Senior Purchasing Manager - Raw Materials

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!

SUPPLY CHAIN

Our Global Supply Chain Management team is offering an opportunity to lead subcontract management for major satellite programs. In this role, you will perform a variety of supply chain functions, including supplier development, requirement solicitations, contract award, post-award management, and close-out activities. You will also have the opportunity to work in an energetic, collaborative environment that supports one of the fastest growing companies in the satellite industry. You will be a catalyst for effective subcontract execution in alignment with program objectives.  We value diverse skills and experience. Your qualifications will add tremendous value to our team. If you’re passionate about what you could accomplish in this role, we’d love to hear from you.

SENIOR PURCHASING MANAGER – RAW MATERIALS

Based on site at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Manager of Purchasing, Raw Material will be responsible for building and managing our direct material purchasing team for our headquarter 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 and leading a high performing team.  This role will report to the Senior Director of Direct Material.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Manage a highly effective purchasing team focused on the raw material commodity (aluminum/composites/printed) for our Launch and Space programs
• Accountable for the procurement of direct materials in support of production material demand and rapid engineering development
• Responsible for developing a global commodity strategy to create best in class cost, quality, and delivery goals in support of Rocket Lab’s growth
• Negotiate pricing on a first principles basis for purchased material cost and create a bottom-up cost model to influence engineering design direction
• Operate as an external representative of Rocket Lab and manage respective supplier relationships.  Conduct supplier performance management including dispute resolution, scorecards, and quarterly business reviews

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, supply chain, or other relevant fields and 9+ years of related experience in purchasing, with management experience in fast-paced environment
• 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
• 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 10% of time.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively and efficiently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Team oriented, strong ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment and to multiple deadlines.
• Prior experience in aerospace, automotive, or other disruptive manufacturing industries
• Prior experience in rapid growth environment
• Experience with AS9100, US export controls (ITAR and EAR)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.   
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communi