Istanbul, Türkiye
I am a Quality Leader with over eight years of experience in the automotive and manufacturing industries, with a strong professional background at Hyundai, Arçelik (Beko), and Otokar. At Hyundai, I was actively involved in Supplier Development and Procurement, focusing on supplier performance improvement, cost-quality balance, and building sustainable supplier relationships. At Arçelik (Beko), I contributed to Quality Assurance processes, ensuring product and process compliance while supporting continuous improvement initiatives in a high-volume production environment. At Otokar, I worked on both Process and Product Quality, managing end-to-end quality activities, driving root cause analysis, and ensuring robustness in manufacturing and product performance. My expertise lies in driving quality excellence through structured problem-solving, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies. I have successfully led and supported cross-functional projects, consistently delivering measurable results by combining data-driven decision-making with a pragmatic and solution-oriented mindset. With a strong academic background in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, I developed a deep understanding that true product quality is built beneath the surface. This perspective naturally led me to Quality Engineering, where I thrive on solving complex challenges, optimizing processes, and creating sustainable value. Throughout my career, I have acted as a key interface between production, suppliers, and engineering teams. This has enabled me to effectively manage diverse stakeholders, stay aligned with industry best practices, and bring a holistic and strategic perspective to quality management. I am highly motivated by achieving tangible improvements in processes, product performance, and customer satisfaction, and I continuously strive to elevate quality standards in every organization I contribute to. Feel free to contact me at: [email protected] Doğan Sandal
• Lead end-to-end process and final quality assurance for armored vehicle assembly lines (Cobra II/I 4×4, ARMA 6×6 & 8×8, Ural 4×4, Mızrak RCWS), covering trim, chassis, powertrain, and E/E systems • Ensure final product approval in line with customer specifications, NATO, US Military Standards, and defense regulations • Oversee body and subsystem assembly, including safety-critical fastening verification, configuration control, and assembly validation • Manage QMS compliance (document control, traceability, configuration management) and drive RCA/CAPA using core quality tools (5 Why, Fishbone) • Conduct VDA 6.3 audits, manage non-conformities, apply risk-based thinking, and report quality KPIs to management • Coordinate cross-functional issue resolution (R&D, Production, Purchasing, Quality); facilitate daily Asakai meetings and contribute as a Scrum Team Member • Prepare and manage Process/Project Quality Plans for CKD and overseas production (AQAP 2110); review supplier CoC (AQAP 2070) and submit batches to MoD GQAR • Lead SQA for critical components, support overseas ramp-up (manpower/equipment/ training), and develop acceptance criteria for PCPA, FAT, and final inspections • Appointed as Quality Expat Supervisor for Romania local production and CKD projects
• Monitored field quality performance and identified improvement opportunities through root cause analysis • Analyzed customer complaints and service data using quality core tools and data analysis (Excel, Power Query) • Defined, tracked, and reported quality KPIs and prepared weekly quality performance reports • Ensured compliance with ISO 9001 QMS and controlled quality documentation • Performed QA testing to verify functionality, compatibility, and reliability • Supported internal and external audits, including supplier and contract manufacturer audits • Applied risk-based quality controls to prevent recurring field failures • Led customer-focused quality improvement and continuous improvement / Lean initiatives
• Managed technical support for domestic and international customers • Owned customer technical and quality issues, ensuring end-to-end resolution and escalation • Reviewed and validated technical specifications in line with production capabilities • Optimized product specifications according to EN, ASTM, JIS, and international steel standards • Provided technical support for galvanized, cold-rolled, hot-rolled, painted, and tinplate steels • Managed after-sales quality and delivery claims, acting as the key interface between customers, production, and quality teams
• Led procurement and part development for interior/exterior trim components (plastics, NVH parts, steering wheels, headliners) • Managed new vehicle program timelines from bidding to mass production in line with NCD processes and SOP milestones • Conducted supplier selection, capacity review, and process/quality audits; supported investment and pricing negotiations • Coordinated technical and commercial activities with suppliers across Turkey, Korea, and India, ensuring quality, cost, and delivery targets • Developed supply chain risk mitigation plans for critical parts (alternative logistics / backup scenarios) • Collaborated with Hyundai Namyang R&D on part development and engineering changes, including related cost and price updates
Long Term Intern at Tofas Turk Otomobil Fabrikası A.Ş (Stellantis Group Car Manufacturer) - Working as part time engineer at Statistical Process Labratory which located in Press Shop. -Testing and inspecting each steel coil ( Bake Hardening, Dual Phase and other steels which standardized by Fiat). - Reporting test results to Tofaş Press Production lines. - Summarizing and reporting mechanical properties of steel such as ( Tensile Strength,Yield Strength , N value , Coating Structure, Forming Limit Diagram analysis, statistical process results ) - Tooling and Die Maintanence Shop ; • Following periodical die maintanence as a supporter