Job overview The Lead Supplier Quality Assurance Engineer will be responsible for assuring the quality of components and subassemblies delivered to us from its global supply chain, as well as working closely with other team members to improve suppliers' quality and delivery performance. You will provide critical quality assurance support to new product introduction in the supply chain, by monitoring and reporting out on the suppliers' APQP programmes. You will create and maintain inspection plans for incoming components, review / approve suppliers' component PPAP and PSW submissions, and ensure records are kept of these approvals. Key responsibilities Evaluate the capability of new and existing component vendors to provide confidence that our suppliers can produce defect-free components at projected volumes. Coordinates the flawless launch of new products from the supply chain. Develops under-performing suppliers through collaborative improvement activities, to reduce the risk of production shortages and line stops to sales volumes. Promptly review and approve PPAPs, maintain records, and update departmental KPIs. Organises internal/external measurements and data analysis (part and process) as necessary to validate PPAPs. Creates and maintains inspection plans for incoming parts. Requesting and expediting supplier 8D reports for nonconforming parts. Leads supplier root cause analysis as required; verifying effectiveness of actions. Acts as Supplier Development Engineer when required, by working collaboratively with Clients Systems Team and selected suppliers to deliver the expected level of Quality. Ensures that the Part and process developed use tools such as DFMEA, PFMEA, Measurement System Analysis, Value Stream Analysis, Control Plan & work instructions. Being the representative of Quality for the business within the supplier base through strong leadership, coaching and supporting engagement Driving and influencing internal and external stakeholders to achieve the company QCD objectives. Qualifications & experience Engineering degree and/or a recognised Quality Management qualification. A qualified ISO 9001 auditor, preferably lead assessor. Previous SQ experience in automotive manufacturing or in a similar industry. Experienced in NPI and developing/managing suppliers to deliver quality requirements through the product life cycle. Be able to lead, influence and support, to challenge in a positive attitude. Strong negotiating and communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively. Working knowledge of IATF 16949 and Core Tools. Experienced in quality tools and methods, including but not limited to Global 8D, Ishikawa, 5-Why, Pareto, etc. Conversant with metrology, inspection methods and equipment, as well as a working knowledge of GD&T. Able to correctly interpret 3D CAD and 2D drawings. Ability to present data accurately and effectively. Planning and prioritising activities and an ability to operate with a level of autonomy. Able to travel at short notice within the UK or worldwide to Suppliers. Full clean driving licence