Director of Procurement

We are seeking an experienced Director of Procurement to lead our hardware procurement team for data center builds across the US.  This position will play a critical role in managing the procurement process for our GPU cloud infrastructure, with a primary focus on hardware acquisition for data centers. Your expertise in negotiating prices, ensuring on-time delivery of critical components, and building and leading a high-performing procurement team will be vital to the success of our operations.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the procurement strategy for hardware components required for data center builds in alignment with the company's growth objectives and financial targets.
• Evaluate market trends and industry developments to identify opportunities for cost optimization, supplier diversification, and innovation.
• Identify and establish partnerships with reliable and reputable hardware suppliers, negotiating favorable terms and conditions to secure competitive prices and on-time delivery.
• Conduct supplier performance evaluations regularly and develop improvement plans to ensure consistent quality and service levels.
• Streamline and enhance the procurement process, leveraging technology and automation to increase efficiency, accuracy, and transparency.
• Implement best practices to reduce lead times and minimize the risk of supply chain disruptions.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of procurement professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Provide guidance and support to team members, ensuring their professional growth and development.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks associated with procurement, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Implement contingency plans to address unforeseen challenges in the supply chain.
• Collaborate with the finance department to develop and manage the procurement budget, tracking expenses, and optimizing costs without compromising quality.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• 8-10 years of experience in hardware procurement, specifically for data center builds.
• Proven track record of successful price negotiation and on-time delivery of critical components.
• Previous experience managing and leading a procurement team.
• In-depth knowledge of cloud infrastructure hardware, industry standards, and emerging technologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Familiarity with procurement software and tools.
• Certification in supply chain management (e.g., CPSM, CSCP) is a plus.