Propulsion, Power, and ECLSS Supply Chain Leader

The Propulsion, Power, and ECLSS Supply Chain Leader at Vast is responsible for orchestrating the relationship between engineering and suppliers, overseeing roadmap reviews, and ensuring that Vast’s unique requirements are met in terms of technology and quality. This role includes working with various departments to develop and manage an optimized supply base, mentoring a sourcing organization, and driving improvements in cost and delivery. Essentially, you’ll be the go-to expert ensuring all components are in place for our ambitious space missions.

To qualify for the Propulsion, Power, and ECLSS Supply Chain Leader position at Vast, you need a Bachelor of Science degree in Business or Engineering, along with at least 10 years of relevant experience in Supply Chain, Sourcing, or Engineering. Project management skills and a deep understanding of the manufacturing and quality processes related to Propulsion and Components are crucial. Preferred experience includes a Master's Degree and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

As a Propulsion, Power, and ECLSS Supply Chain Leader at Vast, you'll work in a dynamic and high-stress environment where multiple projects run simultaneously. Flexibility is key, as you’ll need to adapt to changes quickly while actively contributing to our innovative mission. Collaboration is at the heart of our operations, so you'll find yourself surrounded by a team of passionate individuals all working toward the shared goal of redefining space habitation.

Vast is committed to the professional growth of all employees, including the Propulsion, Power, and ECLSS Supply Chain Leader. The company encourages long-term organizational design, team building, and continuous training. By mentoring and leading your team effectively, you will also create opportunities for their growth while ensuring our supply chain operations run smoothly and efficiently.

The Propulsion, Power, and ECLSS Supply Chain Leader role at Vast may require occasional travel of up to 30% of the time. This travel is essential for collaborating with suppliers and ensuring the successful execution of mission milestones. Candidates should be prepared to travel as needed while balancing the demands of their position.

To answer this question, highlight specific achievements in previous roles that demonstrate your skills in supply chain management. Discuss how your background in sourcing and engineering aligns with Vast's objectives and how you foresee leveraging those skills in managing the supply chain for propulsion and ECLSS systems effectively.

When preparing to answer this question, focus on providing a specific example where you identified a bottleneck in supply chain operations and implemented a successful solution. Share measurable outcomes and how your actions positively impacted project timelines and costs to demonstrate your value as a leader.

Discuss your approach to mentorship and fostering growth within your team. Highlight how you create individualized development plans, encourage knowledge sharing, and provide opportunities for challenging projects. Emphasize your commitment to building a strong, cohesive team that delivers outstanding results.

Talk about how you actively engage with industry publications, attend conferences, and network with professionals in the field. Mention any tools or resources you find helpful in staying informed about market trends and technological advancements, showcasing your dedication to continuous learning.

Articulate an experience where you successfully managed competing priorities and how you communicated with stakeholders. Emphasize your time management techniques and how you ensured quality standards were maintained while meeting deadlines.

Reflect on key performance indicators like supplier performance, cost savings, project completion timelines, and overall team satisfaction. Define success by targeting the alignment of the supply chain strategy with the company’s long-term objectives in space exploration.

Discuss the criteria you employ to assess supplier performance, such as quality, delivery timelines, cost structures, and adaptability. Highlight how you utilize data analytics to inform decisions and continually improve supplier partnerships.

Describe your proactive approach to communication with the supplier. Discuss how you would investigate the root cause of the delay and work collaboratively with the supplier to develop a recovery plan while ensuring transparency with internal stakeholders.

Explain how cross-department collaboration is essential for aligning supply chain initiatives with engineering, manufacturing, and quality goals. Provide examples of how such collaboration has led to successful project outcomes.

This is your opportunity to showcase your alignment with Vast’s mission. Speak about your passion for space exploration, your admiration for the company’s innovative approach, and how your skills can contribute to achieving Vast’s goals while working in a rewarding environment.