Procurement Manager

Strategic Sourcing & Procurement ManagerThe Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Manager is responsible for defining and executing the company's global sourcing and procurement strategy to support lithium-ion battery manufacturing and advanced industrial production operations. This role involves leading supplier selection, commercial negotiations, supplier performance management, risk mitigation, and cost optimization initiatives. The position requires close partnership with Engineering, Manufacturing, R&D, Quality, Finance, and Operations teams to ensure a reliable, high-quality, and cost-effective supply base capable of supporting both pilot programs and high-volume production.ResponsibilitiesDevelop and execute global sourcing strategies for materials, components, equipment, and services.Lead supplier identification, qualification, onboarding, and supplier lifecycle management.Negotiate pricing, contracts, payment terms, Incoterms, and commercial agreements.Drive cost-reduction initiatives using TCO and spend analysis methodologies.Establish supplier risk management and dual-sourcing strategies.Support NPI programs, pilot builds, and manufacturing scale-up activities.Lead supplier performance reviews focused on quality, delivery, cost, and responsiveness.Conduct supplier audits and site visits as required.Partner with cross-functional teams on sourcing decisions and supply chain optimization efforts.Report sourcing performance metrics and procurement strategies to leadership.Essential SkillsExtensive experience in developing and executing strategic sourcing initiatives for direct materials, components, capital equipment, and manufacturing services.Proven success in leading supplier negotiations involving pricing, long-term agreements (LTAs), payment terms, Incoterms, warranties, and commercial risk management.Strong supplier relationship management and performance management capabilities, including supplier scorecards, business reviews, and corrective action processes.Expertise in total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis, cost modeling, and implementation of cost-reduction initiatives.Ability to establish sourcing strategies that mitigate supply chain risks through dual sourcing, supplier diversification, and contingency planning.Additional Skills & QualificationsBachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business, Materials Science, or related field.7+ years of strategic sourcing and procurement experience within a manufacturing environment.Demonstrated success negotiating complex supplier agreements and delivering measurable cost savings.Experience sourcing from global suppliers, particularly within Asia and China.Strong analytical, negotiation, financial, and communication skills.Experience supporting new product introduction (NPI), pilot line development, and production ramp activities.Familiarity with supplier quality systems, manufacturing processes, and supplier capacity assessments.Experience utilizing ERP systems such as NetSuite or SAP.Advanced Excel and PowerPoint proficiency.Lithium-ion battery industry experience preferred.Mandarin language proficiency strongly preferred.Aerospace, defense, or other regulated manufacturing industry experience preferred.Ability to travel domestically and internationally (5%-10%).Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Carlsbad, CA.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $110000.00 - $140000.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) plan (possibly with a match, though many growth-stage manufacturers are modest on matching) PTO plus company holidays Life and disability insurance Bonus eligibility for manager-level employeesWorkplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Carlsbad, CA.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Oct 19, 2026.