Global Sourcing Manager

About the role

Graphcore builds advanced hardware and software systems to accelerate artificial intelligence development. As part of the SoftBank Group, we are looking for a manager to oversee sourcing for rack and mechanical infrastructure. This role is responsible for establishing and executing the end-to-end sourcing strategy for critical mechanical components that underpin our compute infrastructure. The hire will act as the primary commercial owner for all rack and mechanical hardware categories, ensuring alignment with business objectives. They will translate complex engineering specifications into robust sourcing strategies that deliver resilient supply chains. This position requires a strategic mindset capable of balancing cost optimization with the need for uncompromising reliability. The individual will drive supplier development initiatives to secure long-term competitive advantages in a demanding market. Ultimately, this role will ensure that Graphcore maintains the physical foundation necessary to support our innovation pipeline.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Spearhead the strategic sourcing agenda for all mechanical hardware and rack components, defining category strategies and execution roadmaps.
• Architect and implement multi-year commodity plans that synchronize supply capabilities with our engineering milestones and deployment schedules.
• Translate intricate technical product requirements into actionable negotiation frameworks and supplier evaluation criteria.
• Lead high-level commercial discussions and strategic negotiations, covering capacity reservations, long-term supply contracts, and complex term structures.
• Develop and maintain detailed cost models, performing should-cost analysis to identify savings opportunities and strengthen negotiation positions.
• Ensure robust supply chain continuity through proactive risk management, monitoring, and capacity planning for critical mechanical items.
• Conduct executive-level business reviews to assess supplier performance against quality, delivery, and cost metrics.
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration with finance, operations, engineering, and supply chain teams to ensure cohesive objective alignment.
• Safeguard the commercial interests of the company by enforcing rigorous contract management practices throughout the lifecycle.
• Analyze market trends and supplier landscapes to identify opportunities for innovation and alternative sourcing strategies.
• Partner with finance to perform detailed cost-benefit analyses, ensuring financial discipline in all procurement decisions.
• Mentor and develop junior sourcing professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and knowledge sharing within the team.
• Implement category management best practices to optimize the total cost of ownership for mechanical infrastructure.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance supplier efficiency and strengthen our overall value proposition.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain, or a related technical discipline.
• Bring a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in technical procurement or strategic sourcing roles.
• Possess direct experience sourcing mechanical hardware and rack infrastructure for technology environments.
• Demonstrate a proven track record of negotiating complex supplier agreements in competitive markets.
• Show the ability to align commercial sourcing strategies with detailed technical product roadmaps and development cycles.
• Exhibit financial literacy, particularly in total cost of ownership analysis and advanced cost modeling techniques.
• Master stakeholder management, with a strong ability to collaborate effectively across diverse departments and cultures.
• Maintain a deep understanding of supply chain principles, including risk mitigation and capacity planning for hardware components.
• Display strong analytical skills to interpret data and translate it into actionable sourcing insights.
• Communicate effectively at all levels, presenting complex information clearly to technical and executive audiences.
• Adhere to the highest standards of ethics and integrity in all business dealings and negotiations.
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities and deadlines with precision.
• Demonstrate commitment to fostering inclusive collaboration within a diverse, global team.

Nice to have

• Specialized knowledge of data center hardware, mechanical assemblies, and rack infrastructure, including cooling and power distribution elements.
• Background in sourcing for hyperscale data centers or AI and machine learning projects that demand high availability.
• An existing professional network within the mechanical manufacturing industry, including original equipment manufacturers and suppliers.
• Experience working in high-growth cloud or infrastructure companies that operate at scale.
• Familiarity with the unique challenges of sourcing for accelerated computing and AI-specific infrastructure components.

Practical notes

This is a full-time position based in Milpitas, California, United States. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, disability and life insurance, commuter benefits, wellness services, and an Employee Assistance Programme. We offer flexible working arrangements and are committed to an inclusive hiring process. Please inform us if you require any reasonable adjustments for your interview.