Supplier Industrialization - Lead

Job Purpose

To ensure suppliers are industrialized and production-ready as per company manufacturing standards and program timelines. This role will serve as the technical interface between the supplier and internal functions (R&D, Quality, Procurement, Operations) to ensure robust production processes, PPAP submissions, and long-term supplier capability.

Key Responsibilities

Supplier Industrialization -

• Drive supplier readiness for mass production through APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning).
• Conduct Process Readiness Reviews (PRRs) and Production Line Validation at suppliers.
• Ensure suppliers meet PPAP Level 3 or 4 documentation requirements, including control plans, PFMEAs, MSA, capability studies, and run-at-rate validation.
• Work closely with Procurement and R&D for DFM (Design for Manufacturability) reviews and early supplier engagement.
• Audit and evaluate suppliers for manufacturing capability, capacity, and process maturity.

Manufacturing Engineering

• Collaborate in production line setup, equipment commissioning, and process validation at supplier sites.
• Support problem-solving at supplier end using 8D, root cause analysis, and corrective action planning.
• Benchmark best practices and support lean manufacturing implementation at suppliers.
• Lead or support change management processes (ECNs, process changes, etc.)

PPAP & Documentation

• Guide suppliers in complete PPAP preparation and submission, and validate:
• Process Flow Diagrams
• PFMEA
• Control Plans
• Dimensional Reports
• Material & Performance Test Results
• MSA & SPC Studies
• Review and approve supplier PPAPs in coordination with internal quality teams.

Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical / Industrial / Production Engineering or equivalent.
• 14 - 16 years' experience in Supplier Development / Manufacturing Engineering / Industrialization.
• Strong understanding of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC.
• Hands-on experience in supplier audits, line validation, and manufacturing process improvement.
• Exposure to Aluminum Die casting, Cast iron casting, machining, sheet metal, injection moulding or electronics manufacturing is a plus.
• Proficient in problem-solving tools: 8D, Ishikawa, 5 Why, etc.
• Excellent communication and project management skills.

Desirable Certifications

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
• CQE or Certified Supplier Quality Professional (preferred)
• IATF 16949 awareness or auditor training