Manager, Procurement & Strategic Partnerships

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.

Base Salary Range

There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position.

Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance.