Supplier Qualification / Audit

International Trade Resources Podcast

Thanks for tuning into the International Trade Resources Podcast with your host, Kim Kirkendall. On today’s episode, Kim is talking with Vineetha Jayaram, an accomplished Strategic Global Procurement professional with a successful record of setting supply strategies across international markets. She’s here to share best practices in supplier qualification and audits, especially during supply chain disruption.
Companies are typically either very large with an established, well-thought-out supplier qualification system, or they are smaller companies that may not know where to start. Vineetha runs through different options companies can use to qualify a supplier internationally. These include using a third-party independent company, utilizing your own team’s capabilities, or request your supplier fill out a self-audit. Vineetha and Kim discuss the pros and cons of each method and how to maximize their effectiveness.
They then walk through what can trigger an audit after the initial qualification. There is the obvious answer –a decline in the quality of the product. However, there are things to keep an eye out for so you can get ahead of the problem. The supplier may change equipment, materials, or other factors that can all be reasons to audit. One key point is that it’s crucial to maintain a clear line of communication. Vineetha and Kim go on to discuss how to read “supplier signals” to pick up on red flags..
To that end, Vineetha and Kim examine the vital roles both anecdotal communication and raw data play in a supplier relationship. Data includes due dates, process shifts, and other critical metrics. Don’t be afraid to use your spidey sense! Marking and highlighting key data points can help you stay on top of the quality of your supplier’s goods.
Things you’ll learn in this episode

1. Your different options regarding supplier audit: a third party, your internal team, or supplier self-audit.
2. What to keep an eye out for that might trigger an audit and how to get ahead of issues before you see a product not meet standards.
3. The importance of communication and data-to inform supplier metrics and maintain good quality products.

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