Supplier Quality & Procurement Engineer

Job Title

Job Description

What are we looking for

We are seeking a motivated and experienced SQE as well as Gemba Improvement Specialist to join our team. SQE professionals play a crucial role in ensuring the quality of components, materials, and products sourced from external suppliers. The Gemba Improvement Specialist will be responsible for facilitating continuous improvement initiatives by working directly with the value chain & operational level where value is created, identifying opportunities for improvement, and implementing solutions to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

What will you do

• Conduct regular Gemba walks to observe operations, identify inefficiencies, and uncover improvement opportunities.

• Engage with frontline suppliers, employees, supervisors, and managers to understand their perspectives, challenges, and suggestions for improvement.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement standardized work procedures, visual management systems, and performance metrics.

• Train and coach employees at all levels on Gemba principles, Lean methodologies, and problem-solving techniques.

• Measure and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor progress, evaluate the effectiveness of improvement initiatives, and identify areas for further optimization.

• Document and communicate best practices, lessons learned, and success stories to share knowledge and foster a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.

• Collaborate with procurement and engineering teams to identify and qualify suppliers that meet quality standards and requirements.

• Define quality requirements, inspection criteria, and acceptance criteria for incoming materials and products.

• Conduct on-site audits and assessments of supplier facilities to ensure compliance with quality standards, specifications, and regulatory requirements.

• Identify areas for improvement and work with suppliers to address deficiencies and implement corrective actions.

• Establish incoming inspection procedures and protocols to verify the quality and conformance of materials and components.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and quality assurance to address quality-related issues and drive quality improvement initiatives.

• Participate in design reviews, supplier meetings, and project teams to ensure quality requirements are met throughout the product lifecycle.

• Implement Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies to identify opportunities for process improvement and waste reduction.

• Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory requirements, industry standards, and customer specifications.

What would you have

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field.

• Minimum of 8-12 years of experience in managing vendors, Supplier Quality, with extensive experience of APQP & PPAP.

• Strong understanding of Lean principles, Kaizen methodologies, and Gemba philosophy.

• Proven ability to identify opportunities for improvement, analyze complex problems, and develop practical solutions.

• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence individuals at all levels of the organization. Results-oriented mindset with a focus on driving measurable improvements in quality, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.

• Certification in Lean Six Sigma or related methodologies is a plus. Willingness to travel and work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

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About Philips
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If you’re interested in this role and have many, but not all, of the experiences needed, we encourage you to apply. You may still be the right candidate for this or other opportunities at Philips. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion here.