Director of Strategic Sourcing

About the role

Reports to: VP of Operations
At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, Raytheon, and the US DoD, among others, and power the work of leading research institutions.

What You'll Do

• Strategic Sourcing - Develop and execute the company's long-term sourcing and supply chain strategy, lead strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, make-versus-buy decisions, and supplier development initiatives.
• Supplier Management & Negotiation - Monitor supply market conditions, identify and mitigate supply chain risks, lead high-stakes supplier negotiations, drive supplier performance improvement, and onboard and develop suppliers.
• Operations & Logistics - Own procurement operations, purchasing controls, logistics strategy, inventory policy, import/export coordination, and transportation planning, develop operational dashboards and KPIs, and drive continuous improvement.
• People & Leadership - Build and develop the sourcing, procurement, and logistics team, develop future leaders, foster a culture of ownership, collaboration, and accountability, and serve as a trusted strategic partner to executive leadership.

What You’ll Bring

• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience across supply chain, sourcing, procurement, logistics, or operations.
• Demonstrated experience building and developing teams and managers.
• Strong understanding of ERP systems, supplier management, inventory optimization, and operational metrics.
• Proven ability to build and use data to drive sourcing decisions and report to leadership.
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing.
• Familiarity with optical systems, precision hardware, or electromechanical components (preferred).
• Bachelor's degree required; MBA or advanced technical degree a plus.
• CPSM, CPIM, or equivalent certification is a plus.

Who You Are

• You think and operate at multiple altitudes — equally comfortable setting strategy and diving into operational details to solve a critical issue.
• You build teams and develop people as deliberately as you build supplier relationships.
• You move with urgency and make decisions with conviction, even in ambiguous situations.
• You communicate clearly and build trust quickly — with suppliers, engineers, and executives alike.
• You value ownership, curiosity, and collaboration over hierarchy and bureaucracy.

Why You'll Love It

• Be part of a mission-driven company helping shape the future of space infrastructure.
• Work on technically complex, high-visibility programs where your sourcing decisions have real impact.
• Join a lean, high-performance team where you’ll have the autonomy to build and the authority to execute.
• Competitive salary, equity opportunities, and comprehensive benefits.