Martin Steyn Email & Phone Number

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Victoria, Australia

As the Vehicle Engineering Quality Supervisor at Ford, I played a critical role in ensuring the quality of the next generation Ranger and Everest products. Collaboration with Attribute teams was paramount to achieve this goal. Utilising internal quality metrics and tools, I tracked and reported quality performance, identified critical Vehicle Engineering issues, and supported Root Cause Investigation with Attribute leads.One of the key responsibilities of the Vehicle Engineering Quality Supervisor was to address customer-related issues by promptly identifying and resolving quality issues and implementing changes in production processes. This was approached through continuous quality improvement and ultimately achieving our goal of enhanced end-user experience.In this role, a deep understanding of quality metrics and tools was essential. I leveraged this knowledge to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams, ensuring that quality issues were addressed comprehensively. Moreover, my dedication to improving the end-user experience drove me to apply problem-solving skills, communicate effectively, and utilise my expertise in automotive engineering and root cause analysis.

South Africa

As the Launch Vehicle Integration Supervisor at Ford Motor Company of South Africa, I played a pivotal role in the successful introduction of the next generation Ford Ranger and Amarok in the manufacturing facility. With a keen focus on achieving Vehicle Engineering targets, I led a diverse team of local and international engineers, collaborating closely to identify, analyse, and resolve any issues related to local manufacturing processes, the supply base, and unique environmental conditions.In this role, I spearheaded extensive collaboration with the entire plant-based team, including engineers, suppliers, manufacturing personnel, and process control personnel. Together, we worked tirelessly to understand and address significant challenges, ensuring that all necessary improvements were made prior to the mass production phase. Guiding a complex project with multiple stakeholders, I paid meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a seamless introduction of the next generation Ford Ranger and Amarok, while adhering to local working practices and regulations.To achieve our objectives, I relied on resilience, flexibility, and an unwavering commitment to safety. Effective leadership, collaboration, problem-solving, and a deep understanding of local regulations and working practices were critical in navigating the project's complexities. By harnessing these skills, I successfully facilitated the integration of the new vehicle models, enabling the manufacturing facility to deliver high-quality products that exceed customer expectations.The culmination of our team's efforts resulted in a remarkable achievement: winning the prestigious “Car of the Year 2023” award. This is a groundbreaking moment, as it marks the first time a truck has ever claimed this esteemed title.

Geelong, Victoria, Australia

As the Vehicle Integration Supervisor for the Next Generation Ranger Raptor, I took on the exciting challenge of surpassing the benchmarks set by the previous Raptor variant. This required a high level of creativity and innovative thinking to develop a product that would set a new standard in the industry.Close collaboration with the Ford Performance team in North America was essential to gain a deep understanding of the global customer base and their specific needs. By leveraging this knowledge, we were able to create a product that exceeded customer expectations and redefined the benchmark for customers around the world.A key aspect of my role was to understand the targets set by the Attribute teams and effectively balance them within the Vehicle Engineering function. This involved working closely with the Product Development group to develop cost-effective, robust, and high-performance solutions. Our ultimate goal was to deliver a well-balanced product that excelled in terms of performance.Customer satisfaction was our top priority throughout the product development process. We placed great emphasis on enhancing the user experience by paying meticulous attention to the finer details of the product. This involved investing significant effort into ensuring that the final product met and exceeded the needs and expectations of our customers.Overall, my role as the Vehicle Integration Supervisor for the Next Generation Ranger Raptor was multi-faceted and required a deep understanding of customer needs, technical expertise, collaboration, and meticulous attention to detail. By leveraging these skills, we successfully delivered a product that went beyond expectations.Winning the “2023 Best Off-Road Ute” and “Car of the Year” awards for our project was truly a career highlight for me. I had a deep passion for this specific project, and it was incredibly rewarding to see our hard work and dedication recognised with such prestigious accolades.

Lara, You Yangs Proving Ground, Australia

As the Supervisor of the Vehicle Dynamics Program Attribute Team, my role was focused on working closely with a team of Vehicle Dynamics experts to achieve the objectives set for the vehicle attribute. This involved extensive collaboration and communication to ensure alignment with the overall program targets.In addition to managing my own team, I actively collaborated with other attribute teams within the Vehicle Engineering function to find a balanced outcome that met the customer's needs. This required a deep understanding of the technical aspects of the vehicle and effective negotiation skills to find solutions that satisfied all parties involved.Furthermore, I frequently collaborated with other functions outside the Vehicle Engineering teams, such as the Design and Release (D&R) Engineers, to optimize components from both functional and cost perspectives. This was crucial in ensuring that the Attribute requirements aligned with our engineering processes and met rigorous standards.Throughout my role, teamwork, collaborative problem-solving, cross-functional team leadership, and a strong understanding of vehicle dynamics and product development were essential skills that I employed to drive success.The culmination of our team's efforts resulted in a remarkable achievement: winning the “Car of the Year 2023” award.

