Strategic Sourcing Manager – Electronics

About the role

Shield AI is seeking a Strategic Sourcing Manager to lead global sourcing strategy for electronic and electromechanical components, including PCBA, harnesses, connectors, sensors, and embedded systems. The role partners with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and program teams to ensure supply continuity, cost competitiveness, and a robust supplier base for defense and aerospace products.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute long‑term sourcing strategies, balancing cost, technology, capacity, and risk across global supply chains.
• Lead make‑vs‑buy analyses, business cases, and total cost of ownership assessments to mitigate single‑source risk.
• Identify, qualify, and develop strategic suppliers capable of supporting high‑mix, low‑to‑medium volume aerospace and defense production.
• Negotiate long‑term agreements, conduct supplier performance reviews, and drive cost‑reduction initiatives.
• Collaborate with engineering for early supplier involvement during product development and NPI phases.
• Partner with finance and legal to structure commercial terms and ensure compliance with DFARS, ITAR, and export regulations.
• Lead cost modeling, benchmarking, and should‑cost analysis using ERP/MRP and analytics tools.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Electrical Engineering, Business or related field (Master’s preferred) or equivalent experience.
• 7+ years of strategic sourcing or supply chain experience focused on electronics, PCBA, electromechanical or mechanical commodities, preferably in defense or aerospace.
• Proven track record in supplier negotiations, long‑term contract management, and cost‑reduction initiatives.
• Strong understanding of AS9100 compliance, first‑article inspection (FAI), and audit readiness.

Required skills

• PCB fabrication and SMT assembly knowledge.
• Harness production and connector integration.
• ERP/MRP systems for spend visibility and material forecasting.
• Cost modeling, benchmarking, and should‑cost analysis.
• Familiarity with DFARS, ITAR, and export regulation compliance.