Deputy Manager, Supplier Quality & Development Job in Whirlpool Corporation

About Whirlpool Corporation
Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is a global leader in kitchen and laundry appliances, dedicated to improving life at home for families around the world. With a commitment to purposeful innovation and an iconic brand portfolio including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Consul, Brastemp, Amana, Bauknecht, JennAir, Indesit, and InSinkErator we combine cutting-edge technology with decades of expertise.
In 2023, we reported approximately $19 billion in annual sales, supported by 59,000 employees and 55 manufacturing and technology research centers globally. Learn more at WhirlpoolCorp.com.

About the Team
Our Quality Assurance team plays a critical role in ensuring the highest product standards for our customers. This team works closely with suppliers to maintain quality, improve processes, and resolve issues quickly and effectively. From new product launches to ongoing supplier development, we partner with internal teams and external suppliers to drive a culture of excellence.

About the Role
As a Supplier Quality Engineer/Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring the performance and quality of direct material suppliers across Asia and IPO supply chains. You will lead new product integration (NPI) and existing product improvements (EPI) by driving supplier development processes, solving escalated quality issues, and collaborating closely with global teams. Your work will directly impact the quality and reliability of Whirlpool products delivered to millions of homes.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with suppliers to ensure flawless new product launches.
• Lead supplier quality processes for NPI and EPI projects, including APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) and PIQ (Purchase Item Qualification).
• Drive supplier performance improvement initiatives through data analysis, root cause identification, and action planning.
• Manage and resolve escalated quality issues through structured problem-solving processes like 8D.
• Conduct supplier process audits and risk assessments to identify improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with global cross-functional teams to align supplier quality processes and ensure consistency.
• Provide training to suppliers on Whirlpool s quality systems, tools, and expectations, fostering a Zero Defect culture.
• Track, analyze, and report on supplier performance metrics such as SIR, PPM, and CAL.
• Participate in supplier qualification reviews and witness critical sample builds during new product launches.
• Champion Critical Parameters Management (CPM) to ensure focus on key product characteristics that impact performance and customer satisfaction.

What We re Looking For

Education:

• Bachelor s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field).

Experience:

• 7-10 years in Supplier Quality within Automotive, Home Appliances, or Consumer Durables industries.

Technical Skills:

• Strong understanding of quality tools like APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, MSA.
• Proficient in data analysis and statistical process control (SPC).
• Experience working directly with suppliers on quality improvement and new product launches.

Certifications (Preferred):

• Six Sigma Green/Black Belt.
• Certified Quality Management Systems (QMS) Auditor.

Soft Skills:

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to collaborate across cultures and global teams.
• Analytical mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Passion for driving quality excellence and continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

• Work for a globally recognized Fortune 500 company.
• Collaborate with talented professionals from around the world.
• Be part of an innovative environment that values bold ideas and smart solutions.
• Enjoy a diverse and inclusive workplace where your voice matters.
• Contribute directly to products that improve life at home for millions.

Ready to Make an Impact?
If you are passionate about quality, thrive in a collaborative environment, and are ready to drive supplier excellence in a globally respected organization, apply today!