Strategic Sourcing Program Manager

Position Summary:

The Strategic Sourcing Program Manager leads cross-functional sourcing initiatives to support Engineering and Manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for delivering cost savings, enhancing supplier performance, and driving long-term strategic value. Key areas of focus include sourcing strategies for hardware, electronics, and ordnance, as well as managing service contracts for testing and other outsourced processes. The ideal candidate will bring strong project management experience, advanced sourcing capabilities, and a solid understanding of supply chain and contract negotiations in a technical environment.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities:

Essential functions of the position include, but are not limited to:

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies across key categories aligned with company goals; conduct supplier site visits as needed.
• Lead RFPs/RFIs, supplier selection, contract negotiation, and onboarding processes.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (Finance, Engineering, Operations) to gather sourcing requirements and align strategies.
• Analyze spend, supplier performance, and market trends to identify opportunities for cost reduction and value creation.
• Evaluate and manage supplier relationships, drive continuous improvement, innovation, and risk mitigation.
• Track sourcing project timelines, budgets, and deliverables; provide updates and reports to leadership.
• Ensure adherence to company policies, sourcing ethics, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Apply best practices and sourcing tools to improve procurement processes and scalability.
• Ensure a reliable supply base to support the master production schedule.
• Maintain accurate procurement and supplier data within the ERP system.
• Ensure compliance with ISO/AS9100 procedures and documentation standards.
• Participate in program-level purchasing strategy discussions and problem resolution.
• Ensure timely delivery of materials and address any delivery or quality issues with suppliers.
• Support bid and proposal activities by providing cost analysis and material inputs.
• Promote adherence to internal processes and drive continuous improvement.
• Lead or assist with digital sourcing tools and vendor management systems implementations.
• Mentor junior procurement team members on sourcing best practices and internal procedures.
• Develop and manage Small Business Plans for government contracts.
• Oversee alternate supplier qualifications and ensure compliance with material qualification protocols.
• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.
• Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and safety requirements.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.

• 5 to 8+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain, preferably in a manufacturing or engineering-focused environment.

• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Syspro, SAP, or equivalent).

• Professional certification (e.g., CPSM, CIPS, PMP).

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated success negotiating complex contracts and managing supplier performance.
• Strong analytical skills, including cost modeling and data interpretation.
• Project management skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent initiatives.
• Knowledge of direct and indirect procurement practices for materials and services.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work across all levels of the organization.
• Strong judgment and organizational skills; able to prioritize and manage multiple deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Understanding of mechanical and aeronautical engineering concepts.
• Familiarity with electronics, machining processes, and ordnance components.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple RFQs under tight timelines.
• Industry experience in technology, aerospace, defense, or manufacturing preferred.
• Awareness of sustainability and supplier diversity programs.

Training Requirements:

On-the-job training: Six to twelve months, including Syspro ERP system training

Travel Requirements:

Periodic travel may be required to support project functions such as supplier visits, product testing, and technical customer meetings.

ITAR Requirements:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Physical Demands: (*)

The position requires that the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to handle or feel.  The employee is required to talk and hear. The employee is required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; stoop, and kneel. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds without assistance, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds with assistance. Vision requirements include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment: (*)

This position will require a working environment mix comprised of office, shop floor, field and customer locations (both domestic and international). While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to static electricity; explosives in test conditions; fumes; airborne particles; outside weather conditions prevalent at the time and an air-conditioned and heated office. The noise level is normally moderate may be occasionally high.

*Note: Both the Physical Demand and Work Environment sections are required by the Americans with Disability Act (ADA).

Pay Range: $125k – $165k