Supplier Development Specialist

Position Summary

The Supplier Development Specialist is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and developing suppliers to meet Boviet Solar's quality, cost, delivery, and sustainability requirements in support of our solar panel manufacturing operations. This role works closely with procurement, engineering, quality, and production teams to ensure a resilient and high-performing supply base. The position focuses on supplier qualification, continuous improvement, and alignment with Boviet Solar's business objectives and renewable energy industry standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Identify and qualify new suppliers to support material, equipment, and component needs for solar panel production.
• Conduct supplier assessments and audits to evaluate capabilities, quality systems, and compliance with industry standards.
• Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to define supplier technical and quality requirements.
• Develop supplier improvement plans to address performance gaps in cost, quality, delivery, or service.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives with suppliers, including lean manufacturing practices, defect reduction, and process optimization.
• Work with procurement staff to ensure supplier contracts reflect performance and compliance expectations.
• Monitor supplier performance metrics and maintain scorecards to track progress and identify trends.
• Facilitate technical and operational support to suppliers during new product launches or process changes.
• Maintain a robust supplier database and ensure accurate documentation of supplier qualifications, certifications, and performance history.
• Stay informed on market and industry developments to identify emerging supplier capabilities and risks.
• Support sustainability goals by sourcing suppliers committed to environmental responsibility and ethical practices.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders to resolve supplier-related issues and ensure alignment with production requirements.
• Complete other supplier development and procurement-related tasks as assigned by the Procurement Manager.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Quality Management, or related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in supplier development, supplier quality, or procurement within a manufacturing environment (solar, renewable energy, or electronics industry preferred).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of supplier quality systems, manufacturing processes, and industry certifications (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, etc.).
• Experience conducting supplier audits and implementing corrective action plans.
• Knowledge of solar panel manufacturing materials and supply chain dynamics preferred.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship management skills.
• Analytical skills to evaluate supplier performance and drive data-based improvements.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with global suppliers.
• Commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing practices.

Additional Information

• Occasional domestic and international travel required for supplier visits and audits.

Disclaimer

The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Employees must comply with company policies, standard operating procedures, and applicable laws. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.