Leading Automotive Components Co., Ltd.
POSITION SUMMARY
Responsible for implementing, supporting, and managing supplier development activities and supplier performance to ensure effective supplier selection, successful product launches, and consistent delivery of high-quality, defect-free products. The role focuses on driving supplier quality improvement, supporting new product introduction processes, conducting supplier assessments, and developing supplier capabilities to meet business, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Implement and maintain supplier development processes and requirements at assigned suppliers.
Support supplier qualification, supplier assessment, new product launches (APQP), and ongoing production requirements across regional and global operations.
Establish and maintain supplier quality system expectations, ensuring compliance with applicable industry standards and customer requirements.
Conduct supplier audits, assessments, and special investigations to evaluate manufacturing processes, quality systems, and operational capabilities.
Lead supplier APQP activities during new product introduction and product launch phases.
Monitor supplier performance metrics and drive continuous improvement initiatives to achieve quality, delivery, cost, and capacity targets.
Support reduction of PPM levels, improvement of supplier responsiveness, and effective resolution of supplier quality concerns through structured problem-solving methodologies.
Collaborate with Engineering, Purchasing, Manufacturing, and other cross-functional teams to resolve technical and quality-related supplier issues.
Facilitate supplier corrective actions and escalation activities when performance expectations are not met.
Provide training, coaching, and guidance to suppliers on quality systems, continuous improvement methodologies, and industry best practices.
Evaluate supplier capacity and capability, including sub-supplier management, and drive improvement actions when necessary.
Participate in supplier sourcing and qualification activities, including assessments of potential new suppliers.
Provide input and recommendations for commodity and sourcing strategies.
Maintain supplier performance scorecards and report key indicators related to quality, delivery, capacity, capability, and risk.
Support technical change management and engineering change implementation involving suppliers.
QUALIFICATIONS
To be successful in this role, the individual should demonstrate strong technical knowledge, analytical capability, and effective communication skills. The position requires close interaction with suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders across multiple organizational levels.
Education
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related disciplines.
Experience
Minimum 5 years of experience in Supplier Quality, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain Management, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Product Engineering, or related functions within a manufacturing environment.
Experience with manufacturing technologies such as:
Metal forming
Stamping
Fine blanking
Casting
Precision machining
Assembly processes
Electronic components, PCB/PCBA, or electric motor manufacturing experience is an advantage.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and customer requirements.
Strong understanding of Quality Management Systems and automotive core tools, including:
APQP
PPAP
PFMEA
Control Plan
SPC
MSA
Statistical Analysis
Problem Solving Methodologies
Initial Sample Inspection
Run@Rate
Experience conducting Product Audits, Process Audits, and Supplier Audits.
Proven ability to train suppliers in process capability improvement and structured problem-solving methodologies.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) or equivalent professional certification.
Certified VDA 6.3 Auditor or equivalent auditor qualification.
Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt, Shainin certification, or equivalent.
Experience within the automotive manufacturing industry.
Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement experience.
Knowledge of Customer Specific Requirements (CSR).
Experience in component cleanliness management and contamination control.
CORE COMPETENCIES
Supplier Quality Management
Supplier Development
APQP & Product Launch Management
Problem Solving and Root Cause Analysis
Process Improvement
Quality Systems & Auditing
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Conflict Resolution
Customer Focus
Analytical Thinking
Decision Making
Project Management
Communication and Influencing Skills
Integrity and Accountability
ADDITIONAL SKILLS
Fluent written and spoken English; additional language skills are an advantage.
Proficient in Microsoft Office and ERP systems (SAP preferred).
Ability to prepare technical reports, procedures, presentations, and business correspondence.
Experience working within global, multicultural environments.
Strong presentation and interpersonal communication skills.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
Willingness to travel extensively (up to 50% or more).
Strong intercultural communication and stakeholder management skills.
Self-motivated, proactive, and able to work independently.
Persistent and results-oriented, with the ability to drive issues to closure.
Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
HEALTH, SAFETY & COMPLIANCE
Comply with all applicable health, safety, environmental, and compliance requirements.
Promote a proactive safety culture and support continuous improvement in workplace safety performance.
Take appropriate precautions to ensure personal and colleague safety and promptly report unsafe conditions, incidents, or risks.
