Keller Executive Search is recruiting for a Strategic Supplier Development & Performance Manager. You will serve as the strategic on-ground representative in India, leading local supplier development and management while ensuring alignment with global purchasing standards set by the European headquarters. The role is responsible for qualifying, developing, and managing Indian suppliers who become designated global partners across 40+ countries, acting as the key interface between global expectations and local supplier execution.
What You'll Do
- Lead supplier scouting, evaluation, and qualification across India based on technical, quality, and operational criteria.
- Conduct comprehensive on-site supplier audits and capability assessments.
- Drive supplier development initiatives focused on Quality, Logistics, Technology, Cost, and Sustainability (QLTC+S).
- Monitor supplier performance scorecards and drive corrective actions for non-conformities.
- Act as local escalation point for quality issues and ensure adherence to certifications (ISO, IATF, etc.).
- Support new product introductions by ensuring supplier readiness.
- Provide actionable market intelligence to HQ on supplier trends, risks, and opportunities.
- Collaborate with global Engineering, R&D, and Operations teams.
What We're Looking For
- Minimum 10 years experience in supplier development, sourcing execution, or manufacturing/supplier quality roles.
- Must have worked in a multinational company with supplier development responsibilities.
- Proven track record in leading supplier audits and qualification processes (PPAP, APQP, quality management systems).
- In-depth knowledge of the Indian manufacturing landscape and supply base.
- Education in Supply Chain Management, Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Production), or a related field.
- Technical aptitude to assess production processes and quality systems.
- Fluent in English (spoken & written) and local languages (Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, etc.).
- Strong presence, maturity, and ability to represent the company with authority.
- Persistent, detail-oriented approach with strong communication and negotiation skills.
Nice to Have
- Experience in automotive, electronics, or industrial goods sectors.
- Quality certifications (Six Sigma, ASQ, ISO Lead Auditor).
- Experience collaborating with global sourcing/procurement teams.
- Diploma holders considered with adequate experience and proven supplier base collaboration.
Team & Environment
You will be part of the Global Purchasing organization, reporting directly to the European-based Global Purchasing Director.
Benefits & Compensation
- Competitive salary: €20,000 gross annually (approximately ₹1,900,000).
- Permanent position with strategic career growth opportunities.
- Opportunity to influence the global supply chain across 40+ countries.
- Be part of a major organizational transformation in a well-established global group.
- Direct reporting line to European-based Global Purchasing Director.
- Future career path: Potential evolution into regional supplier performance or development leadership role.
Work Mode
This is an onsite position located in India.
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to caste, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, nationality, place of birth, language, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected under Indian law.
