Andrea Cardiel

I'm an engineering and operations professional who specializes in making sure complex projects actually cross the finish line. Over the last 4 years in the global automotive industry, I've learned that successful program management is about more than just tracking timelines—it's about coordinating different teams, managing high-stakes risks, and keeping everyone aligned when things get complicated. Whether it's overseeing 150+ engineering changes without a single production leak or negotiating multi-million dollar recoveries with major accounts, I focus on keeping things moving smoothly.

I'm also a big believer in using technology to simplify work, like building tools to automate workflows and cut down on the manual 'noise' that slows teams down.

Strategy & Business Development Analyst at Magna International (2026-02 – Present)

• Support on financial and operational analysis for global programs, focusing on cost structures, pricing, and overall business performance.
• Led the recovery of $13.2M USD in obsolete material by managing customer claims with Stellantis and supporting multiple audit processes to validate and secure reimbursement.
• Negotiated a financial agreement with Stellantis to resolve a $7M USD accounts receivable hold, structuring a plan where $666K in resale costs were retained and later released, restoring full cash flow.
• Execute pricing decisions by breaking down cost drivers and helping teams understand profitability.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams (finance, supply chain, operations) to keep initiatives aligned and moving forward.

Engineering Change and Cost Analysis Engineer at Minghua de México (2024-03 – 2026-01)

• Coordinated over 150 engineering and process changes, ensuring smooth execution without production disruptions.
• Work closely and lead cross-functional teams (quality, production, logistics, CS, PE, sales, purchasing) to keep projects aligned and on track.
• Led the resolution of all audit findings for BMW and IATF, achieving sustained audit results with zero findings moving forward.
• Led the reactivation of a globally discontinued resin color, coordinating cross-functional efforts to restore supply and ensure continuity for BMW service parts production.
• Designed and led the implementation of a workflow automation tool in collaboration with IT, replacing manual documentation and reducing end-to-end process lead time by 60%.
• Updated procedures and standardized workflows to improve traceability and operational consistency.

Cost Control Data Analyst at Minghua de México (2022-05 – 2024-03)

• Built a centralized cost database using Excel macros, consolidating product and process data in the plant.
• Reduce quotation turnaround time by 40%, enabling faster rough estimates based on historical data and existing process benchmarks.
• Supported the transition of commercial operations from China to Mexico, helping define processes and structure.
• Developed standardized workflows aligned with IATF and VDA requirements, forming the basis of the department's operating model (based on my university thesis).

Bachelor's Degree in Manufacturing Engineering – Universidad Politécnica de San Luis Potosí