Manager, Procurement & Strategic Partnerships (Automotive)

TL;DR

Manager, Procurement & Strategic Partnerships (Automotive): Leading global sourcing strategies and procurement for chassis components with an accent on commercial negotiations and supply chain risk mitigation. Focus on building high-performing teams, optimizing vehicle margin targets, and maintaining automotive PPAP standards.

Location: Hybrid (Foster City, CA)

Company

Zoox is a company developing autonomous vehicle technology for urban environments.

What you will do

• Build, scale, and mentor a high-performing procurement team while ensuring compliance and professional ethics.
• Lead end-to-end RFI/RFQ/RFP processes and develop long-term global sourcing strategies for chassis components.
• Execute complex negotiations for master supply agreements and production statements of work to secure optimal pricing.
• Partner with Engineering and Finance to establish 3–5 year technology and costing roadmaps.
• Map the supply chain and utilize data analysis to mitigate risks and maintain automotive PPAP standards.

Requirements

• 10+ years of procurement or commodity management experience in automotive chassis, vehicle dynamics, or heavy industrial manufacturing.
• 3+ years of experience directly managing and mentoring a team of purchasing professionals.
• Knowledge of chassis product development, vehicle dynamics, and advanced manufacturing processes (forging, casting, machining).
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets for financial forecasting and bid leveling.
• Strong communication and influence skills to align cross-functional stakeholders.
• Must be based in or able to work from Foster City, CA (Hybrid)