Supplier Quality Engineer

We have an opportunity for a Supplier Quality Engineer where you will lead and manage all aspects of supplier quality assurance and supplier development, ensuring that suppliers consistently meet ITM Power's quality, reliability, and sustainability requirements. The role is responsible for driving continuous improvement across the supply chain through effective supplier qualification, auditing, performance management, problem solving, and quality improvement initiatives.,

Supplier Quality Management

• Develop, implement, and maintain supplier quality management programmes to ensure compliance with ITM Power's quality, reliability, and sustainability standards.
• Manage all aspects of supplier quality assurance, including supplier approval, qualification, auditing, performance monitoring, and supplier quality concerns.
• Support supplier quality requirements throughout the New Product Introduction (NPI) process.
• Build strong supplier relationships and drive supplier development activities to improve performance, quality, and reliability.

• Conduct supplier audits to assess compliance with quality standards, processes, and contractual requirements.
• Lead Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) activities for new and existing suppliers.
• Conduct Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR), and supplier process capability studies.
• Verify supplier manufacturing readiness and ensure components and materials meet specification requirements before production release.

• Lead supplier quality investigations arising from internal non-conformities, customer complaints, and supplier performance concerns.
• Drive the Supplier 8D problem-solving process, including containment, root cause analysis, corrective actions, and effectiveness verification.
• Manage and maintain the Supplier 8D Investigation Tracking Log, ensuring actions are completed and closed in a timely manner.
• Initiate and coordinate investigations with relevant technical authorities where deviations from specifications are identified.

• Monitor supplier quality performance through KPI tracking, Vendor Rating Systems, and quality data analysis.
• Lead monthly supplier performance reviews and drive targeted improvement initiatives.
• Identify trends, risks, and recurring issues to prioritise supplier improvement activities.
• Implement continuous improvement programmes to enhance supplier capability, product quality, and process reliability.

• Work closely with Engineering, Purchasing, Operations, and other key stakeholders to resolve supplier quality issues and prevent recurrence.
• Facilitate cross-functional root cause investigations and corrective action implementation.
• Ensure effective communication of supplier quality performance, risks, and improvement plans across the business.

• Train, coach, and support suppliers in the use of quality tools, methodologies, and best practices.
• Improve supplier understanding of quality requirements, problem-solving techniques, and continuous improvement methods.
• Promote a proactive quality culture throughout the supply chain.

Travel Travel regularly to supplier sites to conduct audits, investigations, performance reviews, and supplier development activities.

• HNC or degree qualified in an Engineering, Technology or Science based subject
• Certified Lean/ Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
• Proven supplier quality experience of at least 5 years in a manufacturing and/ or technical environment (e.g. Automotive)
• Proven Lead Auditor/ Auditor experience and understanding of management systems standards (e.g. ISO
  9001/ 14001/ 45001).
• Ability to manage and lead Improvement Plans with suppliers to conclusion
• Strong knowledge of structured problem-solving techniques (e.g. Six Sigma/ Lean Toolbox) and experienced in improvement methodologies
• Experienced in working to technical drawings and specifications and using metrology (including 3D measurements)
• Solid experience in supplier development, with mechanical and/ or electrical systems ideally in a manufacturing/ engineering environment

• Excellent communication, analytical and IT skills (e.g. Microsoft 365 applications, Sharepoint)
• Positive attitude with a 'can do' mindset when faced with a challenge
• Able to challenge, motivate and enthuse fellow colleagues across other departments in the…