Senior Strategic Sourcing Manager, CapEx

The Senior Strategic Sourcing Manager at Anduril Industries is responsible for managing all aspects of cap-ex procurement, developing category strategies focused on cost, quality, and supply chain resilience. This includes leading the sourcing process, negotiating key agreements with suppliers, and establishing strong relationships while driving technical direction across commodities.

Candidates for the Senior Strategic Sourcing Manager role at Anduril Industries should possess a Bachelor's degree in law, supply chain, or a related field, along with at least 5 years of relevant category management experience. Additional experience in defense, aerospace, or a similar industry is preferred, alongside the ability to travel and relocate if necessary.

Anduril Industries is committed to the professional development of its employees. Senior Strategic Sourcing Managers will have access to a development stipend, allowing them to pursue further education and training opportunities. This dedication to growth ensures that all Anduril team members have the tools they need to excel in their careers.

At Anduril, cap-ex procurement follows a structured sourcing process led by the Senior Strategic Sourcing Manager. This includes issuing RFIs/RFQs/RFPs, performing detailed cost analyses, and maintaining strong supplier relationships to ensure continuity of supply while managing risk and negotiating costs effectively.

The company culture at Anduril Industries is collaborative and innovation-driven. Senior Strategic Sourcing Managers work closely with cross-functional teams and have opportunities to influence product strategy. The supportive environment values diverse perspectives and encourages team members to contribute ideas freely.

In crafting a category strategy for sourcing, I start by understanding the specific needs of the organization and the market landscape. This includes identifying potential suppliers, analyzing cost structures, and ensuring alignment with both current and future business objectives. Collaboration with engineering teams is also vital here.

Evaluating suppliers involves looking at various criteria such as quality, cost, reliability, and capability to meet our technical requirements. I typically conduct a detailed assessment that includes visiting suppliers, conducting audits, and analyzing their past performance metrics.

I have extensive experience negotiating supplier agreements where I focus on achieving favorable terms while building a long-term partnership. My strategy includes understanding the supplier's needs, employing a collaborative mindset, and being prepared with data-driven insights to create win-win scenarios.

Risk management in my sourcing strategy involves identifying potential risks related to supply continuity, quality, and compliance. I prioritize diversifying the supplier base, establishing backup suppliers, and maintaining strong communication channels to proactively address issues before they escalate.

I once led a challenging sourcing project that involved a complete redesign of components for a high-tech product. Through close collaboration with engineering, clear communication with suppliers, and innovative problem-solving strategies, we successfully sourced new materials that improved product quality while reducing costs.

I utilize various tools and software for data analysis, including Excel for financial modeling, sourcing analytics platforms, and ERP systems that help evaluate supplier performance and cost breakdowns. These tools assist in making informed decisions based on Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analyses.

Ensuring quality starts at the supplier selection stage and continues throughout the relationship. I implement stringent evaluation processes, conduct regular performance reviews, and maintain open lines of communication to address quality concerns promptly.

To cultivate strong supplier relationships, I prioritize transparency and communication, consistently engage in dialogue to understand their challenges, and work collaboratively on solutions. I also value their input on product development, fostering a sense of partnership.

I stay current on industry trends by actively participating in sourcing forums, attending conferences, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals in the field. This ongoing education helps inform my strategies and keeps the organization competitive.

Handling conflicts during the sourcing process requires diplomacy and effective negotiation skills. I focus on understanding differing perspectives, identifying common goals, and facilitating discussions to arrive at mutually beneficial outcomes, ensuring that all parties feel heard and valued.