Localization Lead - PLC

Company Overview

NATDC is a leading manufacturer of special-purpose machines, delivering innovative and high-quality automation solutions to clients across various industries. Our commitment to excellence drives us to optimize our supply chain and reduce dependency on foreign components by localizing critical parts to Indian or non-Chinese manufacturers. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Localization Head to lead this strategic initiative.

Job Title: Localization Head

Location: Cochin

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Summary

The Localization Head will spearhead the localization of critical components such as PLCs, HMIs, Motors, Drives, Pneumatic Cylinders, Relays, and other automation components, transitioning from Chinese to Indian or non-Chinese suppliers. This role involves close collaboration with engineering, supply chain management (SCM), and costing teams to ensure seamless integration, cost efficiency, and compliance with quality standards for special-purpose machine assembly projects. The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise, supply chain knowledge, and leadership skills to drive this strategic initiative.

Key Responsibilities

• Localization Strategy Development

  : Design and implement a comprehensive localization strategy to identify and transition critical components (e.g., PLC, HMI, Motors, Drives, Pneumatic Cylinders, Relays) to Indian or non-Chinese manufacturers.

• Collaboration with Engineering Teams

  : Work closely with engineering teams to evaluate technical specifications, compatibility, and performance requirements for localized components to ensure they meet project standards.

• Supply Chain Coordination

  : Partner with the SCM team to identify, evaluate, and onboard Indian or non-Chinese suppliers, ensuring reliability, quality, and timely delivery of components.

• Cost Optimization

  : Collaborate with the costing team to analyze cost implications of localization, ensuring cost-effectiveness while maintaining quality and performance standards.

• Supplier Evaluation and Management

  : Conduct thorough assessments of potential suppliers, including quality audits, certifications, and production capabilities, to ensure alignment with project requirements.

• Risk Management

  : Identify and mitigate risks associated with transitioning to new suppliers, including supply chain disruptions, quality issues, or delays.

• Project Management

  : Oversee localization projects, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met for special-purpose machine assembly projects.

• Stakeholder Communication

  : Act as the primary point of contact between engineering, SCM, costing teams, and external suppliers, facilitating clear communication and alignment.

• Market Research

  : Stay updated on industry trends, local manufacturing capabilities, and emerging technologies to identify new opportunities for localization.

• Compliance and Documentation

  : Ensure all localized components comply with relevant industry standards, certifications, and regulatory requirements, maintaining accurate documentation for audits and traceability.

Qualifications

• Education

  : Bachelors degree in Electrical & Electronics Engineering,. A Master’s degree or MBA is a plus.

• Experience

  :
• Minimum of 5 to 8 years of experience in leading a team of engineers, supply chain management, localization, or procurement in the automation, manufacturing, or engineering industry.
• Proven track record in localizing industrial components such as PLCs, HMIs, Motors, Drives, Pneumatic Cylinders, or Relays.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams, including engineering, SCM, and costing.

• Technical Skills

  :
• Strong understanding of automation components (PLC, HMI, Motors, Drives, Pneumatic Cylinders, Relays, etc.) and their technical specifications.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes, quality control standards, and industry certifications (e.g., ISO, CE).
• Knowledge of supply chain management and procurement processes.

• Soft Skills

  :
• Excellent leadership and team management skills to drive cross-functional collaboration.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management abilities.
• Analytical mindset with a focus on cost optimization and problem-solving.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with internal teams and external suppliers.

• Preferred Skills

  :
• Experience in the assembly of special-purpose machines or similar automation projects.
• Familiarity with the Indian manufacturing ecosystem and supplier networks.
• Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Jira) and ERP systems.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Thinking
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Supplier Relationship Management
• Cost Analysis and Optimization
• Technical Expertise in Automation Components
• Risk Assessment and Mitigation