# Strategic Sourcing Manager (R4734)

**Company:** [Shield AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/shield-ai)
**Location:** Dallas, TX
**Role:** Business Operations
**Salary:** $105k – $140k/yr
**Experience:** 7+ years
**Skills:** ERP, Mrp, As9100, Pcba, Smt, Pcb Fabrication, Harness Production, Cost Modeling, Supplier Management, Analytics Tools
**Posted:** 2025-12-11

> Leads global sourcing strategy, supplier management, and cost optimization for electronics or mechanical commodities in aerospace/defense. Partners with engineering, manufacturing, and programs to ensure supply continuity and compliance; requires 7+ years experience and bachelor's degree.

## Job Description

## What you'll do

### Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute the long-term sourcing strategy for electronic and electromechanical components, including PCBAs, harnesses, connectors, sensors, and embedded systems.
- Own the supplier category roadmap — balancing cost, technology, capacity, and risk management across global supply chains.
- Drive make-vs-buy analyses and business cases that optimize total cost of ownership (TCO) and mitigate single-source risk.
- Establish sourcing policies, metrics, and governance aligned with corporate and program-level goals.

### Supplier Management
- Identify, qualify, and develop a strategic supplier base capable of supporting high-mix, low-to-medium volume production for aerospace and defense applications.
- Negotiate and manage long-term agreements (LTAs), supplier performance reviews, and cost-reduction initiatives.
- Lead supplier business reviews and quarterly operating reviews (QBRs) focusing on delivery, quality, cost, and technical capability.
- Partner with Supplier development and Engineering to ensure AS9100 compliance, FAI completion, and audit readiness.

### Cross-Functional Execution
- Collaborate with Engineering to ensure early supplier involvement (ESI) during product development and NPI phases.
- Work closely with Operations and Program Teams to align material readiness with production schedules and customer milestones.
- Partner with Finance and Legal to structure commercial terms, manage supplier liabilities, and ensure compliance with DFARS, ITAR, and export regulations.
- Support supply risk management and business continuity planning across all electronics categories.

### Data & Process Ownership
- Lead cost modeling, benchmarking, and should-cost analysis to guide sourcing decisions.
- Utilize ERP/MRP and analytics tools to manage spend visibility, supplier KPIs, and material forecasting accuracy.
- Develop and mentor a high-performing sourcing team focused on execution excellence, supplier innovation, and continuous improvement.

## Required qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Electrical Engineering, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred) or equivalent relevant experience
- 7+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or supply chain management with a focus on electronics, PCBA, or electromechanical commodities OR mechanical commodities
- Proven experience in defense, aerospace, or high-reliability manufacturing environments
- Demonstrated success in supplier negotiations, cost reduction initiatives, and long-term contract management
- Deep understanding of electronics manufacturing processes, including PCB fabrication, SMT assembly, and harness production OR mechanical commodities
- Strong business acumen with ability to translate technical and commercial data into strategic sourcing actions
- Excellent communication, influencing, and cross-functional leadership skills

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