Sr Engineer/ Team lead - Vendor Development

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate, and develop new suppliers based on technical, quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
• Manage the complete vendor development process from supplier identification through qualification and regular performance monitoring.
• Coordinate with suppliers for new product development, sample submission, trials, and PPAP/APQP activities.
• Work closely with Engineering, Quality, Purchase, Production, and SCM teams for supplier-related activities.
• Conduct supplier audits and capability assessments.
• Drive supplier improvement initiatives related to Quality, Cost, Delivery, and Capacity.
• Support cost reduction, localization, VA/VE, and alternate source development initiatives.
• Resolve supplier quality and delivery issues through structured problem-solving and corrective actions.
• Monitor supplier performance through defined KPIs and drive continuous improvement.
• Ensure timely availability of materials/components for new projects and production requirements.
• Maintain supplier documentation, development status, audit reports, and performance records.
• Lead and guide junior team members in vendor development activities.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical / Production / Industrial Engineering or a related discipline.
• 1015 years of relevant experience in Vendor Development, Supplier Development, Procurement, or Sourcing.
• Experience in manufacturing/automotive/engineering components will be preferred.
• Good knowledge of supplier qualification, APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, SPC, and 8D/problem-solving tools.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes such as machining, sheet metal, forging, casting, fabrication, plastics, or similar processes.
• Strong negotiation, communication, analytical, and vendor-management skills.
• Ability to read and understand engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Willingness to travel to supplier locations as required.

Key Competencies

• Vendor / Supplier Development
• Supplier Quality & Capability Assessment
• Cost Reduction & Localization
• New Product Development
• Supplier Audit & Performance Management
• Problem Solving & Root Cause Analysis
• Cross-functional Team Management
• Negotiation & Communication