Rajesh Zunzurde
PROGRAM MANAGER – AUTOMOTIVE (NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT & LAUNCH)
Pune
Summary
Program Management professional with 16+ years of experience driving end-to-end automotive program execution, specializing in new product launches, APQP, supplier readiness, and cross-functional leadership. Proven track record in delivering zero-defect launches, managing global OEM programs, and leading multi-functional teams in fast-paced manufacturing environments. Experienced in handling programs for Skoda-VW, Mahindra & Mahindra, MG Motors, Renault Nissan, Cummins,Hundai, JCB, and Royal Enfield.
Overview
1
1
Language
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Manager – Program Management/NPD Lead
FORVIA (Faurecia Emission Control Technologies Pvt. Ltd.)
10.2023 - Current
- Role Overview
- Leading program quality Management and new product development for multiple automotive projects, ensuring on-time delivery, zero-defect launch, and supplier readiness.
- Key Responsibilities
- Owned end-to-end program execution from feasibility to SOP and post-launch stabilization
- Led cross-functional teams (engineering, manufacturing, supplier, quality) for program delivery
- Conducted weekly program reviews with senior management, highlighting risks and mitigation plans
- Managed APQP execution, ensuring all phase deliverables and timelines were met
- Prepared and approved PFMEA, control plans, and validation strategies
- Directed supplier selection, audits, and PPAP approvals, ensuring readiness before launch
- Led customer interactions, including PTR, PSW approvals, and fitment trials
- Implemented safe launch frameworks and GP12 controls at supplier and plant levels
- Drove risk identification and mitigation strategies, reducing escalation during launch phase
- Key Programs Managed
- Skoda-VW (Localization C-MAR projects)
- Mahindra W502 (Thar Roxx – Cold End)
- M&M Stage V Off-Highway
- MG Motors (Hot End programs)
- Renault Nissan & Royal Enfield (Chennai support programs)
- JCB programs
- Achievements:-
- Delivered zero PPM performance during launch phase for key customer programs
- Awarded Safe Launch Appreciation by Skoda-VW for excellent program execution
- Improved supplier readiness and reduced launch issues significantly
- Strengthened cross-functional coordination, accelerating decision-making and issue closure
Senior Quality Engineer – Program Launch & Plant Quality
TENNECO CLEAN AIR INDIA PVT LTD
05.2019 - 09.2023
- Key Contributions
- Managed program launches for multiple OEMs including Tata Motors, M&M, Kia, Volvo, and MG
- Led APQP, PPAP, and validation activities for complex exhaust systems
- Coordinated supplier readiness and issue resolution during launches
- Handled customer complaints and ensured resolution through 8D methodology
- Improved plant quality KPIs and reduced internal rejection rates
- Major Projects
- Tata Motors: Nexon, Altroz, Punch, Xenon, Winger
- M&M: Bolero, Scorpio, XUV 500, Supro,D72
- Force Motors, SML, KOEL, Volvo Eicher
- Achievements
- Received Best Kaizen Award (TATA)
- Recognized for Safe Launch & Supplier Improvement during BS-VI transition
- Past Experience: -
Senior Quality Executive – New Projects & Customer Quality
YASHRAJ GROUP – ALLOY INDUSTRIES PVT. LTD.
05.2017 - 04.2019
Quality Engineer – Supplier Quality & Plant Quality
UNIQUE SYSTEMS PVT. LTD.
08.2010 - 04.2017
Education
Bachelor - Mechanical Engineering
- First Class with Distinction
- GPA: 71.15%
Skills
End-to-End Program Management (RFQ to SOP)
New Product Development (NPD)
APQP / PPAP / PSW Execution
Cross-Functional Team Leadership (CFT)
Program Planning & Milestone Tracking
Risk Management (PFMEA / R-PFMEA)
Supplier Program Management & Audits
Customer Interface & Stakeholder Management
Safe Launch & GP12 Implementation
Root Cause Analysis (8D)
Accomplishments
- Safe Launch Excellence – Skoda VW (Zero PPM)
- Best Supplier Award – TATA TOYO Radiator
- Best Kaizen Award – Tenneco Clean Air
- Zero Defect Award – KOEL
PERSONAL DETAILS
Marital Status: Married
Timeline
Assistant Manager – Program Management/NPD Lead - FORVIA (Faurecia Emission Control Technologies Pvt. Ltd.)
10.2023 - Current
Senior Quality Engineer – Program Launch & Plant Quality - TENNECO CLEAN AIR INDIA PVT LTD
05.2019 - 09.2023
Senior Quality Executive – New Projects & Customer Quality - YASHRAJ GROUP – ALLOY INDUSTRIES PVT. LTD.
05.2017 - 04.2019
Quality Engineer – Supplier Quality & Plant Quality - UNIQUE SYSTEMS PVT. LTD.
08.2010 - 04.2017
Kolhapur University - Bachelor, Mechanical Engineering