Head of Cab Engineering & Development

Role Summary: We are seeking a highly experienced and dynamic leader to establish, lead, and manage our new Cab Engineering & Development team. This critical role involves taking full ownership of the design, development, validation, and homologation of brand-new HD and MD truck cab platforms, from concept through to production launch. The successful candidate will possess deep technical expertise in CV cab systems combined with proven leadership capabilities to build and mentor a high-performing engineering team.

This individual will be instrumental in shaping the future of our truck cabins, ensuring they meet stringent performance, safety, cost, quality, and regulatory requirements. Key Responsibilities: Strategic & Technical Leadership: Define and execute the technical strategy and roadmap for HD and MD cab platform development. Lead the conceptualization, design, engineering, and development activities for complete cab systems, including Cab-in-White (BIW), Interior & Exterior Trims, Sealing, NVH, Safety (Structural & Occupant), Ergonomics, HVAC integration, Electrical/Electronic integration within the cab, and overall Cab integration with the chassis.

Ensure designs meet functional, performance, cost, weight, quality, manufacturability, serviceability, and regulatory targets (including Indian AIS standards and relevant international regulations). Drive innovation in cab design, materials, and manufacturing processes. Oversee the application of engineering tools (CAD, CAE, PLM) and methodologies throughout the development lifecycle.

Team Building & Management: Recruit, build, mentor, and lead a skilled team of cab design and development engineers. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and results-oriented team culture. Manage team resources effectively, including workload allocation, performance management, and professional development. 3 Program Management & Execution: Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of the HD and MD cab platform programs according to defined timelines, budgets, and quality gates (APQP).

Manage technical risks and develop mitigation plans. Ensure seamless integration of cab systems with other vehicle domains (Chassis, Powertrain, Electrical). Validation & Homologation: Oversee the development and execution of Design Verification Plans & Reports (DVP&R) for cab systems at component, sub-system, and vehicle levels.

Manage virtual simulation (CAE) and physical testing activities, ensuring correlation and validation sign-off. Ensure successful homologation of the cab platforms according to relevant standards. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Product Planning, Styling, Manufacturing, Quality, Sourcing, and Service teams to ensure alignment and successful product launch.

Collaborate effectively with suppliers for component development, ensuring technical requirements and quality standards are met. Required Qualifications & Experience: Bachelor’s / Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, or Automotive Engineering Minimum of 20+ years of progressive experience in Automotive Engineering, with a significant focus on Commercial Vehicle (Truck) Cab design and development. Proven track record of leading the development of at least one complete Medium / Heavy CV Cab program from concept to production launch.

In-depth technical knowledge across various cab domains: BIW, Trims (Interior/Exterior), Seating Systems, Safety (Crash, Occupant), NVH, Ergonomics, HVAC, Electrical distribution within the cab. Strong experience with CAD (e.g., CATIA) and CAE (e.g., Structural, Crash, NVH) tools and processes. Demonstrated experience (minimum 10+ years) in leading, managing, and mentoring engineering teams.

Thorough understanding of automotive product development processes (e.g., APQP, PPAP) and V-cycle. Familiarity with Indian (AIS) and international automotive regulations pertaining to truck cabs. Excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.

Strong project management capabilities. Preferred Qualifications: Master’s Degree in Engineering. Specific experience in developing both Heavy Duty and Medium Duty truck cabs.

Good understanding of Indian CV market with exposure to European Cab Requirements Exposure to global automotive standards and practices. Experience with modularity principles, light weighting strategies, advanced materials, and relevant manufacturing technologies (e.g., stamping, welding, joining, plastics).