We are seeking an experienced Supply Chain Manager to lead supplier quality initiatives, strengthen supplier relationships, and drive continuous improvement across the supply chain. This role will focus on supplier performance, quality assurance, auditing, corrective actions, and the development of a high-performing and reliable supplier base.
Position Responsibilities
Supplier Quality Management
- Manage supplier quality performance through direct engagement with suppliers, issue reporting, corrective actions, and ongoing performance monitoring.
- Develop and maintain supplier quality metrics and reporting to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
- Work closely with suppliers to resolve product and process quality issues.
Supplier Development
- Support the development and expansion of a qualified and certified supplier base.
- Build strong supplier relationships and guide suppliers toward meeting quality and performance requirements.
- Provide training and support in lean methodologies, root cause analysis, and other process and product improvement practices.
Supplier Auditing & Compliance
- Conduct supplier audits and assessments to evaluate compliance with quality requirements and established standards.
- Develop corrective action recommendations and follow up on previously identified issues.
- Maintain ongoing oversight of certified suppliers through continued auditing, performance reviews, and improvement initiatives.
Corrective Action & Defect Resolution
- Notify suppliers of reported defects and nonconformities.
- Monitor and follow up on supplier corrective actions to ensure timely and effective resolution.
- Review supplier improvement plans and preventive measures to reduce the risk of recurring issues.
- Partner with internal Quality Assurance and Supply Chain teams to ensure timely closure of action requests.
Quality Support & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Support operations through product source inspections and other supplier quality activities.
- Collaborate with Quality Assurance, Operations, and Supply Chain teams to communicate supplier-related quality concerns and drive resolution.
- Promote continuous improvement across supplier processes, products, and overall supply chain performance.
Prerequisites
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in Quality Assurance, Quality Engineering, Supply Chain Quality, or a related field.
- At least 3 years of direct quality management or leadership experience.
- 3–5 years of experience conducting quality audits and supplier assessments.
- Strong knowledge of supplier quality systems, corrective action processes, and root cause analysis.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Ability to build productive relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
- Experience with lean methodologies and continuous improvement practices.
Certifications (Preferred, but not Required)
- Certified Quality Auditor (CQA).
- Certified Quality Engineer (CQE).
- ASQ or other relevant quality management certification.
- Lean or Six Sigma certification.
What the Role Offers
- Competitive salary range of $120,000–$140,000 annually.
- A leadership opportunity to strengthen supplier quality and supply chain performance.
- The ability to drive meaningful improvements in supplier development, auditing, and quality systems.
- Cross-functional collaboration with Operations, Quality Assurance, and Supply Chain teams.
- Opportunities for professional growth and continued leadership development.
Why Whippany?
Whippany offers a convenient suburban setting with access to major business centers throughout New Jersey and the greater New York metropolitan area. The area provides strong transportation connectivity, a variety of dining and recreational options, and the benefits of living and working near a diverse and active professional community.