SQM

a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb; } tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; } tr th { background-color: #f5f5f5; } Supplier Quality Manager (SQM) Location: China Department: Supplier Quality / Quality Management Reports To: Quality Director / Supply Chain Quality Director Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Supplier Quality Manager (SQM) to drive supplier quality excellence throughout the supplier development and product industrialization lifecycle. This role will be responsible for evaluating supplier technical capabilities, manufacturing processes, and quality systems, while ensuring that suppliers meet quality, delivery, cost, and technical requirements. The successful candidate will work closely with Engineering, Sourcing, Manufacturing, and Suppliers to support new supplier qualification, APQP execution, PPAP approval, process audits, and continuous improvement initiatives across a global supply base. Key Responsibilities Supplier Development & Qualification Lead supplier quality activities during new supplier selection and qualification. Perform supplier capability assessments, including manufacturing process, technical competency, capacity, and quality system evaluations. Conduct supplier audits and identify process risks, improvement opportunities, and mitigation plans. Support sourcing teams in supplier selection and sourcing decisions through technical and quality evaluations. Establish and maintain supplier quality standards and qualification processes. New Product Introduction (NPI) & APQP Management Drive supplier quality activities during New Product Introduction (NPI) and supplier development projects. Lead and monitor APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) execution with suppliers. Review and approve supplier quality deliverables, including: Process Flow Diagrams PFMEA Control Plans MSA SPC Studies Manage PPAP submissions and approvals according to customer and company requirements. Ensure successful completion of prototype, pilot build, and production launch activities. Technical & Manufacturing Process Assessment Evaluate supplier manufacturing processes and technical capabilities for components such as: Weldments and Fabricated Structures Machined Components Castings Forgings Hydraulic Components Powertrain and Transmission Components Mechanical Assemblies Assess critical process controls, special processes, and process capability. Collaborate with Engineering teams to ensure product specifications and critical quality characteristics are properly translated into manufacturing processes. Support process optimization and capability improvement initiatives. Supplier Quality Improvement Lead supplier root cause analysis and corrective action activities using methodologies such as: 8D 5 Why Fishbone Diagram FMEA Drive supplier performance improvements in quality, reliability, and process stability. Monitor supplier KPIs, including PPM, defect rates, audit findings, and customer complaints. Support cost reduction initiatives through waste elimination and process improvements. Quality System & Audit Management Conduct supplier process audits and quality system audits. Verify supplier compliance with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and company requirements where applicable. Lead supplier development projects and audit closure activities. Support escalation management for major supplier quality issues. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Sourcing, Engineering, Operations, Manufacturing, and Project Management teams. Provide technical and quality guidance to suppliers throughout the product lifecycle. Support global supplier development and localization initiatives. Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree or above in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Quality Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Experience Minimum 8 years of experience in Supplier Quality, Manufacturing Quality, Quality Engineering, or Supplier Development. Minimum 5 years of experience working within: Construction Machinery Heavy Equipment Mining Equipment Agricultural Machinery Commercial Vehicles Industrial Equipment Manufacturing Strong experience managing suppliers of welded structures, machining, casting, forging, hydraulic, or powertrain components. Technical Skills Strong knowledge of: APQP PPAP PFMEA SPC MSA Control Plans GD&T Solid understanding of manufacturing processes including welding, machining, casting, forging, heat treatment, painting, and assembly. Experience conducting supplier process audits and quality system audits. Knowledge of ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 requirements. Certification in VDA 6.3 Lead Auditor, Six Sigma Green Belt, or Black Belt is preferred. Soft Skills Strong project management and stakeholder management skills. Excellent communication and negotiation capabilities. Ability to influence suppliers and drive sustainable improvements. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Willingness to travel frequently to supplier locations.