Job Description

The Supply Chain Lead /Manager is responsible for managing, optimizing, and overseeing the complete end-to-end supply chain operations. This includes strategic sourcing, supplier management, procurement, logistics, distribution, and inventory control. The role ensures timely, cost-effective, and high-quality acquisition of materials and services while maintaining compliance with internal standards and global best practices.

This position plays a critical role in supplier development, cost control, product development support, and risk mitigation, especially within the automotive upstream accessories and product development sector.

Duties & Responsibilities:

1.Strategic Planning & Supply Chain Optimization

• Develop and implement robust supply chain strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Identify process bottlenecks and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor and report supply chain KPIs to improve efficiency and operational performance.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System requirements.

1. Procurement & Vendor Management

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers; maintain strong supplier relationships.
• Lead strategic sourcing, negotiations, and contract management.
• Ensure timely procurement of quality materials at optimal cost.
• Monitor supplier SLAs, performance, compliance standards, and corrective actions.
• Lead supplier development initiatives, including China-, Asia-, India and Europe-based vendors, and conduct comprehensive factory audits to ensure capability, quality, and compliance.
• Responsible for overseas supply and developing new suppliers well in time for existing business and new business.
• Expanding the supplier profile at overseas markets and bringing suppliers with faster development at right cost.
• Ensures the suppliers are capable of meeting organizations requirements of cost, quality, delivery & service.

1. Logistics & Distribution

• Manage inbound/outbound logistics, warehousing, transportation, and distribution operations.
• Optimize shipping routes, transportation methods, delivery timelines, and logistics costs.
• Ensure the timely and accurate delivery of materials and finished products.
• Responsible for demand management and sales forecasting.
• Responsible for supplier production schedules.
• Responsible for on-time customer delivery.
• Responsible for inbound & outbound freight.

1. Inventory Management & Material Audit

• Monitor inventory levels to ensure adequate stock without overstocking.
• Implement inventory control systems such as FIFO, JIT, and demand forecasting.
• Coordinate and oversee material audits, ensuring accuracy of stock records, material movement, and reconciliation.
• Conduct periodic and surprise material audits to identify discrepancies and enforce corrective actions.
• Coordinate physical inventory counts and cycle audits to maintain high stock integrity and compliance.
• Ensure proper documentation and traceability of all materials used in projects and production.

1. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Engineering, Design, SCM, Sales, Finance, Quality, R&D, and Production teams.
• Support product development teams in sourcing materials and managing supply risks.
• Address customer concerns related to delays, shortages, or product availability.
• Maintain comprehensive supply chain documentation, reports, and records.

1. Compliance, Governance & Risk Management

• Ensure all supply chain activities comply with laws, regulations, and safety standards.
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks (operational, financial, geopolitical).
• Develop and implement contingency plans for supply disruptions.
• Responsible for supplier rating to ensure access to supplier for all quality-related requirements.

1. Reporting & Budgeting

• Prepare supply chain budgets, forecasts, and cost analyses.
• Monitor actual vs. planned financial performance and initiate corrective actions.

Qualifications/Experience:

• Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Management, Mechanical Engineer, Electronics Engineering, Logistics, Masters degree preferred
• Proven experience as a Head of Supply Chain or Supply Chain Manager within OEM automotive product development / accessory divisions (e.g., Ford, Nissan, Toyota, Suzuki, Stellantis).
• Strong SCM & Procurement background, particularly in automotive components, tooling, and manufacturing processes.
• Extensive experience managing supply chain operations across China, Asia, Europe, and India, including supplier development, factory audits, supplier visits, and commercial negotiations. (Direct dealing /travelling in China, Asia, Europe, and India Suppliers )
• Strong contract negotiation capabilities and proven success in managing vendor performance.
• Deep understanding of logistics operations, inventory management, and production planning/coordination.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data, monitor KPIs, and drive process improvements.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to identify, mitigate, and manage supply chain risks in fast-paced and complex environments.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to analyze data, monitor KPIs, and drive process improvements.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills for working with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to identify and mitigate supply chain risks and manage complex logistics operations.
• Knowledge of product development engineering in the automotive sector to support product development initiatives