Description Position at Sumitomo Wiring Systems (U.S.A.), Inc.
OEM Account Manager, FordPosition Summary The Account Manager is responsible for leading all commercial and customer-facing activities for assigned OEM accounts, with a primary focus on Ford Motor Company. This role owns the full account lifecycle including business development, RFQs, pricing, and program execution ensuring alignment with corporate strategy, profitability targets, and customer expectations. The position serves as the primary interface between the customer and internal cross-functional teams, driving communication, execution, and long-term relationship growth.
Key Responsibilities - Serve as the primary customer contact and build strong, strategic relationships within OEM.
- Lead and manage all commercial aspects of the account, including securing new business opportunities, RFQs, pricing strategy, negotiations, and contract alignment
- Own RFQ process, ensuring timely, accurate, and competitive submissions
- Identify and develop new business opportunities aligned with corporate growth objectives
- Coordinate closely with engineering, purchasing, operations, and program management teams to support successful program execution
- Act as the bridge between customer requirements and internal functions, ensuring clear communication and alignment
- Support product launches and ensure alignment with APQP, timing, cost targets, and customer requirements
- Promote company products and capabilities to customer(s).
- Monitor and respond to engineering changes, scope modifications, and customer requests
- Participate in monthly reviews, forecasting, and reporting activities
- Drive cost improvement, profitability, and quality initiatives within the account
- Troubleshoot issues proactively and implement effective countermeasures
Core Duties - Maintain ongoing communication with customers and internal stakeholders
- Support program management and manufacturing functions to ensure seamless execution
- Coordinate activities across Tier suppliers where required
- Assist in budgeting, forecasting, and account performance tracking
- Contribute to marketing strategies to expand customer presence and share of business
Required Skills & Competencies - Strong understanding of Ford systems, processes, and supplier requirements
- Proven experience managing financial business cases, pricing, and margins
- Solid knowledge of automotive program lifecycle
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and influencing skills
- Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving abilities
- Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional, global organization
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
Education & Experience - Bachelor's Degree in Business, Engineering, or related field
- Minimum 5+ years of automotive account management, sales, or program management experience
- Direct Ford experience strongly preferred
