The Director of Supplier Development for HVAC Modules is a strategic leadership role responsible for managing and enhancing supplier partnerships to ensure the timely delivery of high-quality HVAC components and systems for automotive applications. This role focuses on driving supplier performance improvements, cost reductions, innovation adoption, and compliance with technical and regulatory requirements. The director collaborates closely with engineering, quality, procurement, and manufacturing teams to align supplier capabilities with product development and production goals.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and implement supplier development strategies for HVAC module suppliers, ensuring alignment with company quality, cost, and delivery objectives.
Lead cross-functional supplier performance improvement initiatives, including quality management, process optimization, and capacity enhancement.
Collaborate with suppliers to drive innovation in HVAC module design, materials, and manufacturing processes to support vehicle program requirements.
Manage supplier audits, corrective action plans, and risk mitigation activities to ensure compliance with automotive standards and regulations.
Oversee supplier onboarding, qualification, and continuous improvement processes to maintain a robust and competitive supply base.
Partner with engineering teams to communicate technical requirements and resolve supplier-related design or production issues.
Monitor supplier cost structures and negotiate pricing and contracts to optimize overall program profitability.
Track supplier key performance indicators (KPIs) and prepare regular reports for senior management and cross-functional stakeholders.
Mentor and develop supplier development team members, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Represent supplier development in program meetings, executive reviews, and strategic sourcing discussions.
Key Focus Areas:
Strategic supplier development for automotive HVAC modules
Supplier performance management and continuous improvement
Cross-functional collaboration with engineering, quality, and procurement
Innovation adoption and manufacturing process optimization
Compliance with automotive quality and regulatory standards
Cost management and supplier negotiation
Risk mitigation and supplier qualification
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or related field required
Master’s degree or MBA preferred
Experience:
12+ years of experience in supplier development, quality, or procurement within automotive or HVAC sectors
5+ years in leadership roles managing supplier relationships and development programs
Proven track record driving supplier performance, cost reduction, and innovation adoption
Technical Skills:
Strong understanding of HVAC module design, manufacturing processes, and quality standards
Experience with supplier audits, quality systems (ISO/TS), and corrective action methodologies
Familiarity with automotive supplier management systems and tools
Knowledge of cost modeling, negotiation strategies, and contract management
Soft Skills:
Executive leadership and stakeholder management
Excellent communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills
Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
Ability to lead and develop high-performing teams