Parts Development Specialist (Exterior Trim)

PURPOSE

The Specialist – Parts Development (Exterior Trim) is responsible for managing purchasing and supplier development activities related to production and new model parts within the automotive manufacturing environment. The role focuses on ensuring supplier performance across Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, and Development (S-QCDD) while supporting localization, new product development, and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the supply chain.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supplier & Purchasing Management - Manage purchasing activities for production and new model exterior trim parts.
• Prepare and manage RFIs/RFQs for multi-year production programs.
• Negotiate long-term supplier agreements and maintain competitive pricing.
• Lead annual cost reduction initiatives and perform comparative cost studies.
• Develop and implement commodity and supply base strategies.
• Maintain and update supplier database and purchasing records.
• Supplier Performance & Quality Improvement - Track, analyze, and improve supplier S-QCDD KPIs.
• Monitor supplier safety, quality, delivery, and development performance.
• Conduct supplier process evaluations and communicate audit findings.
• Develop corrective actions and action reports for quality defects.
• Support supplier process optimization using PDCA methodologies.
• Ensure all component design changes comply with internal 4M processes (Man, Machine, Material, Method).
• Product Development & Engineering Collaboration - Collaborate with R&D, Engineering, Quality, and suppliers during product development stages.
• Evaluate component and part designs to improve manufacturing and cost efficiency.
• Support localization initiatives by identifying local sourcing opportunities for existing and future vehicle programs.
• Participate in implementation of best practices and new technologies related to purchasing and supply chain activities.
• Stakeholder & Operational Support - Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to resolve issues and support business objectives.
• Conduct advanced problem-solving and decision-making activities.
• Ensure fair, ethical, and consistent treatment of all suppliers.
• Support compliance with Business Management System (BMS), Environmental Management System (EMS), and Safety Management System (SMS) requirements.
• Support operational requirements including travel, overtime, weekends, holidays, and on-call activities when necessary.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Strong communication skills in written and spoken English.
• Business and technical writing capabilities including reports, presentations, and professional correspondence.
• Negotiation and influencing skills.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and projects effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Understanding of supply chain, manufacturing processes, and quality systems.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with flexibility in working hours.

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Experience with SAP or equivalent ERP systems.
• Knowledge of automotive component development and manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with supplier audits, localization strategies, and cost management.
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies such as PDCA.
• Understanding of quality systems and automotive industry standards.