Global Sourcing Manager (defense Procurement)

Applied Intuition Applied Intuition · Robotics · Washington, DC · Finance

This role is for a Global Sourcing Manager in Defense Procurement, focusing on sourcing high-performance compute, edge-compute modules, and specialized sensors for autonomous defense platforms. It requires expertise in FAR, DFARS, and DCMA audits, and involves strategic sourcing, deal structuring, and supplier relationship management within the defense industry. While the company works with AI and physical AI, this specific role is in procurement and supply chain management, not direct AI/ML development.

What you'd actually do

  1. Lead strategic sourcing for the "Physical AI" stack, including high-performance GPU clusters, edge-compute modules, and specialized sensors (LiDAR, thermal, and radio) required for autonomous defense platforms
  2. Partner with Engineering from the "breadboard" prototyping phase to ensure that selected hardware components meet the SWaP-C (Size, Weight, Power, and Cost) requirements of ruggedized defense
  3. Develop processes in compliance with FAR, DFARS, and corporate policies
  4. Ensure readiness and compliance for DCMA Purchasing System Reviews (CPSR)
  5. Build strong relationships while negotiating with industry-leading suppliers

Skills

Required

  • 10+ years in strategic sourcing, commodity management, global supply management, or similar field
  • 2+ years leading Physical AI or Robotics Commodity Procurement: Proven experience sourcing high-performance compute (GPUs/FPGA), edge-processing units, or advanced sensing suites (LiDAR, Radar, EO/IR).
  • Expertise with FAR, DFARS, DCMA audits, and CPSR
  • Strong sense of urgency and a strategic mindset
  • Insatiable curiosity and a keen attention to detail
  • Highly efficient executive-level communication skills
  • Exceptional negotiation skills
  • Ability to cut through ambiguity to make concrete and sound decisions
  • Thorough understanding of complex contract structures
  • Ability to rapidly prioritize and execute in a fast-paced environment
  • Experience in DoD, aerospace, and/or defense contracting environments
  • Bachelor’s Degree in supply chain, finance, business, or similar field

Nice to have

  • MBA
  • Experience with the Google suite of tools (e.g. Google Sheets, Google Docs)
  • Experience using Slack on a professional level
  • Experience working in a rapidly evolving startup environment

What the JD emphasized

  • FAR, DFARS, and corporate policies
  • DCMA Purchasing System Reviews (CPSR)
  • Physical AI or Robotics Commodity Procurement
  • high-performance compute (GPUs/FPGA), edge-processing units, or advanced sensing suites (LiDAR, Radar, EO/IR)
  • DoD, aerospace, and/or defense contracting environments