Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers for bumpers, injection-molded, and painted parts, ensuring high-quality production standards and on-time delivery.
Conduct comprehensive supplier evaluations, audits, and assessments, focusing on quality systems, processes, and performance metrics.
Lead and support the resolution of supplier-related quality issues and deviations, working with suppliers to implement corrective actions and preventive measures.
Collaborate with suppliers on design changes, tooling modifications, and material specifications to ensure manufacturability and optimal product quality.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives for suppliers to reduce defects, optimize processes, and improve overall quality using Six Sigma and Lean methodologies.
Identify, analyze, and resolve quality issues related to bumpers, injection molding, and painted parts through root cause analysis and corrective actions.
Lead the approval process for new parts through Part Submission Warrant (PSW) and review/approve supplier PPAP submissions.
Manage and ensure compliance with industry-specific quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949, VDA).
Develop and implement supplier development programs and provide training on FMEA, SPC, and control plans.
Serve as primary point of contact between internal teams (Engineering, R&D, Production, Purchasing) and external suppliers to address quality concerns.
Collect and analyze quality data, supplier performance metrics, and trends; develop and present reports to senior management.
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
Strong understanding of injection molding processes, painting techniques, and materials used in bumper manufacturing.
In-depth knowledge of quality management systems and standards (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949, VDA, PPAP, FMEA, SPC).
Proven experience in managing supplier relationships and driving quality improvement projects within the automotive or related industries.
Strong analytical skills and ability to solve complex quality problems using root cause analysis and statistical methods.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
Experience with automotive parts manufacturing and quality requirements for bumpers, painted components, and injection-molded plastic parts.
Familiarity with advanced technologies such as multi-shot injection molding or gas-assisted injection molding.
Experience working with global suppliers and cross-functional teams in diverse regions.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in supplier quality engineering, specifically related to bumpers, injection-molded, and painted parts.