Supplier Development Manager

AllSTEM Connections is actively recruiting on behalf of one of our valued clients—a leading organization known for innovation and excellence in the digital product space. We are excited to share this opportunity with professionals who are passionate about design systems, user experience, and collaborative product development. If the role aligns with your background and career goals, we encourage you to apply and take the next step toward joining a dynamic and forward-thinking team.

Position Title – Supplier Development Manager

Hourly Pay Rate (w2 Role) - USD 63 /hr - USD 82 /hr

Contract End Date - 02/06/2027

Hybrid position

Location - Milwaukee , WI 53209

75% travel capability

Absolute Must-Haves

✅ 10+ years Supplier Development / Supplier Quality / Manufacturing Quality

✅ Lean Manufacturing

✅ Six Sigma

✅ APQP

✅ PPAP

✅ Supplier Audits

✅ 8D / Root Cause Analysis

✅ Supplier Performance Improvement

✅ Capacity Analysis

✅ NPI (New Product Introduction)

✅ Program or Project Management

✅ Manufacturing Environment

✅ Able to Travel 75%

Supplier Development & Performance Manager

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Supplier Development & Performance Manager to drive supplier excellence across quality, delivery, capacity, scalability, and sustainability initiatives. This role will lead supplier performance improvement programs, develop strategic supplier partnerships, and ensure operational readiness for new product introductions while driving continuous improvement throughout the supply chain.

The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in supplier development, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma methodologies, APQP/PPAP processes, and supplier performance recovery initiatives within a manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead supplier performance management programs focused on quality, delivery, capacity, scalability, and sustainability metrics.
• Develop and execute supplier improvement plans to reduce defects, improve supplier quality performance (SPPM), and enhance on-time delivery.
• Conduct supplier risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies to ensure supply continuity.
• Drive Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives, including Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping (VSM), TPM, standard work implementation, takt optimization, and changeover reduction.
• Lead root cause investigations using 8D methodology and ensure effective corrective and preventive actions.
• Support new product introductions through supplier readiness assessments, APQP, PPAP, and process validation activities.
• Evaluate supplier manufacturing capacity, scalability, and technical capabilities.
• Conduct supplier quality, process, and capacity audits.
• Manage supplier-related programs supporting NPI launches, production ramp-ups, and supplier recovery efforts.
• Partner closely with Procurement, Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, and Operations teams.
• Establish supplier governance frameworks, KPI scorecards, and performance review processes.
• Mentor and develop supplier capabilities to improve long-term operational performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Business, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in Supplier Development, Supplier Quality, Manufacturing Quality, Operations, or Supply Chain Management.
• Strong expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Continuous Improvement, Program Management, APQP, and PPAP.
• Comprehensive understanding of manufacturing processes, quality systems, and capacity planning.
• Proven track record improving supplier performance and leading supplier recovery initiatives.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Excellent stakeholder management and cross-functional communication abilities.
• Experience supporting New Product Introduction (NPI), outsourcing initiatives, or greenfield operations preferred.
• Ability to influence suppliers and drive sustainable process improvement.
• Willingness to travel 50%+ domestically and internationally.