Head - Supplier Quality Management

Job description

Purpose of the Role: Lead IQC and SQM to ensure defect-free incoming materials and supplier performance excellence. Establish robust quality systems, inspection processes, and supplier development programs to meet customer and business requirements. Drive continuous improvement, quality compliance, and digitalization initiatives across the supply chain. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support NPI, manufacturing, and operational goals. Develop high-performing teams while achieving zero-defect and quality excellence objectives. **Key Responsibilities** **1. Incoming Quality Control (IQC)** - Lead and manage overall Incoming Quality Inspection activities and Supplier Quality Assurance processes. - Develop and implement sampling plans (AQL) and inspection procedures for incoming materials, components, fixtures, consumables, and packaging materials. - Ensure compliance with Engineering BOM and Manufacturing BOM requirements. - Establish effective inspection methodologies to prevent defective materials from entering production. **2. Non-Conformance & Discrepancy Management** - Establish systems for issuing and managing Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs). - Quarantine and control non-conforming materials and blocked inventory. - Coordinate Return-to-Vendor (RTV), replacement, rework, and corrective actions with procurement and supply chain teams. - Monitor closure of quality issues within defined timelines. **3. Supplier Quality Management** - Develop supplier quality evaluation systems and performance metrics. - Conduct supplier assessments, audits, and performance reviews. - Drive supplier development initiatives and continuous improvement programs. - Collaborate with SCM and stakeholders to improve supplier quality and delivery performance. - Support new supplier qualification and supplier part development for NPI projects. **4. Quality Systems & Continuous Improvement** - Establish and maintain quality management procedures aligned with customer and industry requirements. - Ensure successful completion of internal and external quality audits. - Lead Kaizen initiatives and continuous improvement programs within IQC and SQM functions. - Implement inspection automation and quality data digitization initiatives. **5. Team Leadership & Development** - Lead, mentor, and develop the IQC and SQM teams. - Build competency through structured training and multi-skilling programs. - Create succession plans and support employee development initiatives. - Foster a culture of quality excellence, accountability, and collaboration. **6. Traceability & Digital Transformation** - Ensure end-to-end traceability systems from suppliers to point of use. - Partner with IT and Engineering teams to implement digital quality solutions. - Drive SAP-based Incoming Quality processes and quality data management systems. **7. Performance Monitoring & Reporting** - Conduct weekly and monthly reviews of quality performance metrics. - Maintain and present MIS reports, supplier scorecards, and quality dashboards. - Monitor KPIs such as: - Supplier PPM - LAR (Line Audit Rejection) - RTV Performance - Supplier Assessment Scores - CAPA Closure Effectiveness - Audit Compliance Scores **8. Problem Solving & Risk Management** - Lead root cause analysis and corrective/preventive action (CAPA) initiatives. - Drive Zero Repeat Defect programs. - Utilize structured problem-solving methodologies such as: - 8D - 5 Why Analysis - Fishbone Diagram - PFMEA - Control Plans - Improve quality performance through data-driven decision-making. **9. Cross-Functional Collaboration** - Work closely with SCM, Manufacturing, Engineering, NPI, Customers, and Suppliers. - Support organizational initiatives and strategic quality objectives. - Participate in new product launches and supplier qualification activities. **Preferred Experience** - Experience managing global supplier networks. - Exposure to China-based suppliers and sourcing ecosystems. - Experience in EMS, Automotive, or high-volume manufacturing environments. - Strong understanding of quality standards, supplier management systems, and audit frameworks. **Qualification:** B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical or Electronics Engineering with relevant Quality certifications **Experience:** 20+ years of experience in Quality Management within EMS and/or Automotive Manufacturing Industries