Job Summary
We are looking for a senior leader to head Auto Ancillary Development (ADD) for our Commercial Vehicle Seating & Interior Components Division. The role will focus on developing new vendors, sourcing critical components, negotiating costs, and building a strong and reliable supplier base. The ADD Head will ensure all suppliers meet Quality, Cost, and Delivery (QCD) expectations, while driving localization, import substitution, and long-term supplier partnerships to support company growth.
Key Responsibilities
Vendor Development & Supplier Base Expansion
- Identify and develop new vendors for seating and interior components such as metal structures, foam, trims, plastics, mechanisms, dashboards, and panels.
- Conduct supplier capability studies, audits, and approvals in coordination with R&D, Quality, and Project teams.
- Drive localization initiatives to reduce dependency on imports and achieve cost savings.
- Build a robust vendor database that can support current and future business requirements.
Sourcing & Cost Negotiation
Lead the complete sourcing process from RFQ to final supplier selection.Carry out detailed cost analysis, benchmarking, and should-cost studies to ensure competitive pricing.Negotiate with suppliers for the best cost, quality, and delivery terms, ensuring long-term competitiveness.Finalize and maintain supplier contracts, cost sheets, and price agreements as per company guidelines.Supplier Relationship & Performance Management
Build strong, long-term partnerships with key suppliers for sustainable growth.Regularly review supplier performance based on QCD (Quality, Cost, Delivery) and drive improvements where required.Work with suppliers to introduce new technologies, innovations, and process improvements for interiors and seating components.Reduce supplier risks through consolidation, dual sourcing, and diversification strategies.Project & Business Support
Ensure all sourcing and vendor development activities are completed on time for new product launches, engineering changes, and SOPs.Work closely with R&D and Project Management teams to ensure suppliers can meet technical and commercial requirements.Actively support APQP, sourcing gates, and program milestones to meet customer commitments.Provide commercial inputs to program cost targets and ensure achievement of cost reduction plans.Governance & Compliance
Ensure that all sourcing processes are aligned with company policies, audit standards, and ethical practices.Maintain clear and transparent documentation of vendor evaluations, negotiations, and approvals.Establish governance systems to monitor costs, supplier agreements, and overall compliance.Qualifications & Skills
Education : BE / BTech in Mechanical / Automobile (MBA in Supply Chain / Operations preferred).Experience : 20+ years in vendor development, sourcing, and procurement in automotive seating & interiors (commercial vehicle focus preferred).Strong expertise in new vendor development, supplier negotiations, and cost optimization.Knowledge of local / global sourcing practices, import management, and localization strategies.Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP preferred), cost modeling, and commercial governance.Strong leadership, people management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.Excellent negotiation, communication, and decision-making abilities.