Client Overview
Our client, a Tier-2 manufacturing company in the automotive industry, specializes in precision-engineered components critical for electric vehicles (EVs). Based in the U.S., the company faced an urgent need to scale its operations due to increased demand from OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) transitioning to EV production. This required a rapid expansion of their engineering and production teams, with a specific focus on high-skilled talent in manufacturing design, quality assurance, and supply chain optimization.
The client’s challenge was to find technically proficient professionals who could adapt to their specialized manufacturing processes, meet tight production deadlines, and align with their culture of precision and innovation.
The Challenge
- Talent Scarcity:
The demand for skilled workers in the automotive sector was at an all-time high, making it difficult to attract and retain the necessary talent domestically.
- Time Constraints:
The company had less than six months to scale its workforce by 30% to meet contractual obligations with OEMs.
- Specialized Skill Sets:
Positions required expertise in advanced manufacturing techniques, Six Sigma, and ISO standards, with prior experience in the automotive industry.
- Geographical and Cultural Fit:
As the company planned to integrate nearshore teams, they needed professionals who could work across borders seamlessly, aligning with their U.S. operations in real-time.
The Kinetiq Approach
At Kinetiq, we approached the project with a clear, structured methodology to deliver results effectively and efficiently.
- Comprehensive Needs Analysis:
- We conducted detailed discussions with the client’s leadership to understand the required technical skills, team dynamics, and production goals.
- Created a competency matrix for each role, ensuring alignment with the company’s objectives and standards.
- Customized Nearshore Recruitment Strategy:
- Leveraged our extensive network in Mexico and Latin America to identify highly qualified candidates with automotive and manufacturing expertise.
- Targeted professionals with certifications in Six Sigma, ISO/TS standards, and hands-on experience in precision engineering for EV components.
- Accelerated Screening and Hiring Process:
- Implemented a streamlined process using technical assessments and panel interviews to evaluate both hard and soft skills.
- Ensured cultural compatibility through behavioral interviews focused on teamwork and adaptability.
- Integration and Support:
- Facilitated onboarding programs that bridged cultural and operational gaps between the U.S. and nearshore teams.
- Provided ongoing support for both the client and new hires to ensure a smooth transition and sustained productivity.
Results Achieved
- Rapid Team Expansion:
- Successfully onboarded 35 highly skilled professionals within the six-month timeframe.
- Key roles included manufacturing engineers, quality control specialists, supply chain analysts, and production supervisors.
- Operational Excellence:
- Improved production efficiency by 18%, meeting all OEM deadlines.
- Reduced error rates in production by 12% through the integration of Six Sigma-trained quality specialists.
- Cost Savings:
- Achieved a 25% reduction in hiring costs compared to domestic recruitment, thanks to nearshore talent and our tailored process.
- Seamless Collaboration:
- Implemented communication tools and workflows that enabled real-time collaboration between U.S.-based and nearshore teams.
- The cultural alignment and similar time zones enhanced productivity and team cohesion.
- Retention and Long-Term Impact:
- After 12 months, 90% of the hired professionals remained with the company, contributing to sustained growth and innovation.
- The client reported a significant improvement in their employer brand, attracting additional high-caliber talent.
