Group Manager, Global Supply Management – Battery Cell Materials

About the Job: 

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Group Manager, Global Supply Management – Battery Cell Materials to lead the sourcing and management of direct materials for our planned U.S.-based battery cell manufacturing facility. This role is critical to the success of Peak Energy’s supply chain strategy, ensuring optimized strategic sourcing and management of key materials, including active materials (i.e. electrode active materials, electrolyte), and non-active materials (i.e. lids, cans, separators). 
 
The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in battery cell direct materials sourcing, a strong technical background, and expertise in navigating the complexities of global and U.S.-specific trade policies. This individual will work closely with internal teams, including cell engineering and policy, to build a resilient and cost-effective supply chain that supports our manufacturing objectives. 

Responsibilities: 

Strategic Sourcing and Contract Negotiation 

• Develop and execute a comprehensive supply chain strategy for battery cell direct materials, optimizing for cost, quality, and reliability within the current U.S. policy environment. 

• Lead supplier identification, qualification, and onboarding processes to ensure alignment with company objectives. 

• Negotiate contracts for key materials, addressing pricing, lead times, warranties, and other critical terms. 

• Collaborate with the policy team to ensure compliance with U.S. trade regulations and maximize benefits within the Trump policy framework. 

Supplier Management: 

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with global suppliers, focusing on long-term partnerships and continuous improvement. 

• Monitor supplier performance to ensure adherence to quality, cost, and delivery targets. 

Cross-Functional Collaboration: 

• Work closely with the cell engineering team to align material specifications with manufacturing requirements. 

• Partner with the policy team to stay informed about regulatory changes and integrate them into supply chain strategies. 

Market Analysis: 

• Stay current on market trends, pricing dynamics, and supply chain risks related to battery cell direct materials. 

• Identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve supply chain resiliency through strategic initiatives. 

Travel: 

• Travel to supplier sites in Asia as needed for assessments, negotiations, and relationship building (up to 35% of the time). 

Qualifications: 

Experience: 

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in strategic sourcing or procurement of battery cell direct materials. 

• Proven track record of managing high-value material procurement programs in the energy storage or automotive sectors. 

Technical Expertise: 

• Strong understanding of battery cell components, including electrodes, lids, cans, separators, and electrolytes. 

• Ability to interpret technical specifications and collaborate effectively with engineering teams. 

Skills: 

• Demonstrated expertise in supplier negotiations, cost reduction, and contract management. 

• Strong analytical skills to evaluate supplier capabilities, market trends, and policy impacts. 

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.  

Education: 

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, supply chain management, or a related field. Advanced degrees (MBA or technical master’s) are a plus. 

Travel Requirement: 

• Willingness t