Head of Supplier Development & Industrialization

A leading global manufacturing organisation in Penang is seeking a Head of Supplier Development and Industrialisation to spearhead the strategic ramp-up and industrialisation of its supplier base. This pivotal role offers you the opportunity to shape the future of regional supplier capacity, drive supplier ecosystem development, and ensure supply resilience for ambitious business growth.

What you'll do:

As Head of Supplier Development and Industrialisation based in Penang, Malaysia, you will play a central role in shaping the organisation’s supply chain strategy. Your day-to-day responsibilities will involve leading a team through the entire lifecycle of supplier ramp-up—from initial sourcing through qualification to full-scale production—ensuring that every step meets demanding timelines. You will drive global initiatives to expand machining capacity by coordinating investment programmes with suppliers for CNC machine expansion and automation. Success in this role means not only meeting operational targets but also creating scalable frameworks that enable future growth without compromising quality or delivery.

• Own and lead the end-to-end supplier ramp strategy, ensuring seamless transitions from sourcing through qualification, industrialisation, and full mass production readiness with accountability for achieving time-to-volume targets.
• Drive execution of supplier qualification, industrialisation, and ramp activities globally by aligning process capability, manufacturing maturity, and cross-site readiness while proactively resolving technical, capacity, and quality constraints.
• Establish and enforce rigorous supplier readiness standards so all suppliers meet stringent requirements in capacity, technical capability, and quality systems before production release using structured assessments and governance gates.
• Lead the development and execution of machining capacity expansion strategies by translating demand forecasts into scalable machine capacity plans that support aggressive business ramp scenarios.
• Drive supplier investment programmes including CNC machine expansion, automation initiatives, and infrastructure development to ensure alignment between capital deployment and sustainable cost competitiveness.
• Own capacity risk management by proactively identifying gaps or bottlenecks in supply continuity while deploying dual sourcing strategies and contingency plans for uninterrupted operations.
• Develop robust regional machining hubs and supplier ecosystems by building integrated clusters across machining, treatment, and sub-tier capabilities to support scalable manufacturing expansion.
• Implement localisation strategies such as Best Cost Country sourcing to optimise supplier footprint for cost competitiveness, operational efficiency, and geopolitical risk mitigation.
• Lead supplier performance transformation across Quality, Delivery, Cost, and Capacity (QDC) by establishing clear targets, governance cadence, and continuous improvement programmes.
• Provide executive-level reporting on ramp readiness, capacity status, key risks; translate operational performance into clear business impact enabling timely decision-making.

What you bring:

To excel as Head of Supplier Development and Industrialisation you will bring extensive experience gained from senior roles within global organisations focused on strategic sourcing or manufacturing operations. Your academic background in engineering or supply chain disciplines provides a solid foundation for understanding complex machining processes. Experience within high precision machining or semiconductor sectors gives you valuable insight into industry-specific challenges while familiarity with lean methodologies supports continuous improvement efforts. Your commitment to operational excellence is matched by your ability to adapt quickly within matrix organisations—making you an indispensable leader who drives results through collaborative teamwork.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Supply Chain Management or related discipline is required for consideration.
• Minimum 15 years’ experience in strategic sourcing, supplier development or manufacturing operations within a global organisation is essential.
• Proven track record managing machining suppliers including CNC manufacturing processes as well as large-scale capacity planning and industrialisation projects.
• Strong understanding of machining processes combined with deep knowledge of manufacturing operations and supply chain ecosystem management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage supplier ramp-up activities including investment coordination for CNC expansion programmes within demanding timelines.
• Exceptional project management skills with proven stakeholder management capabilities enabling effective alignment across cross-functional teams.
• Analytical thinking supported by data-driven decision making alongside negotiation skills that foster positive outcomes with suppliers.
• Experience in high precision machining or semiconductor manufacturing supply chain environments is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles as well as operational excellence methodologies adds value; exposure to Asia sourcing or Best Cost Country strategies preferred.

What sets this company apart:

This organisation stands out for its unwavering commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Employees are encouraged to grow both professionally and personally through comprehensive training programmes designed to nurture talent at every stage of their career journey. The company fosters a supportive environment where contributions are acknowledged fairly regardless of background or identity; this approach not only enhances innovation but also improves customer orientation and employee satisfaction. Flexible working arrangements allow staff to balance professional responsibilities with personal commitments while generous pension contributions underscore the organisation’s dedication to long-term wellbeing. As part of a global network renowned for responsible leadership practices you’ll benefit from ongoing development opportunities that empower you to reach new heights—all within an inclusive culture where teamwork thrives.

What's next:

If you are ready to take your career to the next level by shaping the future of supplier development on a global scale—apply now!

Apply today by clicking on the link provided.

Do note that we will only be in touch if your application is shortlisted.

Agensi Pekerjaan Robert Walters Sdn Bhd
Business Registration Number : 729828-T
Licence Number : JTKSM 423C