Director Of External Manufacturing & Sourcing (Ecommerce)

TL;DR

Director of External Manufacturing & Sourcing (Ecommerce): Leading U.S.-based production readiness, cost validation, and supplier execution across the product lifecycle with an accent on bridging design intent and manufacturing reality. Focus on building scalable processes for cost engineering, optimizing the North American manufacturing ecosystem, and driving accountability within the China-based sourcing function.

Location: Must be based in or able to commute to Norwalk, CT (Hybrid: 3 days in-office)

Company

A leading e-commerce company and top Amazon U.S. seller known for the Gorilla Grip brand, focused on creating high-quality, data-driven products.

What you will do

• Own U.S.-side production readiness and validate product specifications for manufacturability and cost feasibility.
• Develop should-cost frameworks and BOM breakdowns to ensure cost realism upstream.
• Build and manage a North American external manufacturing ecosystem for finishing, packaging, and value-add operations.
• Provide strategic direction to the China Sourcing team to ensure alignment with production and cost objectives.
• Drive go/no-go discipline for mass production launches by surfacing risks and ensuring clear decision-making.
• Build scalable, repeatable processes for supplier evaluation, cost validation, and launch gate management.

Requirements

• 10+ years of leadership experience in external manufacturing, sourcing, production, or cost engineering.
• Deep expertise in cost structures, including BOM construction, should-cost modeling, and process economics.
• Proven track record of translating design intent into manufacturable, cost-realistic outcomes.
• Experience working directly with China-based manufacturers with strong cultural fluency.
• Strong commercial and operational judgment with the ability to present to executive leadership.
• Must be able to work from the Norwalk, CT office 3 days per week (Mon-Wed).

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Generous paid time off, holidays, and a birthday day off.
• Paid parental leave and mental health resources.
• Professional development opportunities and lifestyle benefits like commuter assistance.
• Fast-paced, collaborative environment with free snacks and team events.