Staff Global Supply Manager

Aurora Innovation Aurora Innovation · Robotics · Mountain View, CA · Purchasing

This role is for a Staff Global Supply Manager at Aurora Innovation, focusing on procurement for enterprise software, SaaS, cloud services, and contingent workforce. The position involves leading end-to-end procurement, driving sourcing strategies, establishing global sourcing strategies, and collaborating with various internal teams. The role requires strong analytical and communication skills, with experience in fast-paced tech environments. Desirable qualifications include experience with ERP/procurement tools and contingent labor programs, particularly in AV or robotics.

What you'd actually do

  1. Lead end-to-end procurement for enterprise software, SaaS, and cloud services, negotiating complex agreements to secure best-in-class developer tools while protecting Aurora.
  2. Drive sourcing strategies for Contingent Workforce and AV Operations, managing partners who support testing and mission-critical hardware deployments.
  3. Establish global sourcing strategies balancing cost, risk, and speed. Develop "should-cost" models and lead competitive RFxs to standardize spending.
  4. Collaborate closely with Engineering, Finance, and Legal to ensure efficient yet rigorous procurement processes.
  5. Monitor supplier performance via structured QBRs and KPIs, ensuring partners meet high quality and safety standards and grow with Aurora.

Skills

Required

  • strategic sourcing
  • enterprise software procurement
  • SaaS procurement
  • cloud services procurement
  • contingent workforce management
  • AV operations support
  • global sourcing strategies
  • cost modeling
  • total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis
  • written communication
  • verbal communication
  • presentation development
  • stakeholder management
  • influencing skills

Nice to have

  • ERP systems
  • procurement tools (Coupa, SAP Ariba, Oracle)
  • contingent labor programs
  • operational/field services management
  • AV industry experience
  • robotics industry experience
  • high-tech manufacturing experience

What the JD emphasized

  • 10+ years of strategic sourcing experience
  • strong focus on Software and Professional Services categories
  • Strong analytical skills
  • cost modeling
  • total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • developing presentations for financial and business leadership
  • fast-paced, high-growth tech environment
  • evolving procurement needs
  • Excellent stakeholder management
  • ability to influence at all levels
  • Candidates with a background in AV, robotics, or high-tech manufacturing are preferred.