We are looking for a Vendor Manager to own the end-to-end relationship with our component and sub-system vendors - starting with Optics suppliers and expanding to future strategic partners.
This is not a buyer role and not a narrow technical position. You will be the single point of accountability between our company and each vendor: commercial governance, supply continuity, quality oversight, NPI execution, and RMA management - all in one role.
You will work closely with Engineering & Quality, Global Supply Chain, and Planning, and report to the Director of Global Supply Chain.
What You'll Do
Vendor Onboarding
Lead end-to-end onboarding of new vendors - technical qualification, internal and external commercial setup, quality baseline, and NPI readiness
Coordinate qualification audits (PPAP/FAI) and production readiness reviews before first shipment
Commercial Management
Own pricing, capacity commitments, payment terms, and contracts for each managed vendor
Drive quarterly business reviews (QBRs); act as the primary escalation point for commercial disputes and supply deviations
Maintain alternative source qualifications and business continuity plans
Forecast, Supply & Delivery
Receive MPS / forecast from planning and drive delivery execution with vendors against committed timelines
Track delivery performance; proactively surface shortages and capacity issues with mitigation options
Manage vendor liability: consigned inventory, write-off decisions, aging stock
Quality & Technical Governance
Own vendor quality KPIs (FPY, DPPM, corrective action closure); coordinate resolution between vendor, Engineering, and Quality
Track engineering changes (PCN) and manage vendor NPI participation across EVT, DVT, and PVT builds
RMA & Field Returns
Manage field returns to vendor: return authorization, failure analysis coordination, and replacement shipment tracking
Ensure 8D root cause closure and feed learnings back into production.
Requirements: 10+ years in vendor management, strategic sourcing, or supply chain in a hardware technology company
Proven track record managing vendors end-to-end - commercial, technical, quality, and supply - simultaneously
Background in networking, optical, or high-speed electronic components; Optics / photonics experience is a strong advantage
Hands-on with NPI cycles: qualification, EVT/DVT/PVT, PCN management
Contract negotiation experience: supply agreements, pricing frameworks, capacity commitments
Commercial acumen - able to negotiate and manage vendor P&L impact
Engineering literacy - reads specs, engages credibly with engineering teams
Data-driven - delivery data, quality metrics, and cost analysis drive decisions
Cross-functional influencer - earns trust across Engineering, SC, Product, and Finance
Structured communicator - clear in escalation forums and cross-functional reviews
ERP familiarity (SAP, Priority, or equivalent).
This position is open to all candidates.