Bruno Grau Makowski

As the MTP NPI Team Lead for Earthmoving Supply Management, I drive machine-level sourcing strategies for Medium Tractor Products by aligning machine requirements with global product and process development teams. My role bridges collaboration across International Concurrent Product/Process Development Teams, Category Managers, and NPI product leads to ensure seamless execution and governance of New Product Introduction (NPI) deliverables. Key responsibilities include: Leading NPI projects for Earthmoving facilities in Piracicaba, Brazil and East Peoria, US, focusing on product quality, velocity, and cost optimization. Partnering with product groups to define scope, understand requirements, and drive execution across cross-functional teams. Collaborating with Category Managers to allocate resources that support strategic sourcing and supply chain goals. Managing the machine sourcing plan, collaborative parts list, and concurrent product/process plans. Monitoring and reporting NPI progress, ensuring accountability for quality and timeliness across design and sourcing teams. Supporting procurement-related capital planning and supply chain development for new products. Facilitating global discussions to communicate project status across Category, Site, and Product Group stakeholders throughout each phase.

In my role as the procurement leader overseeing the Medium Tractor and Motor Graders new product and new source introduction programs (NPI/NSI) at the Piracicaba facility (CBL), I excel in coordinating and managing Purchasing activities with a strong emphasis on analytical thinking, collaboration, and organizational skills. This encompasses tasks such as supplier selection, quoting, APQP, and PO issuance to align with Product Group business objectives. I act as a key liaison to foster collaboration and communication between teams in Brazil and globally, leveraging my collaborative skills to address challenges and drive effective resolutions. Furthermore, my adept organizational abilities ensure the efficient and structured management of procurement processes, leading to successful outcomes for program initiatives.

In charge of supplier relationship management, I lead new product price negotiations for the Heavy Fabrication and Worktools components, ensuring timely and target pricing in the New Product Introduction (NPI) process. I actively engage in deviation analysis and approval processes, collaborating with design control and suppliers to address challenges effectively. My teamwork-oriented approach is evident in supporting APQP risk A and B activities, including design reviews, team feasibility assessments, and issuing purchase orders to drive project success. I foster collaboration for next-gen machines, soliciting manufacturability feedback from the supplier base in Brazil to enhance product quality and efficiency. Moreover, I specialize in negotiation strategies to mitigate cost increases with suppliers, focusing on material and variable costs to maintain profitability. Building and nurturing supplier relationships for production parts is a key aspect of my role, ensuring smooth operations and reliable supply chain management.

Aligned Product Group and Procurement strategies to drive value through supplier collaboration and integrated procurement capabilities within an Engineered Value Chain. Leveraged sourcing matrix and global procurement expertise to work closely with business partners and suppliers in optimizing the supply network and enhancing products and services. Committed to delivering high-quality solutions with a focus on minimizing total cost of ownership.

Responsible for overseeing the approval and rejection of design deviations and change requests, providing technical leadership in operations process and product engineering. Works closely with the technical team to support Manufacturing, Quality, Purchasing, and other departments. Acts as the local engineer in charge of electrical and electronic components, lower power train, and as the primary responder for engineering issues on the shop floor.

Responsible for spearheading and implementing cost reduction initiatives for Caterpillar Brazil-built products by collaborating with other Caterpillar facilities and multifunctional teams in Caterpillar Brazil. Reports project outcomes within the Low Cost Producer governance framework at Caterpillar Brazil. This role involves identifying new cost-saving projects, visiting suppliers, supporting SPPC analysts, and participating in Rapid Improvement Workshops for products and value streams.

As a project management leader with a collaborative problem-solving approach, I drive projects centered on moderately complex subject matter and solutions, prioritizing availability and attainability. I lead improvement initiatives within the value center, showcasing strong coordination skills with the Project Sponsor and stakeholders. My leadership style focuses on efficient management of project timelines, resources, and deliverables to achieve successful results. I am committed to offering team members essential training in 6 Sigma Problem-Solving tools, nurturing a culture of continuous improvement and excellence across the organization.

Manage and oversee the operations of a frozen Sandwich factory production, including supervising the workforce and ensuring efficient production processes. Monitor the implementation of production programs, overseeing the volume, costs, and quality of output. Focus on managing and optimizing manpower efficiency while analyzing and reporting on production performance. Facilitate the utilization of facilities and equipment to maximize productivity and quality standards. Prioritize employee training and development to enhance skills and performance within the production team. Promote a people-focused approach to operations, emphasizing the well-being and professional growth of employees alongside operational efficiency.

As a Technical Staff member at the Industrial Management of Pizza, Lasagna, Sandwich, and other freezing foods in Sadia site, I focus on standard work and enhancing production efficiency. My responsibilities include conducting projects to optimize food processes and implement Lean Manufacturing principles.

Intern at Sadia's Poultry Slaughter in Concórdia (SC), specializing in applying Lean methodology to streamline processes. Activities included creating value stream maps for the poultry slaughter process, implementing the PDCA methodology to optimize processes, developing a Kanban tool, and gaining expertise in Lean Production and Six Sigma projects.