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Director of Supply Chain

Ursa Major was founded to address a critical shortfall in the U.S. industrial base and bring a new model to aerospace and defense systems: we design and manufacture the world’s leading propulsion systems for space, hypersonic applications, and missile systems. 

Our products and technologies require an extraordinary team – a team that will mold tomorrow’s technologies while deploying today’s best. We are an intrinsically motivated team that has a passion for solving problems and empowering each other every day to develop our skills, knowing that there is always room for growth.

Our Supply Chain is a critical function across all products. We are challenging the vertically integrated launch industry by providing on-time, high performing propulsion products that create value faster for our customers. We do this with a small, but highly effective team with a leader who creates opportunities where others won’t or can’t. We need someone who can utilize modern technology to scale from dozens of propulsion products to thousands. This individual will need to roll up their sleeves to understand Ursa’s current processes while detailing an action-oriented path forward. We need a builder.

 

Responsibilities           

  • Lead, manage, and grow a high-performing team of Supplier Development, Procurement, and Logistics professionals
  • Provide exceptional levels of support for each of Ursa’s Integrated Product Teams. Hold yourself and your team accountable for creating Supply Chain solutions and driving results.
  • Measure and Improve KPIs for Safety, Quality, On Time Delivery, and Cost.
  • Own the supplier qualification, and requirements flow downs to ensure flawless AS9100, FAR, and DFARS compliance.
  • Design and implement systems, processes, and software that enable efficient hardware procurement from early development through full-rate production.
  • Report on Supply Chain strategy and execution to the C-Suite and the Board of Directors as needed. Professional results are expected.

 

Job Focus Areas and Expectations    

  • Capability to grow, develop, and lead a world-class Supply Chain team by establishing high trust, building relationships, setting clear expectations and recruiting top talent.
  • Conduct regular team meetings to communicate your vision, align actions, manage expectations, and review results.
  • Identify and onboard new suppliers for critical hardware procurement and contracted services.
  • Secure the continuity of supply at the best cost by cultivating supplier relationships.
  • Create KPI dashboards to measure supplier performance KPIs. Use them to detect supply chain problems early and drive the necessary improvements. Deploy technology solutions and digital tools to achieve better results with less overhead.
  • Establish standard work for communicating forecasted demand to the supply base. Negotiate long-term procurement agreements when appropriate to best control delivery schedules and total cost.
  • Identify critical supply chain risks then create effective mitigations strategies and drive them to completion. Effectively communicate these risks and mitigations to Leadership.
  • Research commodity and market trends then distill those learnings into actionable plans to reduce risk and capitalize on opportunity.
  • Identify and implement strategies and improvement initiatives to increase speed to market, improve quality, and result in a lower total cost.
  • Develop agile inventory control practices, methods, tools & processes to ensure 100% component Serial Number traceability in every product shipped, streamlined material workflow, and unthrottled manufacturing.
  • Optimize the logistics function to ensure timely product deliveries without damage and at optimal cost.
  • Create the Standard Operating Procedure for configuring products within an ERP environment to unlock MRP automation through reordering triggers.
  • Create, implement, and train the company on procurement policies and procedures.
  • Ability to define concrete strategies and plans in a highly ambiguous environment.
  • Bias for action and results with focus and a sense of urgency.
  • Strong ability to influence key stakeholders both internally and externally.
  • Understands best practices and remain aware of the latest industry trends.

 

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, science or accounting with 10+ years of high growth Supply Chain experience.
  • Previous experience in leading supplier management, purchasing, logistics & inventory control required.
  • At least 5+ years’ experience in operations and production within a start-up or fast-moving company with both production and new development experience.
  • Direct leadership and management experience in a continuously evolving, product focused environment.
  • Consistent growth in career focused on exceeding expectations and building amazing teams.

 

Preferred Qualifications          

  • Master’s Degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, or MBA is desired
  • Certification in APICS/ASCM, NAPM, and/or LSSBB is desirable
  • Experience with ERP scaling and development
  • Experience with Odoo and/or Palantir’ Foundry software

 

Colorado law requires us to tell you the base compensation range of this role, which is $185,000 - $230,000, determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The salary range for this role is intentionally wide as we are evaluating individuals based on their unique experience and abilities to fit our needs. Most importantly, we are excited to meet you, and see if you are a great fit for our team. What we can’t quantify for you are the exciting challenges, supportive team, and amazing culture we enjoy. Click here for more information about our awesome benefits.

 

Benefits Include:

  • Unlimited PTO - Vacation, Sick, Personal, and Bereavement
  • Paid Parental and Adoptive Leave
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Tax Advantage Accounts (HSA/FSA)
  • Employer Paid Short and Long Term Disability, Basic Life, AD&D
  • Additional Benefit Options Including Voluntary Life and Emergency Medical Transport
  • EAP Program
  • Retirement Savings Plan - Traditional 401(k) and a Roth 401(k)
  • Equity Grants in the Company

 


NOTE: Research suggests that women and BIPOC individuals may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage anyone who believes they have the skills and the drive necessary to succeed here to apply for this role.
 
US CITIZENSHIP, PERMANENT RESIDENCY, REFUGEE OR ASYLUM STATUS IS REQUIRED.
 
We’re an equal-opportunity employer. You will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
 
No outside recruiters, please.
 
