Supplier Development Engineer

 

Position Overview

Key Responsibilities

• Supplier Audits: Plan, manage, and conduct both scheduled and ad-hoc supplier audits in line with the Supplier Audit Plan and business needs. Ensure timely completion, address non-compliance issues, and facilitate re-audits when necessary.
• Compliance Assurance: Ensure all assigned regional suppliers comply with the Optimas Supplier Manual and ethical standards.
• Supplier Approval & Onboarding: Add and maintain assigned suppliers on the Approved Supplier List, ensuring proper onboarding, including Feasibility, APQP, NPI, PPAP, Compliance, Delivery & Packaging requirements.
• Supplier Assessments: Oversee the submission of supplier self-assessments and audits, ensuring adherence to industry standards such as CQI-9, 11, 12.
• New Product Introduction (NPI): Support the Strategic Sourcing, Commercial & Bid, and New Item Introduction teams with supplier APQP processes, ensuring timely project delivery.
• PPAP Support: Assist the Optimas PPAP GCOE when supplier PPAP submissions require additional resolution.
• Supplier Development & Cost Enhancement: Work with Strategic Sourcing on supplier development initiatives and EBITDA improvement strategies.
• Supplier Improvement Initiatives: Drive supplier performance improvement projects, ensuring alignment with business objectives and maintaining customer focus.
• Problem-Solving & Quality Assurance: Support supplier problem-solving activities, including assisting Optimas Quality Engineering teams with resolving quality concerns.
• COPQ Management: Lead Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ) activities and collaborate with suppliers to implement corrective actions.
• Training & Development: Conduct supplier training programmes on APQP, PPAP, and Concern Management (8D).
• Performance Reporting: Provide regular regional activity reports, summarising performance metrics and progress against objectives.
• Process Improvement: Support the Supplier Development Manager in continuously improving existing processes and developing new supplier management systems.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Represent the Supplier Development function in internal and supplier management reviews and audits.
• Compliance & Documentation: Ensure adherence to all relevant policies and procedures, maintaining comprehensive and accessible records.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Audit Adherence: On-time completion and closure of supplier audits.
• Supplier Status Improvement: Achieving agreed supplier ratings (e.g., "A" status).
• COPQ Reduction: Lowering PPM (Parts Per Million) and incidents for assigned suppliers.
• EBITDA Growth: Enhancing supplier profitability in line with agreements.
• Non-Conformance Resolution: Timely and effective resolution of NCRs (Non-Conformance Reports).
• Cost Recovery: Maximising cost recovery from supplier NCRs.
• Corrective Action Validation: Ensuring validated 8D corrective actions from suppliers.
• Supplier Engagement: Time spent working directly with suppliers.
• APQP Contributions: Supporting new supplier and project activities.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Vision
• Strong Collaboration Skills (Internal & External)
• Results-Oriented Approach
• Ability to Adapt to Change
• Entrepreneurial Mindset
• Customer-Centric Focus
• Ability to Work Both Independently and in a Team

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Education: Degree in Metallurgy or Engineering
• Experience: Proven background in a Quality Role
• Certifications:
  • Lead Auditor Qualification (IATF 16949 or VDA 6.3)
  • Six Sigma Certification (Green Belt minimum)
• Technical Knowledge:
  • Strong understanding of Quality Management Systems
  • Proficiency in APQP, FMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC, PPAP, and 8D problem-solving techniques
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing tools
  • Knowledge of fasteners and manufacturing processes
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications
  • Experience with measurement and test equipment.Other Requirements:

    • Ability to travel frequently within the region (by car, train, or plane)
    • Willingness to travel internationally as required
    • Valid Full Driving Licence
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word)
    • Strong communication skills (email, phone, and in-person)
    • Ability to manage multiple tasks while maintaining attention to detail

Why Join Us?