Director, Strategic Sourcing – Contract Manufacturer

Cerebras Systems builds the world's largest AI chip, 56 times larger than GPUs. Our novel wafer-scale architecture provides the AI compute power of dozens of GPUs on a single chip, with the programming simplicity of a single device. This approach allows Cerebras to deliver industry-leading training and inference speeds and empowers machine learning users to effortlessly run large-scale ML applications, without the hassle of managing hundreds of GPUs or TPUs. Cerebras' current customers include top model labs, global enterprises, and cutting-edge AI-native startups. OpenAI recently announced a multi-year partnership with Cerebras , to deploy 750 megawatts of scale, transforming key workloads with ultra high-speed inference. Thanks to the groundbreaking wafer-scale architecture, Cerebras Inference offers the fastest Generative AI inference solution in the world, over 10 times faster than GPU-based hyperscale cloud inference services. This order of magnitude increase in speed is transforming the user experience of AI applications, unlocking real-time iteration and increasing intelligence via additional agentic computation. Job Summary The Director of Strategic Sourcing for Contract Manufacturers is responsible for leading the development and execution of global sourcing strategies for outsourced manufacturing services. This role drives cost optimization, supplier performance, and risk management across the contract manufacturing supply base, ensuring alignment with business objectives and operational excellence. Key Responsibilities Area Responsibilities Strategic Leadership Develop and implement global sourcing strategies for contract manufacturers, including EMS providers, to support business growth and cost objectives. Supplier Relationship Management Build and maintain strategic partnerships with key contract manufacturers; lead negotiations for contracts, pricing, and service level agreements. Cost Value Optimization Drive cost reduction and value creation initiatives through should-cost modeling, total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis, and continuous improvement programs. Risk Compliance Identify and mitigate supply chain risks; ensure compliance with quality, ethical, and regulatory standards across all contract manufacturers. Cross-functional Alignment Collaborate with engineering, operations, quality, and finance teams to align sourcing strategies with product development, production, and business goals. Market Industry Intelligence Monitor industry trends, technological advancements, and geopolitical factors impacting contract manufacturing; provide strategic recommendations to leadership. Performance Metrics Establish and track KPIs for supplier performance, cost savings, and supply chain efficiency; report progress to executive leadership. Qualifications Skills Requirement Details Education Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field; MBA or advanced degree strongly preferred. Experience 10+ years in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management, with at least 5 years in contract manufacturing or EMS. Industry Knowledge Deep understanding of contract manufacturing processes, global supply chain dynamics, and electronics industry trends. Leadership Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams, managing global suppliers, and driving significant cost savings. Negotiation Communication Exceptional negotiation, stakeholder management, and executive presentation skills. Tools Systems Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), spend analytics, and advanced Excel. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Year-over-year cost savings and value creation from contract manufacturing spend Supplier performance scores (quality, delivery, cost, innovation) Supply chain risk mitigation and business continuity planning effectiveness Stakeholder satisfaction and alignment with business objectives Why This Role Matters This leadership position ... (truncated, view full listing at source)