Job Summary:
The NPD Quality Manager will play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and reliability of new product developments (NPD) from concept to launch. This individual will be responsible for integrating quality principles and practices into the NPD process, ensuring compliance with customer requirements and industry standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in automotive quality, a deep understanding of NPD processes, and a proven track record of driving quality improvements in new product launches.
Responsibilities:
- NPD Quality Planning:
- Develop and implement quality plans for new product development projects.
- Define quality requirements and acceptance criteria for new products.
- Ensure that quality considerations are integrated into all phases of the NPD process.
- APQP and PPAP Management:
- Lead the application of Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) methodologies.
- Coordinate the development of FMEAs, control plans, and other quality documentation.
- Ensure timely submission and approval of PPAP packages.
- Design for Quality (DFQ):
- Collaborate with design and engineering teams to ensure that quality is built into the product design.
- Conduct design reviews and provide feedback on design for manufacturability and quality.
- Implement DFMEA and PFMEA to mitigate potential quality risks.
- Validation and Testing:
- Develop and execute validation and testing plans to ensure product reliability and performance.
- Analyze test data and identify potential quality issues.
- Ensure that all testing is conducted in accordance with customer and industry standards.
- Supplier Quality Management (NPD Focus):
- Evaluate and select suppliers for new product components.
- Conduct supplier audits and assessments during the NPD phase.
- Work with suppliers to ensure the quality of supplied parts and materials.
- Problem Solving and Continuous Improvement:
- Lead root cause analysis and problem-solving efforts for quality issues during NPD.
- Implement corrective and preventive actions to prevent recurrence of defects.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the NPD process.
- Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date quality records and documentation.
- Prepare and present quality reports to project teams and management.
- Ensure compliance with IATF 16949 and customer specific requirements.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Work closely with design, engineering, manufacturing, and sales teams to ensure successful new product launches.
- Act as the primary quality interface for NPD projects.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical) required.
- Minimum 7-12 years of experience in quality management within the automotive industry, with a strong focus on NPD.
- In-depth knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, and SPC methodologies.
- Strong understanding of automotive quality standards (IATF 16949, ISO 9001).
- Experience in design for quality (DFQ) and validation testing.
- Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
- Experience working directly with OEM clients.
- Six Sigma Green or Black belt is a plus.