Manager, Procurement & Strategic Partnerships

About the role

The Manager, Procurement & Strategic Partnerships will lead a high-performing procurement team responsible for the end-to-end strategic sourcing, commercial execution, and lifecycle management of Zoox’s chassis control portfolio, including suspension, braking, and steering systems. Operating in a demanding, fast-paced environment, this role blends people leadership with commercial execution - driving global supplier strategies, leading contract negotiations, and partnering closely with Engineering, Program, Quality and Finance to meet vehicle cost, quality, and production milestones.

In this role, you will

• Team Leadership & Integrity: Build, scale, and mentor a high-performing procurement team while maintaining compliance with company policies and the highest standard of professional ethics.
• Sourcing Strategy: Lead the end-to-end RFI/RFQ/RFP processes and develop long-term global sourcing strategies for chassis components to minimize cost and optimize terms.
• Commercial Negotiations: Lead complex negotiations for master supply agreements, production statements of work and secure best-in-class pricing.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Partner with Engineering and Finance to build 3-5 year technology and costing roadmaps, ensuring technical requirements meet Design for Manufacturing (DfM) and vehicle margin targets.
• Supplier & Risk Management: Map the supply chain, evaluate supplier performance, and leverage data analysis to mitigate supply chain risks, ensure business continuity, and maintain automotive PPAP standards.

Qualifications

• Industry Experience: 10+ years of purchasing, procurement, or commodity management experience within the automotive chassis, vehicle dynamics, or heavy industrial manufacturing industry preferred, comparable electro mechanical experience will also be considered.
• People Leadership: Minimum 3+ years of dedicated experience directly managing, mentoring, and leading a team of purchasing professionals.
• Technical Acumen: Working knowledge of chassis product development, vehicle dynamics, and advanced manufacturing processes (e.g., forging, casting, machining, and mechanical/electromechanical assembly) preferred.
• Data & Analytics: Strong capabilities in organizing complex data, bid leveling, and financial forecasting, with high proficiency in Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets.
• Communication & Influence: Exceptional verbal, written, and presentation skills to build alignment and influence internal and cross functional stakeholders.