Job Summary • The Supplier Development & Performance Manager is responsible for leading end-to-end supplier performance improvement across quality, delivery, capacity, scalability, and sustainability. • The role drives operational excellence through Lean manufacturing, structured problem-solving, and advanced supplier development strategies while supporting new product launches, supplier readiness, and continuous improvement initiatives aligned with business objectives and customer expectations.
Job Responsibilities • Lead supplier performance management across quality, delivery, capacity, scalability, and sustainability including KPI tracking and reviews. • Develop and execute supplier quality and delivery improvement plans to reduce SPPM and ensure on-time delivery. • Perform supplier risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies. • Drive continuous improvement and supplier training using Six Sigma and Lean methods, including Kaizen initiatives (e.g., VSM, TPM, takt optimization, changeover reduction, standard work, etc). • Lead structured problem solving (8D and root cause analysis) and ensure sustainable corrective actions. • Manage supplier readiness for new product launches, including APQP, PPAP, and process validation. • Validate supplier capacity, scalability, and technical capability. • Conduct supplier audits and capability assessments across quality, processes, and capacity. • Manage supplier-related programs management for NPI, ramp-ups, and recovery initiatives. • Collaborate cross-functionally with procurement, engineering, operations, and quality. • Establish governance, define KPIs, and drive supplier performance standards.
Requirements of the Position • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or Supply Chain. • 10+ years of experience in supplier development, supplier quality, plant quality, manufacturing, or supply chain. • Deep expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Program & Project Management, Six Sigma, APQP, and PPAP processes. • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, capacity analysis, quality systems. • Proven experience in supplier performance improvement and recovery initiatives. • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills. • Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities. • Proven experience with new product integration, outsourcing, and greenfield operations preferred. • High level of resilience, accountability, and professionalism • Ability to work effectively in matrix and cross-cultural environments • Proven ability to coach and develop supplier capabilities. • Ability to travel 50%+ (Domestic and Overseas) and engage with supplier operations.
• The person must have a minimum of 10 years experience planning, monitoring, and optimizing capacity (people, systems, infrastructure, or production capability) to align with current and future demand. • They must have also started on a production floor and worked their way up through the ranks. Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Manufacturing Engineering.
The 3-most critical success areas for this role are:
1. Operational Excellence (Lean / Six Sigma) – Lean Execution (extensive hands-on experience) 2. Performance Ownership & Results 3. Supplier Development & Program Leadership
Below are 3 high impact screening questions to success in this role.
1. “Walk me through a specific example where you owned supplier performance (quality, delivery, capacity). What KPIs did you use, what actions did you take, and what measurable results did you achieve (e.g., SPPM (Supplier Part Per Million) reduction, OTD improvement)?”
2. “Describe a situation where you led a supplier through a major problem or transformation using Lean or Six Sigma. What tools did you apply (e.g., VSM (Value Stream Mapping), Kaizen, 8D/RCCA (Root Cause & Corrective Action), and how did you ensure the solution was sustained?”
3. “Tell me about a time you had to prepare a high-risk supplier for a new product launch or recovery situation. How did you assess risk, validate capacity, and ensure readiness?”
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