Head of Quality – Electric Bus

Head of Quality – Electric Bus (Electric Vehicle / e-Bus), Location - IndoreReports To - Plant DirectorJob PurposeLead and own the quality strategy, systems, and execution across the complete lifecycle of electric buses—from concept through production, assembly, integration, and after-sales service. Drive product and process quality improvements, ensure regulatory and safety compliance, and champion a quality-first culture to meet customer expectations, reduce defects, and optimize total cost of quality.Key ResponsibilitiesQuality Strategy and GovernanceDevelop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive Quality Management System (QMS) aligned with ISO 9001, IATF 16949 (where applicable), ISO 26262 (functional safety for EVs), ISO 21434 (cybersecurity for automotive), and other relevant standards.Define quality objectives, KPIs, and dashboards. Establish annual quality plan with clear milestones for design, development, production, supply chain, and service.Lead quality risk management (APQP/PPAP, FMEA, risk registers) for all programs, including new model launches and platform changes.Drive continuous improvement programs (Six Sigma, Lean, TPM) and establish a robust problem-solving culture (8D, DMAIC).Design and Development QualityCollaborate with Product, Systems, and Electrical/Mechanical Engineering to embed Quality by Design (QbD) into concept, design, and validation phases.Establish design quality gates, design reviews, and verification/validation plans focusing on reliability, safety, endurance, battery management, thermal management, propulsion, and charging interfaces.Oversee supplier quality during the development phase; ensure design data package completeness, DFMEA, DFM, and test protocols.Manufacturing and Process QualityCreate and maintain process quality standards for assembly lines (drivetrain, battery pack, composite structures, interior, electronics), robotics, and final vehicle inspection.Lead process capability studies, control plans, work instruction governance, and defect taxonomy. Implement statistical process control (SPC) where appropriate.Drive quality in new plant builds and line-side quality assurance, including SOPs, visual management, 5S, and error-proofing (Poka-yoke).Supplier and Parts QualityEstablish and manage supplier quality assurance (SQA) processes for battery cells, power electronics, motors, thermal systems, cabling, chassis, and body components.Set supplier quality expectations, conduct audits, manage supplier corrective actions (SCARs), and ensure supply chain traceability and compliance.Lead root-cause analysis for supplier defects and implement robust corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).Safety, Compliance, and ReliabilityEnsure compliance with automotive safety standards (ISO 26262), functional safety lifecycles, and homologation requirements.Lead reliability programs (RBDs, MTBF analysis, field failure data) and develop durability strategies for EV-specific stressors (battery abuse, thermal cycling, vibration).Own the quality aspects of safety-critical features and electronic control units (ECUs), interfaces, and cybersecurity considerations.Quality Analytics and Data ManagementBuild and manage a Quality Analytics platform with real-time data collection from manufacturing, testing, and field data.Use data-driven approaches to identify trends, hotspots, and risk, and prioritize improvement projects.Produce regular quality reports for executive leadership and cross-functional teams.Customer Experience and After-Sales QualityOwn post-delivery quality feedback loops, warranty analytics, and service part quality improvements.Collaborate with After-Sales, Field Service, and Customer Support to reduce warranty costs and improve first-time-right repair rates.Lead root cause investigations for field incidents and coordinate recall management if needed.People and OrganizationBuild, mentor, and lead the Quality organization (permanent and contractor staff) with a focus on capability development and succession planning.Promote a culture of quality, safety, and continuous learning. Foster cross-functional collaboration with Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Customer Support.QualificationsEducationBachelor’s degree in Electrical / Mechanical / Automotive Engineering, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.Certifications in quality management (CQE, CQM, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt) are a plus.Experience20+ years of experience in automotive/EV quality, with demonstrated leadership of quality programs across design, manufacturing, and service.Experience with electric propulsion systems, battery packs, thermal management, power electronics, and charging infrastructure is highly desirable.Proven track record in leading supplier quality for complex components and in managing multi-site quality operations.Technical SkillsDeep understanding of QMS standards (ISO 9001, IATF 16949), automotive functional safety (ISO 26262), and automotive cybersecurity (ISO 21434) considerations.Strong analytical skills: SPC, DOE, FMEA, root cause analysis (8D), CAPA, RCA.Proficiency with quality software/tools (e.g., Minitab, Jira/Confluence, SAP/APO, Tableau/Power BI) and data analytics.Familiarity with EV-specific testing (battery, BMS, EV charging standards, EMC/EMI, functional safety testing).Soft SkillsStrategic thinker with hands-on execution capability.Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management.Change management skills and ability to drive cross-functional alignment.Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and conflict resolution abilities.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Defect rate (internal and supplier) and First-Time Quality (FTQ)Supplier quality performance (SQI, SCAR closure rate, on-time corrective actions)Warranty cost per vehicle and field failure rateMTBF/DRE (design and reliability metrics)Audit pass rates and QMS complianceOn-time completion of quality gates and PPAP submissionsQuality-related cost of poor quality (COPQ) reductionNice-to-HavesExperience with large-scale bus manufacturing or commercial vehiclesKnowledge of battery safety certifications (UN 38.3, IEC 62616) and fast-charging standards (CCS, CHAdeMO)Experience with modular, scalable platforms for mass production EVsMultilingual capabilities for global operationsHow to ApplyPlease forward your resume and a cover letter if desired detailing: -Your experience leading quality for EVs or automotive programsKey quality improvements you led (with quantified results)Examples of supplier quality management and CAPA effectivenessYour leadership approach and how you build quality cultureInterested, Revert with your updated CV on-