Quality & Supplier Development Manager

Job Overview:

Wacker Neuson is seeking an experienced Quality and Supplier Development Manager to join our team. This pivotal role is responsible for developing and implementing robust quality management systems to ensure the highest quality standards across our product portfolio. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish and maintain key metrics related to the quality of products manufactured on-site, as well as the quality of goods acquired from our external supply base/partners.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities

Quality Management

• Develop and implement quality management systems compliant with ISO 9001:2015.
• Oversee and improve overall measurement and calibration system, including SPC monitoring of shop floor processes.
• Lead problem-solving and continuous improvement efforts using lean problem-solving techniques.
• Analyze and monitor quality data to enhance product and process quality, improve takt time, and reduce scrap and rework.

Supplier Quality and Development

• Manage the supplier evaluation and selection process, assessing capabilities and compliance with quality standards.
• Conduct on-site qualification audits, regular performance reviews, and foster continuous improvement initiatives with suppliers.
• Manage the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) for incoming parts, handle non-conforming parts, and manage deviations.
• Participate in Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and validation of assembly lines and component parts.

Managerial Functions

• Create and implement development plans for staff.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide clear, honest feedback.
• Assist with hiring, developing, and training of team members in quality and inspection tools.
• Demonstrate responsibility for budget and effective utilization of resources.

Communication and Conflict Resolution

• Develop strong working relationships with production management and floor personnel to resolve quality issues.
• Lead the Supplier Qualification team to communicate and escalate under-performing suppliers.
• Work cooperatively with various departments to resolve conflicts and ensure overall business impact is considered.
• Communicate non-conformities to suppliers and negotiate action plans to maintain relationships.

Required Skills – Qualifications

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related field required; MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of Operational Quality experience, with at least 5 years in a decision-making role.
• Strong leadership or supervisory experience required.
• Certification in CMQ/OE or Lean Six Sigma (Black Belt preferred).
• Proficient in problem-solving tools like Measurement, GD\&T, Capability Analysis/SPC, and Gage R\&R.
• Working knowledge of metrology equipment, including CMM, FARO arm, and scanning software.
• Excellent verbal, written, and public speaking skills.
• Proficient computer skills, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; SAP and NX CAD experience preferred.
• Experience with a Union Shop preferred.