Job Purpose
To lead and manage supplier development, strategic sourcing, cost optimization, and localization initiatives for automotive & engineering components, ensuring quality, cost competitiveness, timely delivery, and alignment with new product development and production requirements.
Occasional travel within the UK, EU, India & across Globe for supplier / client visits, presentations & trade shows.
Key Job Duties & Responsibilities
Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management
* Define and execute sourcing strategies for automotive components (Sheet metal, ABS / GRP - plastic, Glass, electronics, powertrain, chassis, interiors, etc.).
* Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers (local and global).
* Lead supplier negotiations for pricing, tooling, contracts, and long‑term agreements.
* Drive cost reduction initiatives through VA/VE, localization, and alternate sourcing.
* Manage supplier performance (QCDDM – Quality, Cost, Delivery, Development, Management).
Supplier Development & Localization
* Lead supplier development programs to improve quality, capacity, and technical capability.
* Support localization of imported parts to reduce cost and dependency.
* Conduct supplier audits (process, quality systems, capacity, compliance).
* Work closely with suppliers on APQP, PPAP, and SOP readiness.
* Resourcing across geographies to bring in Synergy / Cost reduction / Quality improvement for value addition.
New Product Development (NPD) Support
* Collaborate with R&D, Engineering, and Manufacturing during new model development.
* Ensure early supplier involvement for design feasibility and cost optimization.
* Finalize suppliers for new parts within project timelines.
* Track tooling development and trial approvals.
Quality & Compliance
* Ensure supplier compliance with automotive quality standards (IATF 16949, ISO 9001, ISO 14001).
* Drive zero-defect mindset and continuous improvement.
* Handle supplier-related quality issues and corrective actions.
Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Coordination
* Lead and mentor sourcing and development teams.
* Coordinate with Production, Quality, Finance, Logistics, and R&D teams.
* Develop KPIs and performance dashboards for sourcing activities.
Required Skills
Technical & Professional Skills
* Strong knowledge of automotive components and manufacturing processes
* Expertise in strategic sourcing and supplier development
* Costing knowledge (should-costing, BOM analysis, tooling cost evaluation)
* Technical feasibility study and its sign-off with supplier partner & customer.
* Part cost settlement based on ZBC, target Cost and competitive commercials
* Fixture, Tooling & Gauges Management – Commercial, technical, tooling ownership and tooling agreement.
* Understanding of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, MSA
* Contract negotiation and vendor management skills
* Know-how of India based suppliers Manufacturing process and technology
Leadership & Behavioural Skills
* Strong leadership and decision‑making ability
* Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills
* Analytical and problem‑solving mindset
* Ability to work in fast‑paced, project‑driven environments
* Effective communication and presentation skills
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team
* Proven experience working in India within the automotive manufacturing industry or specifically with Indian manufacturers or suppliers is desirable
* Familiarity with sustainability and ethical sourcing frameworks.
Experience Required
* 20–30 years of experience in automotive sourcing, procurement, or supplier development
* Minimum 15+ years in a leadership role handling strategic sourcing or supplier development
* Experience working with Tier-1 / Tier-2 automotive suppliers
* Exposure to OEM environments preferred
* Experience in localization and cost‑reduction projects is essential
Educational Qualifications
* Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Mechanical / Automobile / Production / Industrial) – Mandatory
* Post Graduation Study – Degree / Diploma, Master’s degree (MBA – Supply Chain / Operations / Procurement/ Finance/ Material Science) Or Equivalent experience – Preferred
* Certifications in Supply Chain, Six Sigma, or Quality Systems Or Equivalent experience will be an Added advantage
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
* Cost reduction and savings achieved
* Supplier quality performance (PPM, rejection rate)
* On‑time supplier delivery performance
* Localization and new supplier development success
* NPD sourcing milestone adherence
* Timely deliveries and Development Lead time optimization
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