Senior Global Supply Manager I

About the role

You own the complete sourcing and procurement lifecycle for major satellite subcomponents, driving strategy, cost, and schedule execution. You will develop and implement subcontracting strategies that align with program requirements while actively mitigating supply chain risks. In this role, you act as an external representative of Rocket Lab, managing critical supplier relationships and ensuring on-cost, on-quality, and on-time delivery. You will negotiate pricing on a first principles basis to achieve best-in-class cost structures and operate as a key stakeholder in cross-functional, high-velocity environments. You will monitor engineering design activity and guide supplier selection based on precise specifications and capabilities. You will also develop and execute risk mitigation plans to resolve supplier issues and drive continuous improvement. If you are passionate about enabling ambitious space missions through supply chain excellence, this role offers direct impact on Rocket Lab's satellite programs.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Owner of all Sourcing and Procurement aspects including strategy, cost and schedule for major satellite subcomponents. This means being responsible for issuing RFQs/RFPs, negotiating contract proposals, and managing the execution of any supplier agreement.
• Develop sourcing and subcontracting strategies that meet program requirements while mitigating supply risks. Manage global supply chain execution and ensure on-cost, on-quality, and on-time delivery of critical satellite components.
• Monitor engineering design activity and guide supplier selection and performance based on requirements, specifications, and capabilities.
• Address all areas of commodity management including market conditions, technology roadmaps, cost modeling, and sourcing strategies.
• Operate as an external representative of Rocket Lab and manage respective supplier relationships. Conduct supplier performance management including scorecards, quarterly business reviews and dispute resolution.
• Develop and execute mitigation plans to address supplier risks and issues.
• Negotiate pricing with suppliers on a first principles basis to achieve best in class cost structures.
• Manage internal communications on supply, cost, and quality with key stakeholders and leadership.
• Identify and implement cost reduction opportunities to continuously drive value for the business.
• Work in a cross-functional team environment as a strong team player and demonstrate ability to work with other functions to resolve issues.
• Provide subject matter expertise on supply chain best practices and guide junior team members through mentorship and documentation.
• Partner with Finance to perform cost analysis, evaluate trade studies, and support budgeting and forecasting activities related to procurement.
• Ensure compliance with contractual terms, quality standards, and regulatory requirements across the supplier base.
• Support the development of category strategies and play a key role in supplier rationalization and strategic sourcing initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years of progressive experience in supply chain, procurement, or a related field, with at least three years in a management-level role.
• Demonstrated experience managing suppliers for complex hardware programs, preferably in the aerospace or defense industry.
• Proven ability to negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships in a high-growth, fast-paced environment.
• Strong knowledge of global supply chain operations, including sourcing, procurement, logistics, and compliance.
• Experience with cost modeling, cost reduction initiatives, and value analysis techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of an organization.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to work effectively in a matrixed organization and collaborate across engineering, finance, and operations.
• Willingness to travel as required, which may include domestic and international trips to supplier sites.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for this position.
• Must comply with Rocket Lab's drug-free workplace policy and pass any required background checks.

Nice to have

• Master's degree in a related field.
• Experience with satellite or space hardware supply chains.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements specific to aerospace and export controls.
• Experience with supplier scorecard development and performance metrics.
• Knowledge of contract management tools and best practices.
• Experience in a fast-paced, scaling organization with high operational rigor.

Practical notes

• This role may require travel domestically and internationally as needed for supplier visits and program requirements.
• Employment eligibility verification and background checks are required for this position.
• This position is subject to Rocket Lab's standard employment policies and practices.