Senior Supply Chain Manager
About Blue Robotics
Blue Robotics makes affordable, high-quality hardware and software for marine robotics - from underwater thrusters and ROVs to autonomous surface vehicles and the software that runs them. What does this really mean? We design cool tech for use underwater that allows tons of people and organizations to pursue their audacious dreams of exploring and learning about our oceans and waterways.
About the Role
We’re on a mission to enable the future of marine robotics by designing and manufacturing low-cost, high-performance components because we believe marine robotics should be accessible to everyone. Just as our customers depend on our products, we depend on our supply chain systems and global network of suppliers. We are proud of what we have been able to accomplish with our current systems and processes, but to scale up we need more help!
We are looking for a hands-on Senior Supply Chain Manager to lead our procurement, supplier management, sourcing strategy, and supply chain operations. As the Senior Supply Chain Manager you will ensure we have the right suppliers, materials, and systems to support reliable production. We work with a global network of suppliers spanning precision machining, injection molding, PCB fabrication, PCB assembly, cable assemblies, electronics manufacturing, and contract manufacturing. As our product line evolves we will depend on you to refine and strengthen our systems, expand supplier networks, and map out our inventory investment.
While you won’t be starting from scratch, there are many, many opportunities to improve quality, cost, and help shape the future of a growing manufacturing company. If you are looking for a role that will tap into your strategic thinking, advanced problem solving and your special brand of hands-on leadership, we want to hear from you!
What You'll Do
- Develop sourcing strategies and identify, evaluate, and recommend suppliers based on quality, cost, lead time, capacity, and supply chain risk.
- Provide leadership and direction to the Buyer and Supply Chain Systems Manager.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and manufacturing partners.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to improve quality, delivery performance, and responsiveness.
- Manage outsourced manufacturing partners including PCB assembly, machining, subassemblies, kitting, and other contract manufacturing services.
- Ensure subcontracted materials, work-in-process inventory, and externally held inventory are controlled and properly tracked.
- Partner with Quality and suppliers to address supplier performance issues, corrective actions, and delivery concerns.
- Establish and maintain purchasing policies, approval workflows, and controls that support efficient procurement operations.
- Develop forecasting processes that support inventory availability while minimizing excess inventory.
- Develop inventory strategies that support production requirements and business objectives.
- Establish and report key supply chain metrics to support business decision making.
- Develop sourcing strategies that balance quality, cost, lead time, and risk.
- Support make-versus-buy evaluations and supplier transition projects.
- Own inbound logistics operations including ocean freight, air freight, freight forwarder management, and import planning.
- Oversee duty drawback programs and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
- Develop business continuity and supply disruption mitigation plans.
- Work closely with Finance to ensure purchasing, inventory, and supplier transactions are accurately recorded and managed.
- Occasional international travel to suppliers and manufacturing partners.
Minimum Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in supply chain, procurement, sourcing, manufacturing operations, or related fields within a manufacturing environment.
- Experience sourcing and managing suppliers for machined components and injection molded components
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and relationship management abilities.
- Demonstrated experience leading supplier relationships, sourcing initiatives, procurement activities, or cross-functional projects.
- Experience with contract manufacturers and outsourced production environments.
- Adept at using ERP systems in a manufacturing environment, preferably Odoo.
- Experience with import logistics.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience sourcing and managing suppliers for PCB fabrication, PCB assembly, cable assemblies, electronics, or electromechanical products.
- Experience working with international suppliers, particularly suppliers located in China and Asia.
- Mandarin language proficiency is highly desirable.
Perks, Pay & More
- Hybrid - 4 days per week onsite in Torrance, CA; 1 day remote
- Medical, dental and vision insurance
- Basic Life and AD&D coverage
- Voluntary Life Insurance
- 401(k) + 4% Match
- Paid parental leave
- Paid time off + Paid Holidays
- Team lunches and other fun events