Subcontracts Manager

About The Role

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

The Supply Chain team is responsible for the flow of all materials, products, and components through the business. With many of our own products functioning as critical components to our own and our customers’ missions, the Supply Chain team has a direct impact on the success of our rocket and satellite programs. They set up the assembly kits that enables our technicians to put together our Electron & Neutron rockets, manage inventory, look after shipping and receiving, manage direct and indirect procurement, and inspect and ensure that all of our materials and products are compliant and up to standard. They are the chain that links our teams together, and are critical to our success.

Subcontracts Manager

Based onsite at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA the Subcontracts Manager will focus on major satellite programs. In this role, you will perform a variety of supply chain functions, including supplier development, requirement solicitations, contract award, and post-award management. You will also have the opportunity to work in an energetic, collaborative environment that supports one of the fastest growing companies in the satellite industry. You will be a catalyst for effective subcontract execution in alignment with program objectives.

• You will own all sourcing and procurement aspects including strategy, cost and schedule for major satellite subcomponents. This means being responsible for issuing RFQs/RFPs, negotiating contract proposals, and managing the execution of any supplier agreement.
• You will develop sourcing and subcontracting strategies that meet program requirements while mitigating supply risks.
• You will manage global supply chain execution and ensure on-cost, on-quality, and on-time delivery of critical satellite components.
• You will monitor engineering design activity and guide supplier selection and performance based on requirements, specifications, and capabilities.
• You will operate as an external representative of Rocket Lab and manage respective supplier relationships.
• You will conduct supplier performance management including scorecards, quarterly business reviews and dispute resolution.
• You will develop and execute mitigation plans to address supplier risks and issues.
• You will negotiate pricing with suppliers on a first principles basis to achieve best in class cost structures.
• You will manage internal communications on supply, cost, and quality with key stakeholders and leadership.
• You will identify and implement cost reduction opportunities to continuously drive value for the business.

You'll bring these qualifications:

• 8+ years of experience in supply chain management or commodity management and a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of experience (12+ years of work experience)
• Excellent negotiator with experience in written contractual vehicles (Cost Plus, Firm Fixed Price etc.)
• Experience working with technical requirements of procured hardware and services including contractual flow downs, Statement of Work (SOW), and/or technical specification review

These qualifications would be nice to have:

• MBA or Technical master’s degree
• Experience in aerospace, automotive manufacturing, or highly technical field
• Experience in rapid growth environment with constantly shifting priorities or deliverables
• Exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively and efficiently
• Highly self-motivated, able to learn quickly and maintain the highest levels of quality and integrity
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities to executive level audiences
• Team oriented, strong ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment and to multiple deadlines

What to expect:

• We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible.
• We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.