Customer Quality Senior Manager

ECARX is a global mobility-tech company partnering with OEMs to reshape the automotive landscape as the industry transitions to an all-electric future. As OEMs develop new vehicle platforms from the ground up, ECARX is developing a full-stack solution – central computer, System-on-a-chip (SoCs), and software to continuously improve the in-car user experience. The company’s products have been integrated into more than 5 million cars worldwide and continue to shape the interaction between people and vehicles, advancing the technology at the heart of smart mobility.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Customer Quality Manager/Director to join our dynamic team. Based in Germany, this role will focus on delivering exceptional quality to European OEM partners, including Volkswagen, Porsche, Mercedes, and Renault. Starting as an individual contributor, this position will evolve into a leadership role, building and managing a high-performing quality team as the company scales.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned quality professional with 7-15 years of experience in the automotive industry and a deep understanding of software development processes, quality standards, and frameworks. This individual will thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment and possess excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Key Responsibilities

1. Customer Quality Management

• Serve as the primary interface for quality-related matters with European OEM customers.

• Proactively manage customer expectations to ensure alignment with project deliverables and timelines.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with customer quality teams and stakeholders.

2. Quality Assurance

• Ensure adherence to automotive quality standards such as AITF 16949, ISO 26262 (Functional Safety), and ASPICE.

• Manage critical quality metrics, including defect rates, customer complaints, and warranty returns.

• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to resolve quality issues.

3. Project Oversight

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, manufacturing, software development) to ensure project milestones are achieved with high-quality outputs.

• Lead or participate in program reviews and audits with customers.

• Provide quality input during software development processes, ensuring alignment with customer and regulatory requirements.

4. Team Leadership & Development

• Build and lead a customer quality team as the company grows, developing capabilities in line with business needs.

• Mentor and train team members on quality standards, processes, and customer management practices.

5. Startup Agility

• Navigate the challenges of a startup environment, adapting quickly and managing multiple hats.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance internal processes and align with industry best practices.

Qualifications & Experience

Experience

• 7-15 years in automotive quality management, preferably with exposure to software development projects for European OEMs.

• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment, balancing customer management and team building.

Domain Expertise

• Strong knowledge of automotive software standards, including ASPICE, ISO 26262, and functional safety regulations.

Leadership Potential

• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams, with a track record of coaching or scaling quality teams.

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Automotive Systems, or a related field.

Skills

• Familiarity with European OEM quality expectations and processes.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities, with a data-driven approach to quality management.