Apply to Supplier Quality Director

Position Overview
A leading global manufacturer is seeking a highly experienced Supplier Quality Assurance Director to lead and strengthen supplier quality strategies across a complex, multi-site manufacturing operation. This executive-level position will be responsible for developing world-class supplier quality systems, driving continuous improvement initiatives, reducing supplier-related risks, and ensuring consistent product quality across the supply chain. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in supplier quality management within a high-volume manufacturing environment, along with strong leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and the ability to partner cross-functionally with operations, engineering, procurement, and executive leadership teams.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and execute the overall supplier quality strategy aligned with operational and business objectives.
Lead supplier quality performance management initiatives across domestic and international suppliers.
Establish and maintain supplier qualification, development, audit, and performance monitoring systems.
Drive supplier corrective action processes and ensure timely resolution of quality issues.
Partner closely with Procurement, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Operations teams to improve supplier performance, delivery, and product reliability.
Lead supplier risk assessments and mitigation strategies to ensure continuity of supply and quality standards.
Develop KPI dashboards and metrics related to supplier quality, PPM reduction, warranty performance, cost of poor quality, and supplier scorecards.
Oversee APQP, PPAP, FMEA, control plans, and other quality planning activities as applicable.
Ensure compliance with customer, regulatory, industry, and internal quality standards.
Lead and mentor a team of Supplier Quality Engineers and quality professionals across multiple manufacturing locations.
Support new product launches and supplier industrialization activities.
Conduct executive-level reviews with key suppliers and internal stakeholders.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and structured problem-solving methodologies.
Collaborate with global sourcing teams to support supplier selection and strategic sourcing initiatives.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, or related technical field required; Master’s degree preferred.
Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in Supplier Quality, Quality Assurance, or Manufacturing Quality leadership roles.
Minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership or director-level capacity.
Strong background within a complex manufacturing environment such as industrial equipment, automotive, HVAC, appliances, heavy manufacturing, or related industries.
Proven experience managing supplier quality systems across multiple manufacturing facilities.
Extensive knowledge of quality systems, supplier development, and manufacturing processes.
Experience with:
- APQP
- PPAP
- FMEA
- SPC
- Root Cause Analysis
- Lean Manufacturing
- Six Sigma methodologies
Strong understanding of ISO quality standards and supplier auditing processes.
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence executive stakeholders.
Excellent communication, leadership, and presentation skills.
Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.

Preferred Qualifications

ASQ certifications (CQE, CQM, CSSBB) strongly preferred.
Experience supporting global supply chains and international suppliers.
Background in metal fabrication, electronics, mechanical assemblies, or engineered products manufacturing environments.
Experience leading quality transformation and supplier development initiatives.

Leadership Competencies

Strategic and analytical mindset
Strong decision-making capabilities
Results-oriented leadership style
High sense of urgency and accountability
Excellent relationship-building and negotiation skills
Ability to drive change in fast-paced manufacturing environments.