Supplier Development & Performance Manager

TekWissen•Milwaukee, WI

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

TekWissen is a global workforce management provider headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan that offers strategic talent solutions to our clients worldwide. Our client produces electronics and HVAC equipment. The Company offers HVAC equipment, building automation, security, fire detection, batteries, and other related products, as well as building control systems, energy management, and integrated facility management services. Client serves customers worldwide. This role is responsible for leading end-to-end supplier performance improvement across quality, delivery, capacity, scalability, and sustainability. The role drives operational excellence through Lean manufacturing, structured problem-solving, and advanced supplier development strategies while supporting new product launches, supplier readiness, and continuous improvement initiatives aligned with business objectives and customer expectations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or Supply Chain.
10+ years of experience in supplier development, supplier quality, plant quality, manufacturing, or supply chain.
Deep expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Program & Project Management, Six Sigma, APQP, and PPAP processes.
Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, capacity analysis, quality systems.
Proven experience in supplier performance improvement and recovery initiatives.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
High level of resilience, accountability, and professionalism
Ability to work effectively in matrix and cross-cultural environments
Proven ability to coach and develop supplier capabilities.

Nice To Haves

Proven experience with new product integration, outsourcing, and greenfield operations preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead supplier performance management across quality, delivery, capacity, scalability, and sustainability including KPI tracking and reviews.
Develop and execute supplier quality and delivery improvement plans to reduce SPPM and ensure on-time delivery.
Perform supplier risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
Drive continuous improvement and supplier training using Six Sigma and Lean methods, including Kaizen initiatives (e.g., VSM, TPM, takt optimization, changeover reduction, standard work, etc).
Lead structured problem solving (8D and root cause analysis) and ensure sustainable corrective actions.
Manage supplier readiness for new product launches, including APQP, PPAP, and process validation.
Validate supplier capacity, scalability, and technical capability.
Conduct supplier audits and capability assessments across quality, processes, and capacity.
Manage supplier-related programs management for NPI, ramp-ups, and recovery initiatives.
Collaborate cross-functionally with procurement, engineering, operations, and quality.
Establish governance, define KPIs, and drive supplier performance standards.