ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Lead and manage the APQP process from concept through production launch and post-launch activities.
Ensure all APQP deliverables are completed on time, including PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flow Diagrams, and Measurement System Analysis (MSA).
Coordinate and facilitate cross-functional APQP team meetings involving Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Suppliers.
Drive issue resolution, risk mitigation, and escalation during new product introductions and engineering changes.
Oversee and approve PPAP submissions to customers and ensure compliance with customer-specific requirements.
Serve as the primary interface with customers on APQP, PPAP, and launch readiness topics.
Ensure customer milestones and timelines are met without compromising quality or compliance.
Ensure robust risk identification and prevention using FMEA methodologies.
Verify effective control plans and process capability prior to launch.
Ensure lessons learned are captured and incorporated into future programs.
Work closely with Supplier Quality to align supplier APQP activities with internal timelines and requirements.
Support supplier APQP reviews, development activities, and launch readiness assessments.
Partner with manufacturing teams to ensure equipment, tooling, and processes are validated prior to production.
Establish and monitor APQP performance metrics, including launch quality, timing, and defect prevention.
Report APQP and launch status to leadership and initiate corrective actions when targets are not met.
Drive continuous improvement of APQP processes, tools, and standard practices.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
QUALIFICATIONS:
Strong knowledge of IATF 16949 / ISO 9001 standards
APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans
Lean / Six Sigma methodologies
Statistical analysis and quality data reporting
Blueprint and engineering drawing interpretation
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and quality management systems
Experience with inspection tools (CMM, calipers, micrometers, gauges)
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial) or a related field, or equivalent experience.
Extensive hands-on experience with APQP and PPAP in automotive or regulated manufacturing environments.
COMPUTER SKILLS:
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel. Experience with ERP systems and knowledge of Infor ERP (MAPICS) preferred.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:
KEY PPERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs):
On-Time APQP Milestone Completion (%)
On-Time PPAP Submission Rate (%)
Launch Readiness Approval (Gate Pass Rate)
EnOn-Time Launch Issue Closure (%)
Repeat Launch Issues Rate
Corrective Action Effectiveness Engineering Change Implementation Timeliness
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Combination of office, manufacturing floor, and supplier locations
Use of PPE required in production areas
Domestic and occasional international travel may be required
Hutchinson designs and produces customized materials and connected solutions to respond to the needs of its global customers, on land, in the air and at sea. A global leader in vibration control, fluid management and sealing system technologies, our Group stands out with a multiple market offering spanning multiple areas of expertise and delivering synergies and value-added. Hutchinson reported revenues of €5 billion in 2024 and has more than 40,000 employees in 25 countries. Our ambition is to contribute to safer, more comfortable and more responsible mobility for the future.
