Head of Innovation & Business Planning

At Lumilens we are building the critical photonics infrastructure that powers tomorrow’s AI supercomputing. We’re a well‑funded startup backed by Mayfield and led by veterans who’ve built and scaled some of the most transformative technologies in the industry. This isn’t incremental innovation, it’s a ground‑floor opportunity to rethink the optical layer from the silicon up. If you're looking for mission, momentum, and the chance to make an outsized impact, jump on the rocket ship. POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking a Strategic Sourcing Manager to join our rapidly growing team. This role is critical in building and scaling a resilient, high‑performance supplier network to support our next‑generation photonics products.

You will own supplier strategy, sourcing, commercial negotiations, and supply continuity across key categories including silicon photonics, advanced packaging, and optical components. The ideal candidate will build strong supplier relationships, negotiate pricing and terms, and work cross‑functionally with engineering, operations, and manufacturing partners to align sourcing decisions with product development and production goals. This is a highly visible role with direct impact on cost, quality, scalability, and time‑to‑market.

Identify, qualify, onboard, and manage key suppliers across component vendors, contract manufacturers, and strategic manufacturing partners

Lead supplier negotiations across pricing, lead times, capacity, quality, and commercial terms. Negotiate and execute master supply agreements and other critical commercial agreements, including Statement of Work (SOW), development agreements, NDAs, etc.

Drive cost optimization initiatives through early design engagement, market intelligence, should‑cost modeling, supplier process improvement, and long‑term supply agreements.

Ensure supply continuity and mitigate risk through multi‑sourcing, supplier performance management, and contingency planning

Collaborate with operations and manufacturing partners to align demand, capacity, and delivery commitments

Develop and drive supplier performance against KPIs including cost, quality, delivery, responsiveness, capacity and innovation

Key Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field

10+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, or supply chain management within semiconductor, photonics, or high‑tech industries

Strong experience working with global suppliers including contract manufacturers, specialty component vendors, and strategic manufacturing partners

Experience in optical technologies and demonstrated experience with deployment of manufacturing processes

Proven track record supporting NPI to HVM transitions in complex hardware environments and with contract manufacturers

Deep understanding of strategic sourcing fundamentals including cost modeling, supplier negotiations, contract terms, and risk management

Ability to operate cross‑functionally and influence stakeholders across engineering, product management, operations, and finance

Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a data‑driven mindset

Preferred Skills Experience in silicon photonics, optical transceivers, or advanced packaging

Experience building supply chains from early‑stage to scale

Knowledge of global trade, logistics, and compliance considerations

Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, identity, orientation, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

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