Chongqing City, China

My role as the Vehicle Dynamics Subject Matter Expert played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful launch of various Ford vehicle lines in China, while also coaching and developing the local team. By the end of 2015, Ford had achieved significant success in China, by significantly increasing overall sales and becoming the 6th best Automotive Joint Venture in the country, with annual sales of over a million vehicles. This success was built on the achievements and contributions made during my time in China.As the overseer of the Vehicle Dynamics Attribute during the introduction of various Ford vehicle lines in China, my role involved close collaboration with different Vehicle Engineering organizations worldwide to ensure the vehicles met the agreed-upon targets during development. Throughout the launch phase, I led the identification and root cause analysis of attribute-related issues that could impact the vehicle's performance and the end customer experience. Working with both the global Vehicle Engineering organization and local teams, I integrated effectively with cross-functional teams, including Design & Release Engineers, Manufacturing & Suppliers, to expedite issue resolution and meet demanding timelines.In addition to my launch responsibilities, I took on the crucial task of developing the capability of the local team to lead future launches in the region. This involved transferring my expertise to the local Vehicle Dynamics Engineer and coaching the Vehicle Engineering team in the necessary processes for successful vehicle launches. I also played a critical role in enhancing the Vehicle Engineering capability by developing driver training programs and improving vehicle evaluation skills, thereby strengthening the team's launch capabilities.It was a privilege to contribute to such an achievement and witness the positive impact our collaboration had on the company's growth.

South Africa

As a Vehicle Dynamics Launch Subject-Matter Expert (SME), my role encompassed overseeing the Vehicle Dynamics Attribute during the launch of the T6 Ranger in AAT (Thailand) and FMCSA (Ford Motor Company South Africa) build locations, in preparation for mass production. In close collaboration with the LVEA (Lead Vehicle Engineering Activity) in Australia, I ensured the achievement of all Vehicle Dynamics Attribute targets and the successful launch of the Ranger in both plants.Throughout the launch phase, I took the lead in identifying and conducting root cause analysis of attribute-related issues that had a negative impact on the vehicle. Working closely with the LVEA and local teams, I employed a structured approach to issue resolution, implementing fixes that underwent rigorous validation before mass production. Effective integration with various teams, including Design & Release Engineers, Manufacturing & Suppliers, was vital to expedite issue resolution and meet challenging deadlines.Overall, my role as the Vehicle Dynamics SME played a pivotal part in the successful launch of the Ford Ranger in both the JV (Joint Venture) plant and FMCSA. Leveraging my expertise in Vehicle Dynamics and fostering effective collaboration with diverse teams, I played a critical role in identifying and resolving issues. I met all necessary Vehicle Engineering Attribute targets, and ensured the vehicle was well-prepared for mass production and market introduction.

Thailand

As a Ford Vehicle Integration Lead for AAT Thailand, I held a pivotal role in the introduction of the Ford Fiesta in the Joint Venture manufacturing plant, preparing it for mass production. Close collaboration with my German counterparts in Cologne was crucial to ensure the achievement of all Vehicle Engineering Attribute targets and the successful introduction of the Fiesta in the plant.During the launch phase, I took the lead in identifying and conducting root cause analysis of build issues that affected the vehicle attributes. Working alongside the LVEA (Lead Vehicle Engineering Activity) team and the local team, I supported issue resolution and implemented fixes that underwent thorough validation before mass production. Effective integration with diverse teams, including Design & Release Engineers, Manufacturing & Suppliers, was essential to resolve issues promptly and professionally, prioritizing quick turnaround times and meeting tight deadlines.Overall, my role as the Vehicle Integration Lead played a crucial part in the successful introduction of the Ford Fiesta in the Joint Venture manufacturing plant. Through effective collaboration with different teams and leveraging my expertise in vehicle integration, I played a critical role in identifying and resolving issues, meeting all necessary Vehicle Engineering Attribute targets, and ensuring the vehicle was well-prepared for mass production and market introduction.

Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa

As a Test and Vehicle Dynamics Development Engineer, my role was multifaceted and required me to oversee a broad range of engineering tasks. I was responsible for testing vehicles and components according to specified testing processes, including the evaluation of components and vehicle durability. This required me to work closely with various teams and suppliers to ensure that all testing was conducted to the highest possible standards.I was also responsible for the development of vehicle components to meet Ford Engineering Standards. This involved working closely with the design and production teams to ensure that all components were developed to meet the rigorous standards set by Ford. I took a detail-oriented approach to this task, ensuring that all components were thoroughly tested and evaluated before being approved for use in production.In addition to this, I also assumed the role of Vehicle Dynamics Engineer, where my primary focus was on improving the overall Vehicle Dynamics quality of the vehicle. The role required me to work with various suppliers to develop and test different tire options to supporting damper tuning activities on various vehicle lines. I was responsible for ensuring that the vehicle dynamics were optimized for performance, handling, and safety.Overall, my role as a Test and Vehicle Dynamics Development Engineer required me to be highly skilled and knowledgeable in the field of mechanical engineering. I was responsible for ensuring that all components and vehicles met the highest possible standards, and that all testing and development activities were conducted to the highest possible level of precision and accuracy.

South Africa

During my Mechanical Engineering Diploma program, I completed a mandatory practical experience in the field of Mechanical Engineering. Throughout this period, I worked as a Chassis Engineer, providing support to the local development team involved in implementing, testing, and developing local content changes for the 3 Series BMW vehicles manufactured at the BMW Rosslyn plant.As a Chassis Engineer, my primary responsibility was to ensure the improvement of build quality in all areas related to the chassis. This encompassed overseeing various aspects of chassis development and collaborating with the team to implement effective enhancements. Additionally, I took the lead in introducing new, BMW-specific wheel alignment equipment for end-of-line process validation, contributing to the optimization of production processes.