Kalaiselvan M

• Sourced and developed a robust supplier base, managing a $6 million spend with suppliers while ensuring consistent quality, contractual compliance, and on-time delivery. • Evaluated and onboarded high-potential vendors based on cost, quality, reliability, service, and technical capability. • Led contract management activities, including drafting, reviewing, and negotiating supplier agreements to ensure favorable commercial terms and risk mitigation. • Applied Zero-Based Costing (ZBC) and advanced negotiation strategies to drive cost reductions and foster long-term supplier partnerships. • Conducted comprehensive supplier risk assessments and capacity evaluations to ensure alignment with technical, quality, regulatory, and production requirements—including lead times and contingency planning. • Led APQP, PPAP, and VA/VE initiatives to support new product development, continuous improvement, and cost optimization. • Collaborated cross-functionally with Engineering and R&D to define sourcing strategies and technical specifications for new components and materials. • Developed and validated testing methodologies and quality metrics to support process improvement and ensure product integrity. • Monitored supplier performance through key metrics, providing data-driven feedback and initiating improvement plans as needed. • Ensured compliance with corporate policies and industry regulations, proactively implementing controls to reduce supply chain and contractual risks. • Led First Article Inspection (FAI) and PPAP activities for new and modified parts. • Drove corrective actions and supplier improvement plans using QRQC and 8D methodologies. • Supported process improvement activities using Lean tools and basic Six Sigma principles to improve supplier quality and reduce variation.

• Strategically selected and developed a reliable supplier base for casting and forging commodities, fully aligned with global QCD (Quality, Cost, Delivery) standards. • Assessed and onboarded suppliers through comprehensive audits covering manufacturing processes, quality systems, and special process capabilities. • Led APQP and PPAP activities for new and engineering change order (ECO) parts, ensuring first-time-right quality with a strong zero-defect culture. • Executed process audits and joint inspections at supplier sites to verify compliance, ensure production readiness, and drive robust quality performance. • Improved supplier performance using structured problem-solving tools such as QRQC and FICS, along with regular performance reviews and audits. • Participated in SOCO (Sourcing Committee) meetings to evaluate and select optimal suppliers based on feasibility, quality, delivery, and cost metrics. • Led continuous improvement programs by developing GME-based measurement methodologies and fostering supplier-driven innovation.