Buse C.
Automotive R&D Program Manager
Experience
Jun 2022 - Nov 2024
2 years 6 monthsDriveline Systems Engineer
Ford Otosan R&D Center
- Led component ownership for drive-line systems in Transit projects from concept to SOP, validation and production launch.
- Coordinated DV/PV testing activities (NVH, durability, thermal), analyzed results and implemented design updates with CAD and CAE teams with managed documentation through Teamcenter.
- Worked cross-functionally with design, testing, purchasing, plant and quality teams under agile project structure.
- Investigated plant and field issues, conducted root cause analysis and implemented engineering changes.
- Participated in supplier feasibility reviews, design freeze meetings, and ensured timing and cost alignment.
- Created and presented DFMEA, DVP plans, campaign prevention documents and budget reviews to global stakeholders (Ford UK & Ford US).
- Delivered cost-down initiatives with technical feasibility assessments and supplier negotiation support.
- Ensured compliance with Ford and international standards (e.g. GSP, ISO, vehicle attribute targets) during development and validation phases.
Nov 2020 - Jun 2022
1 year 8 monthsInterior Trim Systems Engineer
Ford Otosan R&D Center
- Took full ownership of interior trim components (instrument panel, door trims, consoles) using hard and soft plastic materials.
- Collaborated with design studios and ergonomic teams to meet visual and tactile quality (perceived quality) targets.
- Coordinated supplier feasibility studies and managed engineering sign-offs throughout the program lifecycle.
- Supported design for manufacturing (DFM) and ensured geometric compatibility through CAD & physical checks.
- Investigated assembly plant feedback and implemented corrective actions related to squeak & rattle, fit & finish, and color-matching issues.
- Ensured packaging and integration of interior components with HVAC, electronics, and structural elements during digital mock-up (DMU) reviews.
- Balanced styling and cost constraints by guiding design iterations and supporting cost reduction workshops with purchasing and suppliers.
May 2020 - Oct 2020
6 monthsR&D Project Consultant
Experto
- Prepared technical reports and funding applications for R&D and innovation projects under national grant schemes.
- Translated companies’ innovative processes and methods into state-compliant formats aligned with funding criteria.
- Advised clients on how to structure R&D activities and document technical features to meet eligibility requirements.
- Supported project teams in identifying cost-eligible features, defining work packages, and aligning with grant timelines.
Jul 2019 - Aug 2019
2 monthsIntern
Novartis
- Supported manufacturing support teams in equipment reliability analysis and daily plant operations.
- Gained early exposure to pharmaceutical production standards and GMP compliance.
Jul 2018 - Aug 2018
2 monthsIntern
BASF
- Supported localization projects for industrial chemical products by contributing to supplier mapping and market feasibility research.
- Participated in internal marketing activities including competitor benchmarking and product positioning efforts.
Summary
R&D Engineer with 4 years of experience at Ford Otosan, worked on various medium commercial vehicle programs from concept to launch and further. Specialized in interior trim and drive-line systems, managing components as part of cross-functional teams in an agile environment. Led supplier collaboration, conducted testing and validation, solved quality issues, and drove cost reduction initiatives. Regularly prepared technical and financial presentations for senior stakeholders. Effectively operated in a role bridging engineering and program management.
Languages
English
AdvancedTurkish
AdvancedGerman
IntermediateEducation
Sep 2015 - Dec 2019
Koc University
B.Sc. · Mechanical Engineering · İstanbul, Turkey
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