Senior Director of Supplier Quality

The Senior Director of Supplier Quality at Axon is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive Supplier Quality Management strategy. This includes evaluating and selecting suppliers, monitoring their performance, driving improvements, and ensuring adherence to specified requirements. The role also requires overseeing a global team and managing supplier quality control processes to eliminate defects and enhance product quality.

To qualify for the Senior Director of Supplier Quality position at Axon, candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Electrical Engineering, along with CMQ/OE or CQE certification. Additionally, 10-15 years of experience in Supplier Quality or Quality functions on complex electromechanical systems are essential, as well as strong people management skills to lead a diverse team.

Axon evaluates suppliers through a rigorous assessment process that includes analyzing quality performance and systems capability. The Senior Director of Supplier Quality will influence sourcing decisions based on these evaluations and engage in continuous performance management, ensuring that suppliers meet the high standards required for Axon's product lifecycle.

The work environment for the Senior Director of Supplier Quality at Axon is fast-paced and collaborative. Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, this role involves significant interaction with cross-functional teams, including Manufacturing, Engineering, and Product Management, fostering an atmosphere that emphasizes continuous improvement and effective communication.

Applicants for the Senior Director of Supplier Quality position at Axon should emphasize their experience in managing supplier quality processes and leading teams. Additionally, showcasing a strong understanding of defect avoidance methodologies and excellent communication skills will be beneficial, as the role requires collaboration and influencing decisions across various teams.

When answering this question, detail a specific instance where you crafted a Supplier Quality Management strategy, emphasizing your approach to evaluating suppliers and implementing improvements. Highlight any measurable outcomes that resulted from your strategy.

Explain your process for addressing non-conformances, focusing on root cause analysis and corrective action implementation. Emphasize the importance of communication with suppliers and your role in facilitating improvements.

Discuss the specific tools and methodologies you are familiar with, such as DFMEA, PFMEA, and MSA processes. Provide examples of how you have used these tools to enhance product quality in previous roles.

Highlight your strategies for fostering collaboration, such as regular meetings, shared goals, and open communication. Provide a specific example of a successful project where cross-functional teamwork played a vital role.

Share details about a particular initiative where you implemented improvements with a supplier, noting any challenges faced and how you overcame them. Focus on the outcomes and how they contributed to overall quality enhancement.

Discuss your method for identifying and evaluating risks in supplier manufacturing processes. Mention tools you use, such as FMEA, and how you implement preventive measures.

Share your experiences managing both domestic and international suppliers, particularly in contexts like Mexico and Asia. Highlight specific challenges and how you navigated cultural differences or logistical hurdles.

Explain your approach to staying informed about industry trends, such as attending webinars, participating in professional organizations, or following thought leaders. Mention how these trends influence your quality management practices.

Discuss the key performance indicators (KPIs) you track to assess supplier quality, such as defect rates, delivery performance, and compliance with specifications. Provide examples of how you have used these metrics to drive improvement.

Express your enthusiasm for Axon's mission to Protect Life and your alignment with the company's values. Share how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for this role and how you envision contributing to Axon's strategic goals.