Supplier Quality Engineering Manager

Position SummaryDevelops, implements, leads, and drives supplier quality strategies for the supplier quality and development groups. Provides local leadership in the implementation, execution, and enforcement of commodity quality strategies in support of business growth. Manages a group of salaried and hourly direct reports. Defines criteria for quality competitiveness evaluation for new manufacturing technologies, new products, and new suppliers.Key ResponsibilitiesSupplier Quality Strategy:Create, execute, communicate, and maintain supplier quality strategy for commoditiesManage a team of direct reports to facilitate execution of supplier quality goals and objectivesCoordinate Supplier Quality Management Engineers (SQME) activities for new product development and current product changesCreate and implement Supplier Vetting Strategy, Supplier Capability Assessment, Supplier Selection, and Key Supplier Performance MetricsDevelop and implement supplier quality roadmap in collaboration with Global Supply Management Manager and Quality DirectorCreate and implement global commodity quality requirementsBenchmark suppliers on best-in-commodity production strategiesSupplier Quality ManagementServe as center of expertise for manufacturing processes within the respective commodityDevelop compliance matrix models and assess supplier competenciesLead supplier quality vetting and selection processWork closely with Global Commodity Manager and Engineering to improve Quality/Cost/TimeIdentify quality improvement opportunities and drive continuous improvement programsEstablish and lead supplier technical site assessments; coordinate supplier process audits and corrective action auditsLead resolution of complex supplier quality issues and serve as escalation pointConduct supplier quality training and develop local Supplier Development EngineersIdentify new technologies supporting business growth and product leadershipTrack and communicate global commodity industry trends and opportunitiesEstablish KPIs to monitor supplier performance over mid and long-termMonitor supplier performance and coordinate visits to domestic suppliers (US, Canada, MX)Education & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Engineering or technical field (Mechanical, Industrial, Production Technology) required10+ years of professional experience in Quality, Production, Logistics, or Cost/Process Planning10+ years of Supply Management experience in an automotive production environment preferredProven record in Manufacturing, Supplier Quality, and Process ImprovementDemonstrated competence in vendor assessment and negotiationExperience presenting to high-level management (internal, suppliers, and customers)Required Skills & CertificationsVDA 6.3 Process AuditorKnowledge of APQP, FMEA, Six Sigma, and process capability analysis toolsSix Sigma Black Belt preferredStrong MS Office and project management skillsExcellent verbal and written communication, analytical, and leadership skillsAbility to independently troubleshoot issues and determine course of actionKey CompetenciesBusiness Acumen, Process Management, Interpersonal Savvy, Organizational Agility, Creativity, Learning on the Fly, Drive for ResultsAdditional InformationTargeted Commodities: Electronics, Forgings, Die-Castings, Stamping, Bearings and Bushings, Seals, Powdered MetalsCommodity size: $250M–$500M per yearTargeted suppliers: 100–250Travel required: 50–75%