EV Vendor Development - Auto Electricals

Royal Enfield · Chennai, India

Key Skills:

The Specialist - Vendor Development will be responsible for the end-to-end process of identifying, evaluating, developing, and managing a robust vendor base for critical auto-electrical components specifically for EV two-wheeler applications. This role requires strong technical understanding of auto-electrical systems, exceptional negotiation skills, and a proactive approach to ensuring cost-effectiveness, quality, and timely delivery of components such as HV & LV cables, Portable Residual Current Devices (PRCD), electronic handlebar locks, horns, and vents.

Sourcing & Supplier Identification:

● Identify and evaluate potential domestic and international suppliers for HV & LV cables, PRCD, electronic handlebar locks, horns, vents, and other auto-electrical components for EV two-wheelers.

● Conduct market research to identify new technologies, materials, and suppliers that can enhance product performance, reduce costs, or improve supply chain efficiency.

● Develop a strong pipeline of qualified vendors based on technical capabilities, quality systems, financial stability, and ethical practices.

· Costing & Analysis:

● Conduct detailed cost analysis of components, including material costs, manufacturing processes, tooling costs, and overheads.

● Benchmark component costs against industry standards and competitor pricing to identify cost reduction opportunities.

● Prepare comprehensive cost reports and present findings to management.

· Negotiation & Contract Management:

● Lead negotiations with vendors on pricing, payment terms, delivery schedules, quality standards, and service level agreements (SLAs).

● Develop and implement negotiation strategies to achieve favorable terms and conditions while maintaining strong vendor relationships.

● Draft, review, and finalize procurement contracts and agreements to ensure compliance with legal and company policies.

· Sourcing & Supplier Identification:

● Identify and evaluate potential domestic and international suppliers for HV & LV cables, PRCD, electronic handlebar locks, horns, vents, and other auto-electrical components for EV two-wheelers.

● Conduct market research to identify new technologies, materials, and suppliers that can enhance product performance, reduce costs, or improve supply chain efficiency.

● Develop a strong pipeline of qualified vendors based on technical capabilities, quality systems, financial stability, and ethical practices.

· Costing & Analysis:

● Conduct detailed cost analysis of components, including material costs, manufacturing processes, tooling costs, and overheads.

● Benchmark component costs against industry standards and competitor pricing to identify cost reduction opportunities.

● Prepare comprehensive cost reports and present findings to management.

· Negotiation & Contract Management:

● Lead negotiations with vendors on pricing, payment terms, delivery schedules, quality standards, and service level agreements (SLAs).

● Develop and implement negotiation strategies to achieve favorable terms and conditions while maintaining strong vendor relationships.

● Draft, review, and finalize procurement contracts and agreements to ensure compliance with legal and company policies.

· Vendor Development & Relationship Management:

● Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to define technical specifications and quality requirements for components.

● Conduct technical audits and assessments of potential and existing vendors to ensure adherence to quality management systems.

● Drive continuous improvement initiatives with vendors to enhance product quality, reduce lead times, and optimize manufacturing processes.

● Monitor vendor performance through key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time delivery, quality, and cost.

● Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key suppliers.

· Component Specific Expertise:

● Develop in-depth technical knowledge of HV & LV cables (understanding of voltage ratings, current carrying capacity, insulation materials, shielding, etc.).

● Understand the functionality and safety aspects of PRCDs for EV charging applications.

● Familiarity with the design, operation, and security features of electronic handlebar locks.

● Knowledge of various types of horns and their acoustic properties.

● Understanding of venting requirements for battery packs and other EV components.

· Market Intelligence:

● Stay updated on industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes related to EV auto-electrical components.

Gather market intelligence on raw material prices, supplier capacities, and competitive landscapes.

4-8 years of experience in vendor development, strategic sourcing, or procurement, with a significant focus on auto-electrical components, preferably within the automotive or EV industry.

Technical Skills:

● Strong understanding of auto-electrical systems and components, especially for EV applications.

● Knowledge of manufacturing processes relevant to electrical components (e.g., wire harnessing, injection molding, PCB assembly).

● Familiarity with quality standards and certifications (e.g., IATF 16949, ISO 9001).

● Proficiency in using ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and procurement software.

Soft Skills:

● Excellent negotiation and communication (written and verbal) skills.

● Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

● Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships.

● Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.

● Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

● Proactive, results-oriented, and a self-starter.

Desired Attributes:

● Experience working with EV OEMs or Tier 1 suppliers.

Demonstrated ability to achieve