Nilesh Mathapati
Riyadh,Saudi Arabia
Summary
Experienced Quality Leader with 13+ years in Automotive Quality Systems, currently deployed onsite at CEER Automotive-Saudi Arabia’s flagship EV OEM-where I lead Program Quality for Cockpit, Centre Console, and Door Panel assemblies. I’m proud to contribute directly to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by supporting the growth of a national mobility brand with global ambitions.
At CEER, I ensure seamless Quality assurance across the entire product lifecycle—from prototype builds to JIT delivery—by blending technical depth, cross-functional collaboration, and hands-on execution at the customer interface. I proactively resolve Quality concerns, conduct dimensional validations, and drive continuous improvements in a dynamic, innovation-driven EV ecosystem.
Previously, I have led Program Quality, QMS, IMDS, PDM, Testing & Validation, and External Resource Management, managing a team of 22 and a business portfolio exceeding $200M. My Six Sigma certification and consistent delivery on IATF 16949 compliance have earned me a reputation as a results-driven, lean-focused leader.
Why KSA & What I Bring:
- Committed to long-term contribution to KSA’s rapidly evolving automotive industry
- Proven ability to deliver high-impact results in fast-paced, multicultural environments
- Deep understanding of global standards with on-ground adaptability to local needs
- Passionate about building sustainable systems that align with Vision 2030’s goals
Key Achievements:
- Uplifted CAD deliverables quality from 70% to 95% via custom-built Quality tools
- Developed an RPA-based IMDS automation tool delivering 20% efficiency gains
- Deployed 1000+ external Quality experts during peak COVID challenges
- Maintained IATF 16949 with zero NCs since 2011
- Consistently achieved 98%+ customer satisfaction over the last 3 years
I am enthusiastic about continuing my journey in KSA, contributing to its automotive transformation, and being a part of its growth story on the global stage.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work History
Program & Customer Quality Leader
CEER Automotive
Riyadh, KSA
01.2025 - 04.2025
- Leading Program Quality support for EV prototype builds, ensuring end-to-end Quality assurance from incoming inspection to final delivery at the customer’s JIT facility.
- Managing direct customer interactions, resolving quality issues in real-time, and positioning Quality as a key value contributor.
- Applying managerial expertise to guide quality control processes, identify risks, and implement corrective actions during part development.
- Conducting and analyzing CMM inspection reports to ensure dimensional accuracy of complex plastic and metal assemblies.
- Driving root cause analysis to address quality concerns and maintain conformance to specifications.
- Maintaining full traceability and documentation compliance, including serial number tracking and inspection records in line with IATF 16949 requirements.
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams (Design, Manufacturing, Logistics) to establish effective quality gates and support production readiness.
- Demonstrating adaptability by transitioning from strategic leadership to hands-on quality support for a dynamic EV startup, directly contributing to customer success and global project exposure.
Manager
Faurecia India Pvt Ltd
Pimpri, Pune
12.2022 - 12.2024
- Successfully Led the Testing & Validation function, ensuring robust testing processes for automotive components in alignment with industry standards.
- Maintained ISO/IEC 17025 (NABL) laboratory accreditation with zero major non-conformities during audits-demonstrating strong compliance and documentation controls.
- Ensured continued certification and compliance with IATF 16949 requirements, integrating QMS practices within the lab.
- Managed Environmental Management System (EMS) and Health & Safety Compliance (HSE) within the Testing & Validation environment.
- Developed and monitored departmental KPIs, managed forecasting and budgeting to optimize resource utilization.
- Planned and executed internal audits, implemented corrective actions, and ensured process improvements across all lab operations.
- Generated new business opportunities by onboarding external clients for testing services—successfully expanding lab utilization and revenue streams.
- Collaborated with internal stakeholders (Design, R&D, Production) to align testing validation needs with project timelines and regulatory standards.
- Guided a skilled team of test engineers and technicians to perform mechanical, environmental, and durability tests with precision and accountability.
- Implemented data-driven decision-making using test results and analysis to support product validation and customer requirements.
- Streamlined reporting and traceability systems to improve transparency and reduce cycle time on test report generation.
Manager-Engineering Quality (QMS), PLM, IMDS & External Resource Management
Faurecia India Pvt Ltd
Pimpri, Pune
11.2017 - 12.2022
- Led a cross-functional team of 22 members across Engineering Quality, PDM, IMDS, and External Resource Management functions.
- Managed overall team budgeting, forecasting, annual performance reviews, and drove cost-saving and efficiency initiatives.
- Ensured successful certification for IATF 16949 and accreditation for ISO/IEC 17025.
