Supplier Quality Engineering Manager
Job Description
Position Summary
Develops, 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 Responsibilities
Supplier Quality Strategy:
Create, execute, communicate, and maintain supplier quality strategy for commodities
Manage a team of direct reports to facilitate execution of supplier quality goals and objectives
Coordinate Supplier Quality Management Engineers (SQME) activities for new product development and current product changes
Create and implement Supplier Vetting Strategy, Supplier Capability Assessment, Supplier Selection, and Key Supplier Performance Metrics
Develop and implement supplier quality roadmap in collaboration with Global Supply Management Manager and Quality Director
Create and implement global commodity quality requirements
Benchmark suppliers on best-in-commodity production strategies
Supplier Quality Management:
Serve as center of expertise for manufacturing processes within the respective commodity
Develop compliance matrix models and assess supplier competencies
Lead supplier quality vetting and selection process
Work closely with Global Commodity Manager and Engineering to improve Quality/Cost/Time
Identify quality improvement opportunities and drive continuous improvement programs
Establish and lead supplier technical site assessments; coordinate supplier process audits and corrective action audits
Lead resolution of complex supplier quality issues and serve as escalation point
Conduct supplier quality training and develop local Supplier Development Engineers
Identify new technologies supporting business growth and product leadership
Track and communicate global commodity industry trends and opportunities
Establish KPIs to monitor supplier performance over mid and long-term
Monitor supplier performance and coordinate visits to domestic suppliers (US, Canada, MX)
Education & Experience
Bachelor's degree in Engineering or technical field (Mechanical, Industrial, Production Technology) required
10+ years of professional experience in Quality, Production, Logistics, or Cost/Process Planning
10+ years of Supply Management experience in an automotive production environment preferred
Proven record in Manufacturing, Supplier Quality, and Process Improvement
Demonstrated competence in vendor assessment and negotiation
Experience presenting to high-level management (internal, suppliers, and customers)
Required Skills & Certifications
VDA 6.3 Process Auditor
Knowledge of APQP, FMEA, Six Sigma, and process capability analysis tools
Six Sigma Black Belt preferred
Strong MS Office and project management skills
Excellent verbal and written communication, analytical, and leadership skills
Ability to independently troubleshoot issues and determine course of action
Key Competencies
Business Acumen, Process Management, Interpersonal Savvy, Organizational Agility, Creativity, Learning on the Fly, Drive for Results
Additional Information
Targeted Commodities: Electronics, Forgings, Die-Castings, Stamping, Bearings and Bushings, Seals, Powdered Metals
Commodity size: $250M–$500M per year
Targeted suppliers: 100–250
Travel required: 50–75%