Raviraj Kathare

As a Quality Engineer in the automotive industry, I focus on ensuring robust supplier quality and seamless integration of parts into production. My role covers both new supplier development and series production problem-solving, with a strong commitment to maintaining high standards of reliability, regulations, safety, and customer satisfaction.

Product cost optimization Engineer (VAVE). Working on Idea generation for cost reduction, finding opportunities for betterment of part/ product, participating in cost reduction activities, working closely with design, styling, marketing, finance, quality, etc. teams for cost reduction of components without hampering its performance. Also, Creating and tracking activities for on time implementation of VAVE & Cost reduction process, checking technical feasibility & validation of positive business-case for cost optimisation/reduction projects.

Worked closely with cross-functional teams to improve quality processes and align production schedules with overall business strategy. Incoming part quality engineer, to attend immediate line complaints to ensure Zero downtime. Resolution of line complaints for parts from local supplier. Experience in Primary analysis of line complaints. Communicate complaints to supplier for line problems. Follow up for actions & tracking of corrected parts with CKD & VW Logistics. Blocked material claims. Early warning tracking from Supplier & Logistics. (i.e. Blocking of containers & parts, arrange sorting or rework). Arranging third party for rework / sorting of affected parts. Quarantine Stores Management. Ensure on timely parts clearance from BLA, BLA, PCBU Quarantine Stores. Periodic review of Quarantine parts with Logistics / Claims team. Preparation of problem sheets for quarantined parts. Decision making & monitoring of third party activities of CKD parts & tracking of Effectiveness. Participate in Rejection Room meeting for CKD parts related issues & rejection decisions. Ensure on time CKD parts clearance from Central Rejection Room. Specialized in Seat & Trim Parts. Managed and developed supplier relationships for seat, trim parts, and wiring harnesses, ensuring required quality standards and consistent delivery performance. Conducted regular supplier audits and assessments to ensure compliance with industry standards and company-specific quality requirements. Implemented and monitored quality control processes, including inspections and testing for seat assemblies, trim components, and wiring harnesses, ensuring they meet specifications. Led root cause analysis for non-conformance issues and collaborated with suppliers to implement corrective and preventive actions. Supported the development and training of suppliers, ensuring they had the necessary tools and knowledge to meet quality standards.

Conducted quality audits and supported resource planning for the Paint Surface Audit process, improving resource efficiency and maintaining audit quality. Responsible for audit of BIW cars to ensure overall build quality of cars body which includes. Contributed to workforce planning by analyzing audit data and assisting in quality improvement projects.