Deputy Manager, Quality Generalist

About the role

The Deputy Manager, Quality Generalist will lead regional quality initiatives across Whirlpool's home‑appliance portfolio, ensuring products meet Whirlpool specifications and global quality standards. You will work closely with manufacturing partners and cross‑functional teams to drive quality excellence for both existing and new product introductions.

Key responsibilities

• Lead all in‑region quality issues for categories such as air conditioners, washers, microwaves, and dishwashers.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with manufacturing partners to ensure compliance with Whirlpool specifications.
• Provide guidance on quality standards for EPI (External Product Introduction) and NPI (New Product Introduction) projects.
• Deliver Purchase Item Qualification (PIQ) and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) according to the WPD process.
• Manage APQP/PIQ project schedules and quality requirements for external product development.
• Coordinate with commodity, marketing, engineering, supply chain, and project management teams on new projects.
• Negotiate and finalize quality contracts with the commodity team.
• Monitor supplier quality performance metrics (SIR, PPM, CAL) and drive improvement actions.
• Conduct supplier visits for process characterization, 8D problem solving, and continuous improvement.
• Support line continuity and resolve quality issues during NPI sample builds.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading quality initiatives in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of APQP, PIQ, PPAP, and 8D methodologies.
• Ability to manage supplier relationships and drive performance improvements.
• Excellent analytical skills to assess quality data and implement corrective actions.

Required skills

• APQP
• PIQ
• PPAP
• 8D problem‑solving
• Supplier Quality Management
• Quality performance metrics (SIR, PPM, CAL)