Quality & Supplier Development Manager

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Quality \& Supplier Development Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining an advanced quality and supplier development system that ensures reliable product quality and continuous improvement across internal operations and the supply base. This role includes Incoming Inspection, FAI processes, QA laboratory functions, Process Control (internal and external), and Supplier Quality Audits. The position also focuses on developing new and existing suppliers through technical assessments, process audits, and corrective action management. Acting as a technical liaison between internal teams and suppliers, the manager ensures alignment with Storm Industries’ quality standards, drives process capability improvements, and supports warranty and product issue resolution.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Incoming Inspection

• Manage and continuously improve incoming inspection procedures and standards.
• Define sampling plans, inspection frequencies, and acceptance criteria.
• Oversee inspection records, calibration, and control of inspection equipment.
• Identify and address recurring supplier-related nonconformances.

First Article Inspection (FAI)

• Maintain and improve FAI procedures to validate new or modified parts and supplier processes.
• Review supplier-submitted FAIs for completeness, dimensional accuracy, and compliance with drawings/specifications.
• Coordinate with Engineering and Procurement to ensure product readiness before production approval.

Quality Assurance Laboratory

• Oversee all QA Lab activities, including material and dimensional testing, calibration, and data reporting.
• Validate testing methods along with vendors to ensure compliance with internal and customer standards.
• Analyze and report quality trends based on laboratory data and supplier performance.

Process Control – Internal and External

• Establish and maintain process control methodologies (SPC, Cp/Cpk, PFMEA, Control Plans) across supplier operations.
• Lead process validation and capability studies along with suppliers for new and existing production processes.
• Support suppliers in implementing robust process controls and mistake-proofing techniques.

Supplier Development – New \& Current Suppliers

• Conduct supplier audits assessing quality systems, process capability, and risk level prior to approval.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and Storm Industries’ supplier quality requirements.
• Lead ongoing supplier audits focusing on process capability, performance metrics, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain supplier scorecards and communicate results through quarterly performance reviews.
• Drive corrective action follow-up and monitor effectiveness of supplier improvements.

Continuous Improvement

• Lead cross-functional projects to improve quality, reduce waste, and optimize processes using Lean and Six Sigma tools.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives across both internal and supplier networks.
• Identify cost-of-quality opportunities and execute reduction strategies.
• Lead the company into ISO 9001-2015 re-certification

Product Issues and Warranty Claims

• Investigate internal and field product issues derived from warranty claims.
• Facilitate root cause analysis (8D, 5 Why, Ishikawa) and implement permanent corrective and preventive actions along with suppliers.
• Collaborate with suppliers and customers to ensure effective and timely issue resolution.

Technical Reporting

• Prepare technical quality reports, supplier audit summaries, and trend analyses for management review.
• Provide detailed quality performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs).

Communication – Internal and External

• Serve as the primary liaison for quality matters between internal departments and suppliers.
• Maintain clear, consistent communication regarding specifications, quality alerts, and performance expectations.
• Represent the Quality function in customer and supplier meetings as required.

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead and develop the Quality Assurance and Supplier Development teams. Mentor team members on root cause analysis, audit techniques, and data-based decision-making. Promote a culture of quality awareness and accountability across all departments.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education \& Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quality Management, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in Quality and/or Supplier Development within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience in supplier audits, process capability, and quality systems (ISO 9001, IATF 16949 preferred).

Technical Competencies

• Proficient in SPC, FMEA, MSA, PPAP, and APQP methodologies.
• Experienced with FAI and inspection system development.
• Skilled in problem-solving tools (8D, DMAIC, 5 Why, Fishbone).
• Strong analytical and reporting skills (Excel, Minitab, ERP systems).
• Experienced with preparing a company for the ISO 9001 audit
• Experienced with various manufacturing processes

Behavioral Competencies

• Strong leadership, organization, and communication skills.
• Ability to drive cross-functional collaboration and supplier engagement.
• Strategic thinker with hands-on problem-solving approach.
• Demonstrated commitment to Storm’s Core Values:
• Building Enduring Customer Value
• Passionately Pursue Excellence
• Work as a Team / Win as a Team
• Optimize Results

WORKING CONDITIONS

Combination of different environments like office, laboratory, and manufacturing. Travel required: approximately 15–20% (mostly supplier sites).

ISO RESPONSIBILITIES

Complies with ISO 9001 quality policy and actively contributes to continuous improvement efforts supporting company quality objectives.