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Average salary estimate

$207500 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$185000K
$230000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Director of Supply Chain, Ursa Major

Ursa Major is on the lookout for a dynamic Director of Supply Chain to join our energetic team in Berthoud, CO. As a leader in aerospace and defense systems, we’re revolutionizing propulsion technologies for space, hypersonic applications, and missile systems. In this pivotal role, you will spearhead a small yet impactful team tasked with leveraging modern technology to scale our operations, guiding us from dozens to thousands of propulsion products. We pride ourselves on being a close-knit, motivated team that thrives on problem-solving and continuous growth. Your day-to-day will involve managing supplier development, procurement, and logistics to ensure our Integrated Product Teams receive top-notch support while maintaining high KPIs across safety, quality, and cost. Your strategic vision will be essential as you develop compliant processes that captivate our customers and address the unique challenges of our industry. You’ll report directly to our C-Suite and Board, driving supply chain strategy and ensuring we meet or exceed standards like AS9100, FAR, and DFARS. With responsibilities that include optimizing logistics, securing supplier relationships, executing improvement initiatives, and developing agile inventory controls, your leadership will pave the way for our mission. Join us at Ursa Major, where your contributions will not only influence the supply chain landscape but also shape the future of aerospace technology.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Director of Supply Chain Role at Ursa Major
What are the primary responsibilities of the Director of Supply Chain at Ursa Major?

The Director of Supply Chain at Ursa Major is primarily responsible for leading and managing a high-performing team in supplier development, procurement, and logistics. This includes driving KPIs for safety, quality, on-time delivery, and cost while ensuring compliance with industry standards such as AS9100, FAR, and DFARS. You will also implement systems and processes for efficient hardware procurement and report supply chain strategies to the executive team.

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What qualifications are required for the Director of Supply Chain role at Ursa Major?

Candidates for the Director of Supply Chain position at Ursa Major should possess a Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, science, or accounting, along with 10+ years of high-growth supply chain experience. Leadership experience in supplier management and logistics is necessary, with at least five years in operations within a fast-paced environment. Preferred qualifications include a Master’s Degree and certifications in supply chain management.

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How does the Director of Supply Chain contribute to Ursa Major's mission?

The Director of Supply Chain plays a crucial role in Ursa Major's mission by ensuring timely and efficient operations that support our innovative propulsion systems. By utilizing modern technologies to scale production and implement agile inventory control practices, this leadership position directly impacts the company’s ability to meet customer demands and stay competitive in the aerospace sector.

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What skills are essential for the Director of Supply Chain at Ursa Major?

Essential skills for the Director of Supply Chain at Ursa Major include strong leadership and management capabilities, deep knowledge of supply chain processes, and the ability to develop talent and build relationships. Additionally, the ability to navigate a fast-paced, ambiguous environment with a focus on results and exceptional communication skills are vital for success in this role.

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What opportunities for team development does the Director of Supply Chain have at Ursa Major?

The Director of Supply Chain at Ursa Major has the opportunity to grow and develop a world-class team by establishing high trust, setting clear expectations, and recruiting top talent. Regular team meetings and the creation of an empowering work environment will help foster team collaboration and innovation, enabling continuous improvement.

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Common Interview Questions for Director of Supply Chain
Can you describe your experience with supply chain management in a high-growth environment?

In discussing my experience, I would focus on specific examples where I led initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. It's important to showcase how I adapted strategies in a rapidly changing environment and share measurable outcomes from those efforts.

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How do you measure supplier performance and drive improvements?

I typically use key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess supplier performance, such as quality metrics, delivery times, and cost-effectiveness. I believe in regular reviews and open communication to discuss performance with suppliers and collaboratively identify improvement areas.

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What strategies have you implemented to manage procurement processes effectively?

I prioritize automation and clear communication within the procurement team to streamline processes. By establishing standardized procedures and utilizing software tools, I ensure transparency and efficiency throughout the procurement cycle, enabling faster decision-making.

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How have you handled challenges related to logistics and inventory control?

Handling logistics challenges involves close coordination with all teams, analyzing paths of delivery, and real-time inventory status. I emphasize proactive risk assessments and building good supplier relationships to ensure continuity and mitigate disruptions.

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Describe your leadership style and how it has affected your team.

My leadership style is collaborative and transparent. I encourage open dialogue and seek input from my team which fosters trust and empowers them. This approach has led to higher engagement and accountability among team members, resulting in improved performance.

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What tools and technologies do you find essential in supply chain management?

I consider ERP systems essential for efficient supply chain management as they integrate various functions. Tools for data analytics also play a crucial role in decision-making. I constantly seek to leverage technology to enhance visibility and efficiency in supply chain operations.

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How do you ensure compliance with industry standards in supply chain processes?

I ensure compliance by implementing systematic checks at every stage of the supply chain. This includes regular training sessions for the team and thorough documentation to align with standards like AS9100. I also encourage audits and reviews to maintain high quality and compliance levels.

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Can you share an example of how you reduced costs in a previous role?

I once negotiated long-term contracts with key suppliers, which allowed for better pricing and reduced procurement costs significantly. Additionally, I introduced process improvements that cut down waste and optimized inventory levels, resulting in substantial savings.

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How do you approach risk management in supply chain operations?

I approach risk management by first identifying potential risks in the supply chain. Half the battle lies in forecasting and having contingency plans. Regular risk assessments and engaging with suppliers to establish joint risk strategies also contribute to effective risk management.

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What is your experience with supplier relationship management?

Managing supplier relationships is about building strong partnerships based on trust and mutual benefits. I focus on clear communication, regular performance reviews, and developing long-term strategies that align our goals with those of our suppliers, enhancing overall performance.

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 23, 2025

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