques for quality control, such as measurement, testing and inspection.

    New Zealand Organisation for Quality (NZOQ), Certificate in Quality Assurance, Qualification code OP5280
    The Certificate in Quality Assurance, of the New Zealand Organisation for Quality (NZOQ), focuses on the skills to manage and improve processes within organisations.

    The Certificate in Quality Assurance includes the following:
  • Add value to an organisation with modern quality management concepts, tools and techniques.
  • Use statistical information and Six Sigma to enhance the quality of performance, products and services.
  • Integrate environmental management and occupational health and safety into quality systems.
  • Build positive customer and supplier relationships.
  • Use stakeholder feedback to improve a product or service.

    Conclusion
    The South African qualification is comparable to what is found in the selected comparisons in terms of the content that the qualification covers and the level of skills that have to be developed. It is, however, designed to meet current transformational challenges in South Africa. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Diploma: Accommodation Operations and Services, NQF Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Quality, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Quality Management, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    To qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statements of results and work experience records.

    Additional legal or physical entry requirements
  • None

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers
    Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website.

    The curriculum title and code are: Quality Manager and 132107-000-00-00.

    Encompassed Trades
    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD
  • None

    Assessment Quality Partner (AQP)
  • Services SETA

    Related Part-Qualification
  • Occupational Certificate: Quality Assurer, Level 5.

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION
  • None 
    		•

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.