- Implemented Quality Management System (QMS) effectively across multiple departments.
- Planned, coordinated, and conducted internal audits, and developed action plans for improvements.
- Handled external resource management independently, ensuring smooth operations.
- Managed Bex resource vendors using Agile methodologies for improved responsiveness.
- Resolved customer quality issues across NAO, Europe, and Asia-Pacific regions.
- Monitored customer feedback surveys and executed corrective action plans.
- Conducted quality training sessions for employees at different organizational levels.
- Performed random audits to verify system compliance and identify improvement areas.
- Developed and tracked company KPIs, and led Management Review Meetings (MRMs).
Sr. Quality Associate
Adient India Pvt Ltd
Pune, India
07.2016 - 11.2017
- "Adient Ltd" is the world’s largest global automotive seating and interiors supplier, supporting all major automakers across 230+ locations in 33 countries
- Reviewed and approved supplier PPAP documents for initial submissions and annual revalidations, ensuring alignment with customer requirements.
- Coordinated with global suppliers and plant SQEs to drive timely issue resolution.
- Prepared and shared the Monthly Global Quality Performance Report with the executive leadership team.
- Tracked and reported global issues through the company’s issue management system.
- Reviewed Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) documents to ensure robust product launch readiness.
- Led the implementation and compliance of Quality Management Systems (QMS) within the organization.
- Prepared and updated QMS documentation in line with global QMS revisions.
- Scheduled, conducted, and coordinated internal audits to ensure system adherence and identify gaps.
Quality Engineer
Faurecia India Pvt Ltd
Pimpri, Pune
04.2011 - 12.2015
- Ensured successful ISO/TS 16949:2009 certification through system readiness and compliance.
- Implemented and followed up on QMS processes across all functions.
- Resolved quality issues using QRCI and 8D methodologies in cross-functional teams.
- Planned and executed internal QMS audits to verify adherence across all departments.
- Conducted internal project audits to ensure compliance with ISO/TS 16949 standards.
- Tracked Program Management System (PMS) deliverables for timely execution.
- Managed document control and standardized processes for consistency and clarity.
- Supported Management Representative (MR) in organizing and facilitating Management Review Meetings (MRMs).
- Prepared, monitored, and measured organizational KPIs to drive performance improvements.
- Compiled and shared weekly/monthly quality reports with senior management.
- Executed customer satisfaction surveys to gather feedback and identify improvement areas.
Education
MBA - Manufacturing Management
BITS Pilani
Rajasthan,India 06.2020 - 06.2022
Engineer's degree - Mechanical
Pune University
Pune 06.2006 - 06.2010
High School Diploma -
Maharashtra Board
Pune06.2006
High School Diploma -
Maharashtra Board
Sangli06.2004
Skills
- Quality Management System
- IATF16949
- ISO 9001
- ISO IEC17025
- Problem solving methodology-8D,QRCI
- Trainer-Quality tools & QMS
- 5S, Kaizen, Poka Yoke
- Six Sigma
- Program Management System
- APQP,PPAP & PSW approvals
- CAPA management
- Training and mentoring staff
- Strategic planning capability
- Audit compliance expertise
- Risk assessment and mitigation
- Quality assurance expertise
Languages
English
Fluent
Hindi
Fluent
Marathi
Fluent
Kannada
Fluent
Affiliations
- Passionate Cricket and Volleyball player, known for teamwork, strategy, and competitive spirit
- Chess enthusiast with strong analytical thinking and problem-solving mindset
- Avid traveler, curious to explore diverse cultures, cities, and local traditions around the world
- Keen interest in global automotive trends and emerging mobility technologies
Certification
Six Sigma Certificate
IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 lead internal Auditor
ISO IEC 17025 NABL Lab internal lead Auditor
Trainer and mentor in Quality / QMS tools
Timeline
Program & Customer Quality Leader
CEER Automotive
01.2025 - 04.2025
Manager
Faurecia India Pvt Ltd
12.2022 - 12.2024
MBA - Manufacturing Management
BITS Pilani
06.2020 - 06.2022
Manager-Engineering Quality (QMS), PLM, IMDS & External Resource Management
Faurecia India Pvt Ltd
11.2017 - 12.2022
Sr. Quality Associate
Adient India Pvt Ltd
07.2016 - 11.2017
Quality Engineer
Faurecia India Pvt Ltd
04.2011 - 12.2015
Engineer's degree - Mechanical
Pune University
06.2006 - 06.2010
High School Diploma -
Maharashtra Board
High School Diploma -
Maharashtra Board
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