Strategic Sourcing Manager, Sensors & Radar

The Strategic Sourcing Manager at Anduril Industries is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies for sensors and radar systems. This includes leading the RFI/RFQ/RFP process, managing supplier relationships, conducting detailed cost analysis, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure that quality and delivery standards are met. Additionally, the role involves negotiating agreements to secure competitive pricing and performance metrics, ensuring a robust supply chain.

To be considered for the Strategic Sourcing Manager position at Anduril Industries, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, engineering, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of experience in supply chain category management, particularly in sensors or radar manufacturing, is essential. Familiarity with total cost of ownership analysis and strategic thinking in commodity management is also advantageous.

Success as a Strategic Sourcing Manager at Anduril Industries hinges on effective communication and collaboration with engineering and cross-functional teams. It requires a strategic mindset, strong analytical skills, and the ability to influence stakeholders to align on common goals. Additionally, managing supplier relationships with a focus on performance and continuous improvement is vital for long-term success in this role.

At Anduril Industries, you can expect a dynamic and innovative company culture that promotes collaboration and diversity. The organization values teams made up of talented individuals from various backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels encouraged to bring their unique perspectives to the table. As a Strategic Sourcing Manager, you’ll be part of a team dedicated to addressing real-world challenges in the defense sector.

Anduril Industries is committed to the professional growth of its employees. As a Strategic Sourcing Manager, you can take advantage of various career development initiatives such as professional development stipends, mentorship programs, and opportunities for attending industry conferences. The company actively encourages employees to pursue continuous learning and skill enhancement to further advance their careers.

When answering this question, provide detailed examples of your previous work in sourcing components for sensors or radar systems. Highlight specific strategies you've employed, such as cost-reduction initiatives or successful negotiations with suppliers. Emphasize how your efforts have contributed to project successes and the overall supply chain.

Discuss your methodology for building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers. Mention the importance of communication, regular performance reviews, and collaboration on continuous improvement initiatives. Provide examples of how you've effectively managed challenges with suppliers while ensuring reliability and quality.

Focus on specific strategies you have successfully employed in previous roles. You may want to detail your experience with total cost of ownership analysis, negotiating better agreements, or exploring alternative supplier options. Be sure to illustrate how these strategies balanced performance metrics and quality standards.

Offer a clear example of a time when your persuasive skills were crucial in rallying teams toward a common goal. Describe the context, the challenges faced, and the successful outcome. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and solve problems collaboratively.

Be prepared to discuss key lessons and how they have shaped your approach to sourcing and procurement. Focus on how these experiences have made you a more effective strategic thinker and decision-maker in your field, particularly within the realm of advanced technology and defense environments.

Explain your approach to conflict resolution, emphasizing your focus on collaboration and understanding multiple perspectives. Provide examples of how you've successfully navigated such situations in the past, and how you ultimately worked toward mutually beneficial outcomes.

Discuss your familiarity with the RFI/RFQ/RFP processes, explaining how you've managed them in past roles. Illustrate your understanding of best practices in drafting requests and evaluating responses to ensure that the best suppliers are selected.

Share details of a specific procurement negotiation where you achieved significant benefits for your organization. Discuss your preparation, negotiation tactics, and the outcome to demonstrate your skillset and effectiveness in securing favorable terms.

Emphasize the ways you continuously educate yourself about the industry, whether through professional organizations, workshops, webinars, or academic publications. Highlight your proactive approach in applying this knowledge to improve sourcing strategies.

Mention the specific tools and software that you have utilized in past roles, like ERP systems, sourcing software, or data analysis tools. Discuss how these technologies have aided your decision-making processes and improved sourcing efficiency.