Balaji J

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles
Senior Manager – Process Quality & Production Planning and Control
[August 2019] – Present

• Led resolution of chronic vehicle flow issues using QC tools and TQM methodology
• Coordinated with cross-functional teams across Production, Supply Chain, In-Plant Logistics, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing Engineering, and R&D for systemic problem resolution
• Implemented process optimizations and error-proofing measures to improve quality and operational efficiency
• Managed internal and external audits under IATF 16949; conducted ISO 50001, 14001, and 45001 audits as a Certified Integrated Management System Auditor
• Supervised 47+ personnel including 22 blue-collar associates and 25 drivers, ensuring standard work adherence and high performance
• Established and sustained Daily Work Management (DWM) practices at End of Line (EOL), improving process stability and output quality
• Improved Straight Pass Ratio and achieved Zero Defect Vehicle Ratio through structured problem-solving and root cause analysis
• Contributed to Value Stream Mapping (VSM) initiatives to identify and eliminate non-value-added activities
• Oversaw end-to-end production planning, major rework zone management, and resource optimization at EOL
• Drove continuous improvement through Kaizen activities, Quality Control Circles (QCC), and associate-led initiatives
• Ensured timely closure of Internal Audit Reports (IARs) and resolution of Quality Feedback Loops
• Reduced scrap cost through data-driven analysis and preventive measures