Director of Purchasing

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.  

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

DIRECTOR OF PURCHASING

Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Director of Purchasing will be responsible for building and managing our direct material purchasing team for our global operations. The purchasing team supports direct material purchasing for launch and space systems, from R&D and new product introduction through production ramp. We are growing fast, and our ideal candidate will have experience in building a high performing team.  This role will report to the Vice President of Global Supply Chain.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Direct a team of managers accountable for purchasing and fulfillment of direct materials.
• Responsible for the procure to pay process of direct materials, including purchase requisitions, purchase order creation and approval, on time delivery of goods, and clearing procurement issues that hold up invoice processing.
• Accountable for developing purchasing strategy to meet Rocket Lab's cost, quality, and delivery goals.
• Accountable for leading team of purchasing managers, commodity managers, and buyers to meet on-time fulfillment to production and engineering.
• Responsible for sourcing, requests for quotes/proposals, contracting, negotiating strategy, and purchase order placement.
• Negotiate pricing with suppliers to reduce total material cost.
• Manage suppliers for cost, quality, and delivery.
• Accountable for ensuring supplier master data within MRP is accurate.
• Work in a cross functional team environment as a strong team player and demonstrate ability to work with other functional groups to achieve company-wide goals.
• Other duties asked by your manager, relevant to your role.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, supply chain, or other relevant fields
• 12+ years of related experience in purchasing, with management experience in fast-paced environment
• Proven ability to source, onboard, and contract pricing agreements with suppliers.
• Proven ability to define team strategy and build operating plans to achieve vision and long-term goals.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 20% of time.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively and efficiently.
• Team oriented, strong ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and to multiple deadlines.
• Prior experience in aerospace, EV automotive, or other disruptive manufacturing industries.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Proficient in SQL and MRP systems.
• Experience in managing remote resources across multiple sites.
• Prior experience in rapid growth environment.
• Experience with AS9100, ITAR export controls, EAR, and FAR.
• Experience in negotiating large contracts for facilities, IT, and large CapEx purchases.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to travel and communicate outside of work hours.
• Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. 

Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, stock options, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits may also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick l