Senior Supplier Development Lead (SDL)
WFA Digital Insight
As the global supply chain continues to evolve, demand for skilled supplier development professionals is on the rise. With a growth rate of 21% in the aerospace and defense industry, experts in supplier containment and recovery are in high demand. RTX, a leader in technologically advanced solutions, is seeking a seasoned Senior Supplier Development Lead to drive business growth. Candidates should possess a deep understanding of global commodities, strategic planning, and crisis management. Before applying, consider the requirement for U.S. citizenship and the need for frequent travel to supplier sites.
Job Description
About the Role
The Senior Supplier Development Lead is a critical role within RTX's Global Supplier Development organization. As a forward-deployed professional, you will be responsible for driving supplier recovery, capability improvement, and sustainable performance. This hands-on, cross-functional position supports operational containment, supplier assessments, and execution of structured improvement plans across global commodities.The ideal candidate will be both detail-oriented and strategic, capable of managing crisis situations and long-term development actions that align with business unit goals and enterprise-wide initiatives. While this role is remote-based, candidates residing in Central or Eastern Standard Time Zones will be given priority consideration.
RTX is committed to creating a work environment that is inclusive and diverse, where all employees can thrive. As a Senior Supplier Development Lead, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
What You Will Do
- Lead internal and supplier containment actions in collaboration with Operations and Quality
- Facilitate supplier kick-off meetings to align expectations and establish rapid response actions
- Conduct Root Cause and Corrective Action (RRCA) investigations to resolve critical quality or delivery issues
- Coordinate with stakeholders to develop and implement improvement plans and ensure clear communication through plan review checkpoints
- Monitor leading and lagging Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to assess progress
- Evaluate whether exit criteria have been achieved for containment efforts
- Escalate persistent issues to crisis mode or tiger teams when warranted
- Partner with Commodity Teams and SBUs to ensure closed-loop feedback and transition to sustainable operations
- Lead supplier site identification and prioritize development efforts aligned with risk, impact, and strategic commodity needs
- Conduct supplier assessments using OCRA (Operational Capability & Risk Assessment) tool
What We Are Looking For
- Minimum 5 years of experience in supplier development or a related field
- Strong knowledge of global commodities and supply chain management
- Experience with crisis management and containment actions
- Ability to travel to supplier sites (minimum 50% of time)
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
- U.S. citizenship is required
Nice to Have
- Experience with Adjust and Excel
- Knowledge of manufacturing process technology tools and standardization (e.g., FMEA and Control Plans)
- Familiarity with the Castings and/or Forging products and manufacturing
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunity to work with a leading aerospace and defense company
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Professional development opportunities
- Remote work arrangement with flexible scheduling
- Access to cutting-edge technology and tools
- Comprehensive health insurance and wellness programs
- Generous paid time off and holiday schedule
How to Stand Out
- To stand out as a candidate, be prepared to provide specific examples of your experience with supplier development and containment actions.
- Make sure to highlight your knowledge of global commodities and supply chain management in your application.
- Familiarize yourself with RTX's products and services, as well as the company's values and mission.
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with crisis management and how you have handled high-pressure situations in the past.
- Consider creating a portfolio that showcases your skills and experience in supplier development and supply chain management.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions during the interview process, such as what a typical day looks like in the role or what opportunities there are for professional development.
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