The Supplier Quality Manager plays a critical role in the success of the Engines and Home Energy business by leading both the strategic and tactical supplier quality function across its global supply base. The position leads the supplier quality activities related to current production, new product development, cost reduction projects, and supply chain optimizations.
This is a hybrid role based in Kohler, Wisconsin or Hattiesburg, MS,requiring on‑site work 3 days per week.
Specific Responsibilities:
Provide leadership, guidance, and mentoring to the Supplier Quality Team, thus enabling their continuous technical and career development.
Ensure robust evaluation is performed to verify suppliers are qualified before selected for new business
Develop and implement actions to address poor performing suppliers.
Develop the SQ team's commodity knowledge to an expert level.
Provide cooperative relationship for supplier quality teams in the US, Italy, China, and India, to align domestic management of suppliers.
Partner SQ team with Procurement team to develop and implement commodity strategies to support business needs
Independently identify opportunities and give strategic direction to the cross-functional NPD teams based on the core goals of the business.
Manage and continually improve Supplier Development change management standards of work.
Lead the problem solving of complex issues
Leverage own strong technical knowledge in the successful launch of suppliers' new manufacturing processes.
Apply manufacturing expertise during the design process to ensure Design for Manufacturing and Design for Assembly principles are applied as related to purchased components and assemblies.
Identify and react to current and future gaps in capability, capacity, and technical ability in the supply base.
Develop, maintain and improve standardized SQ processes as they relate to Engines/HE business requirements
Create gates and find ways to integrate process for DFM/DFA, feasibility, PPAP into Home Energy NPD, SPD, VAVE and resourcing project flows
Requirements:
Bachelor of Science Degree in a technical field (Engineering preferred). Graduate Degree in a technical discipline or MBA highly desired but not required.
5+ years of relevant process/quality experience. 3+ years of direct leadership experience.
Up to 50% travel (mostly local/domestic).
Advanced knowledge of supplier quality management methods and quality system requirements.
Advanced level knowledge of metrology, inspection, and measurement techniques including GD&T.
Functional knowledge of multiple manufacturing processes (e.g. plastics molding, iron sand castings, aluminum HPDC, aluminum low pressure casing, stampings, wire harness, fuel system assembly, and hardware).
Functional knowledge of material science (e.g. cast iron, aluminum casting alloys, steels, plastic, heat treatments, powder metal).
Change agent, who excels in a team environment, is customer focused, and able to consistently measure performance and meet commitments.
Strong business aptitude, analytical skills and negotiation skills.
Ability to effectively communicate across all levels of the organization.
Proficient in advanced problem-solving techniques. Six Sigma Black belt or Shainin Master certifications desired but not required.
Global supplier audit experience and familiarity with multiple manufacturing technologies desired but not required.
Advanced knowledge of spark ignited engines including carburation, electronic fuel injection and mechanical governing. desired but not required.
Proficient knowledge of home energy products including gensets, controllers, transfer switches, and interface desired but not required
Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.