Senior Manager – Engineering & OEM Quality Programs

Department: EngineeringLocation: Dubai UAEIndustry: Automotive / OEM Accessories / Automotive ProductsLevel: Senior LeadershipJob DescriptionRole SummaryWe are seeking an experienced Senior Manager Engineering & OEM Quality Programs to lead the complete end-to-end lifecycle of automotive product development from concept creation through engineering validation manufacturing readiness and market deployment.This role requires strong technical expertise across mechanical electrical and electromechanical systems combined with proven leadership capabilities to manage multidisciplinary engineering teams in a fast-paced automotive environment.The position operates within an OEM-after-OEM business model where products are developed as distributor-bundled value additions aligned with original vehicle OEM specifications. The role ensures seamless mechanical and electrical integration zero impact on vehicle warranties and full compliance with OEM accessory approval processes.The Head of Engineering will interact directly or indirectly with global vehicle OEMs (Toyota Nissan etc.) regional distributors suppliers and internal teams to ensure products meet quality cost and performance targets.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & Department ManagementDefine and execute the strategic direction of the Engineering Department aligned with the companys OEM-after-OEM product development model.Develop and implement engineering processes procedures and workflows ensuring efficiency compliance and technical excellence.Manage engineering budgets and ensure programs are delivered on time and within cost targets.Represent Engineering in interactions with senior leadership OEMs distributors suppliers and international partners.Build mentor and lead high-performing engineering teams across mechanical electrical validation and design disciplines.Promote a culture of technical excellence accountability and customer-centric execution.End-to-End Product Development (AZ)Lead the complete engineering lifecycle including concept design simulation prototyping DV/PV testing validation manufacturing readiness and product launch.Ensure products meet quality reliability safety and OEM alignment standards.Remove technical or execution bottlenecks impacting program timelines.Ensure engineering documentation including drawings BOMs ECNs specifications and validation reports meets internal and regulatory requirements.Maintain compliance with ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System requirements.OEM Interface & Accessory Approval GovernanceAct as the primary engineering interface with vehicle OEMs and distributor partners.Lead engineering activities aligned with OEM accessory approval processes including design reviews validation alignment and technical documentation.Ensure products meet OEM requirements related to mechanical integration electrical compatibility and vehicle safety.Safeguard OEM brand integrity by ensuring value-added products integrate seamlessly without compromising vehicle reliability or warranty conditions.Manage technical escalations involving OEMs distributors suppliers and internal teams.Cross-Functional & Global CollaborationWork closely with Sales Design Supply Chain Quality Manufacturing and Executive Leadershipto achieve business objectives.Maintain relationships with global suppliers OEM-aligned manufacturers and international partners.Engage suppliers for prototyping tooling manufacturing readiness PPAP activities and technical problem resolution.Support diversification of the manufacturing footprint beyond China through technical supplier evaluations and capability assessments.Technical Oversight & InnovationDrive innovation through new technologies product improvements and engineering optimization initiatives.Oversee design across mechanical electrical electronic firmware and electromechanical systems.Ensure compliant electrical integration including power-only architectures and vehicle network interactions (CAN/LIN)where applicable.Review and approve CAD/CAE simulations PCB designs product architecture decisions and engineering calculations.Define and execute DV/PV validation plans EMI/EMC requirements and reliability standards aligned with OEM expectations.Engineering Program Execution & Risk ManagementPlan and oversee engineering programs ensuring delivery on schedule within budget and meeting required quality standards.Identify and mitigate technical and program risks throughout the product lifecycle.Lead technical design reviews validation gates and engineering quality control processes.Coordinate closely with Supplier Quality and Quality teams through dotted-line governance supporting audits PPAP activities corrective actions and continuous improvement.Travel RequirementsApproximately 50% travel depending on project needs OEM engagement supplier visits and on-site technical inspections.QualificationsEducationBachelors or Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering Automotive Engineering Mecha