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Thesis Work - Impact of Supplier Lead Time Variability on Production Efficiency

Thesis Worker at Volvo Cars
Welcome to explore the world of Volvo Cars by writing your thesis with us! As a thesis worker in our organization you are supported by a supervisor who follows you during your project. Through your thesis work you will be able to contribute to our company purpose – providing freedom to move in a safe, sustainable and personal way – from day one! 

About this opportunity - Background

In today’s highly competitive automotive industry, efficient production planning is critical to meeting customer demand while minimizing costs. One of the key challenges in achieving this efficiency is the variability in supplier lead times. Fluctuations in lead times can disrupt material availability, increase inventory costs, and cause production delays, ultimately impacting overall operational performance. Understanding the extent of this variability and its influence on production efficiency is essential for developing robust supply chain strategies and improving resilience in a dynamic market environment.

Scope of the thesis work

•    Analyze historical supplier lead time data to identify patterns, variability sources, and their frequency across different supplier categories. 
•    Model the relationship between lead time variability and production efficiency, focusing on metrics such as throughput, downtime, and inventory levels. 
•    Simulate production scenarios under varying lead time conditions using appropriate planning and scheduling tools. 
•    Evaluate the impact of mitigation strategies, such as safety stock, dual sourcing, or flexible scheduling, on reducing variability effects. 
•    Provide actionable recommendations for improving supply chain resilience and production stability based on findings.

What you'll bring

The ideal candidate will possess the following:
•    Academic Focus: Current or recent studies in a relevant field such as Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or Logistics.
•    Location: The position is based in Gothenburg and requires the thesis worker to be present on-site for the majority of the working period. Opportunities for remote work will be available on a case-by-case basis.
•    Language Skills: Demonstrated proficiency in both written and spoken English.

Duration

•    The work will start in January 2026
•    The duration for this thesis work is 20 weeks.
•    30 ECTS (Master academic credits) in agreement with your Thesis Advisor at the University.
•    This thesis is to be conducted by 2 Students working in pair. 


Volvo Cars. For Life.
For nearly a century, Volvo Cars has empowered people to move freely in a personal, sustainable and safe way. Today, we are driving bold advancements in electrification, sustainability and automotive safety. To realise our ambitious vision, we are seeking innovative minds who are ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow – today.

At Volvo Cars, we believe extraordinary things are achieved by ordinary people with a passion for making a difference. If you’re inspired by the opportunity to help redefine the future of mobility, we invite you to be part of our journey.

Ready to take the next step?

Selection will be ongoing during the application period, so do not hesitate to send in your application. Attach your CV and personal letter stating your interests within the given area and your thoughts and credentials.

 

Apply as soon as possible, but no later than  2025-11-05. Please note that applications via email will not be accepted.

 

If you have any additional questions regarding the thesis work, you are welcome to contact the Manager, Axel Bouvier at axel.bouvier@volvocars.com or the Supervisor, Sirious Nterai at sirious.nterai@volvocars.com.


As part of the recruitment process, the final candidates might undergo a background check.

Welcome with your application!

Gothenburg, SE, 40531

Job requisition ID:  77799

Apply now »