Supplier Performance

Our client is looking for a Supplier Performance & Development Specialist to function as their key regional liaison in India, spearheading vendor partnerships and development initiatives while maintaining consistency with international procurement frameworks established by their European operations.

Operating within a well-established global organization, our client delivers specialized hydraulic systems, cooling solutions, and mining equipment to major OEM clients and distributors across international markets.

This is a mission-critical position within the International Procurement division where you will oversee the identification, cultivation, and oversight of Indian vendors who frequently evolve into designated worldwide partners spanning 40+ global markets. You will serve as the primary connection point between international standards and regional vendor performance during a significant organizational evolution period.

Core Responsibilities:

• Drive supplier development programs centered on Quality, Logistics, Technology, Cost, and Sustainability (QLTC+S) excellence
• Execute thorough on-site vendor audits and operational capability evaluations
• Oversee vendor performance metrics and implement improvement measures for compliance gaps
• Deliver strategic market insights to headquarters regarding vendor landscape, challenges, and growth potential
• Serve as regional point of contact for quality escalations and maintain compliance with industry certifications (ISO, IATF, etc.)
• Facilitate product launch initiatives by confirming vendor preparedness and capabilities
• Partner with international Engineering, R&D, and Operations departments
• Manage vendor identification, assessment, and approval processes throughout India using technical, quality, and operational benchmarks

Requirements

Essential Requirements:

• Technical competency to evaluate manufacturing processes and quality frameworks
• Comprehensive understanding of India's manufacturing ecosystem and vendor network
• Professional fluency in English (verbal & written) plus regional languages (Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, etc.)
• Academic background in Supply Chain Management, Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, Production), or equivalent discipline
• Demonstrated success in managing vendor audits and approval workflows (PPAP, APQP, quality management systems)
• Minimum 10 years of experience in vendor development, procurement execution, or manufacturing/vendor quality functions
• Strong executive presence, professional maturity, and capability to represent organization with credibility
• Tenacious, precision-focused mindset with excellent communication and negotiation capabilities
• Previous experience at multinational organization with vendor development accountabilities

Preferred Requirements:

• Educational credentials considered for diploma holders with sufficient experience and demonstrated vendor ecosystem engagement
• Quality credentials (Six Sigma, ASQ, ISO Lead Auditor)
• Background in automotive, electronics, or industrial manufacturing industries
• Track record working with international sourcing/procurement organizations

Benefits

Benefits Package:

• Future career trajectory: Potential advancement to regional vendor performance or development executive position
• Permanent employment offering strategic professional advancement possibilities
• Direct reporting relationship to European-based International Purchasing Director
• Attractive compensation package: €20,000 gross per annum (approximately ₹1,900,000)
• Engagement in significant organizational transformation within an established international enterprise
• Platform to shape global supply chain operations across 40+ international markets

Work Structure:

• Complete office-based role required (100% on-site - remote work not available)
• Regular travel to vendor facilities throughout India

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, 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.

Constitutional Commitment: Keller Executive Search and its clients uphold the principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution, particularly Articles 14, 15, and 16, ensuring equality before law and equal opportunity in matters of public employment for all citizens.

Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals, regardless of background, are valued and respected in accordance with India's rich cultural diversity.

Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities in accordance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and pregnant employees under the Maternity Benefit Act, 2017. We engage in good faith discussions to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.

Compensation Information: For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post or will be shared during the interview process. Compensation is determined based on skills, experience, role requirements, and market standards. We comply with applicable minimum wage laws and Equal Remuneration Act, 1976, ensuring equal pay for equal work regardless of gender.

Compliance with Indian Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable Central and State laws governing employment, including but not limited to:

• The Constitution of India
• Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946
• Equal Remuneration Act, 1976
• Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016
• Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013
• Maternity Benefit Act, 2017
• Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970
• Applicable State Labor Laws

Workplace Harassment: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment, including sexual harassment as defined under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, and harassment based on caste, religion, gender, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

Labor Law Compliance: Keller Executive Search and/or our clients maintain compliance with:

• Employee Provident Fund (EPF) requirements
• Employee State Insurance (ESI) obligations
• Professional Tax regulations
• Gratuity Act provisions
• Applicable labor registration and licensing requirements

State-Specific Compliance:

• All States: We comply with respective State labor laws, shop and establishment acts, and minimum wage notifications.
• Karnataka/Maharashtra: We adhere to state-specific employment regulations for our Bengaluru and Pune operations.
• Multi-State Operations: We ensure compliance with labor laws in all states where our clients operate.

Privacy and Data Protection: We handle personal information in accordance with applicable Indian data protection laws and regulations, including the Information Technology Act, 2000, and related rules.

Caste and Social Justice: In compliance with Indian constitutional principles and applicable laws, we do not discriminate based on caste, tribe, or social background, and support affirmative action where legally mandated.

Documentation Requirements: Employment verification will be conducted in accordance with Indian documentation requirements while respecting privacy rights and anti-discrimination principles.

Local Cultural Sensitivity: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients respect India's diverse cultural, linguistic, and religious practices and accommodate reasonable requests for religious observances and cultural practices where operationally feasible.

Grievance Mechanism: We maintain appropriate grievance redressal mechanisms in compliance with Indian labor laws and encourage reporting of any violations of this policy.

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients operating in India. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer, location, and applicable state regulations. All employment will be subject to applicable Indian labor laws and statutory compliances.