Supplier Development Manager (SDM)

About the role

Orbitworks is looking for a Supplier Development Manager in Abu Dhabi to build local suppliers' capability to manufacture flight hardware. The role combines manufacturing engineering, supplier quality and hands-on process development, initially focusing on machined components, wire harness assemblies and structural honeycomb panel rework or modifications. It starts as an individual contributor working closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Procurement, Contracts and D2M, with potential to build a broader supplier development function.

Key responsibilities

• Assess supplier manufacturing readiness through on-site process audits, capability reviews and risk assessments.
• Improve suppliers' travelers, work instructions, inspection plans and process controls, including torque control, crimp validation and bonding where applicable.
• Validate machining capability, including CNC programming discipline, tooling, GD&T interpretation, surface finish, material traceability and first article inspection.
• Strengthen wire harness production through crimp and pull-test validation, routing and shielding controls, workmanship standards and manufacturing records.
• Oversee honeycomb panel rework and modifications, ensuring bonding validation, environmental controls, configuration integrity and alignment with nondestructive inspection requirements.
• Implement AS9100-aligned practices, AS9102 first article inspection, APQP and PPAP where applicable.
• Lead containment, root cause analysis and corrective action for supplier quality escapes.
• Develop supplier development roadmaps, qualification criteria and performance dashboards covering quality, delivery, FAI results, escapes and process capability.
• Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality and Supply Chain to resolve technical issues and align supplier readiness with flight requirements.

Required profile

• Flight-hardware manufacturing experience with a clear understanding of aerospace process control, documentation and traceability requirements.
• Proven supplier development experience with measurable improvements in capability, quality or manufacturing readiness.
• Experience leading root cause analysis, containment and corrective action using methods such as 8D or RCCA.
• Hands-on shop-floor expertise, the ability to work independently and strong communication skills.

Required skills

• Deep machining knowledge: CNC processes, GD&T, materials, tooling, surface finish and inspection.
• Wire harness manufacturing: crimp validation, pull testing, routing, shielding and workmanship controls.
• Working knowledge of AS9100, AS9102 and manufacturing process validation.
• Nice to have: honeycomb or composite structures, bonding, NDI and controlled rework; IPC/WHMA-A-620 or NADCAP exposure; APQP, PPAP, Lean or Six Sigma Black Belt; supplier development function, ERP/MRP or international supplier experience.