Supplier Development Engineer
Louth
Vickerstock are working in partnership with a renowned multinational engineering group at the forefront of innovation in the heavy equipment and materials handling sector to recruit an experienced Supplier Development Engineer. You will be responsible for driving the technical development and performance of suppliers within a specific commodity or technology area (Hydraulics, Cylinders, Steel Structures, Electrics, Power Train).
Key responsibilities include leading supplier-related initiatives such as overseeing the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), conducting supplier assessments and sustainability audits, and managing performance reviews. The role involves close collaboration with both suppliers and internal teams to strengthen technical competencies, ensure scalability, and drive continuous improvement and value creation.
Your new role as a Supplier Development Engineer;
* Own the PPAP process, ensuring quality compliance before production release
* Lead NPD execution with suppliers from concept through production ensuring any changes meet technical and approval requirements
* Build deep technical expertise in key commodities
* Conduct technical and performance audits, capacity evaluations, and sustainability assessments.
* Monitor supplier performance, ensuring scalability and identifying improvement areas.
* Oversee the development and execution of recovery plans for suppliers facing escalated technical or operational issues.
* Work closely with suppliers to define clear action plans, provide technical support, and ensure the successful resolution of any supplier-related challenges
* Drive cost reduction, process optimization, and innovation initiatives with suppliers.
* Support continuous improvement efforts in partnership with sourcing and excellence teams.
* Perform SWOT analyses of supplier technical capabilities to guide sourcing and development strategies.
* Deliver insights to support long-term organizational goals.
* Promote lean practices and continuous improvement across the supplier bas
* Drive the execution of sustainability initiatives in collaboration with assigned suppliers
What you will need to succeed;
* Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field
* Strong technical expertise in one of the following commodities: Hydraulics, Cylinders,
Steel Structures, Electrics, or Power Train
* Proven experience in supplier development, quality management, or procurement, with a
focus on technical supplier relationships
* In-depth knowledge of the PPAP process, NPD cycles, and source change management
* Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies, such as Lean, Six Sigma, or
Kaizen
* Strong understanding of sustainability audits, capacity evaluations, and supplier
performance assessment
* Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while managing multiple projects and
priorities
Given the nature and opportunity of this role we expect a high level of interest. We would recommend submitting a cv and registering interest at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.
For further information and full job spec please contact Darren McVicker in strict confidence.
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