Head / Director of Supply Chain

About the CompanyA high-growth, venture-backed climate technology startup developing novel industrial hardware.About the RoleSeeking a hands-on Head / Director of Supply Chain to scale operations from R&D prototyping into full commercial deployment. Reporting to executive leadership, this role will architect commercial procurement strategy, drive vendor negotiations, and oversee a team including a Purchasing Analyst and Inventory Clerk.ResponsibilitiesCommercial Sourcing & Scaling: Shift component purchasing from low-volume R&D spot buying to scalable, high-volume commercial agreements.Contract Negotiation & Margin Improvement: Lead vendor contract negotiations, pricing structures, and payment terms to achieve targeted cost reductions and margin gains.Supply Chain Architecture: Partner with Engineering and Finance on make vs. buy analyses, long-lead hardware procurement, and risk mitigation strategies.Vendor & Contract Manufacturing Management: Oversee external contract manufacturers, manage custom mechanical BOMs, and conduct supplier site audits to maintain delivery timelines and inventory accuracy.Team Leadership: Direct daily operations and career growth for the existing procurement team (Purchasing Analyst and Inventory Clerk) as the department expands.QualificationsExperience: Senior Manager or Director-level leadership scaling supply chain functions from early build phases to commercial production.Industry Background: Strong preference for candidates from heavy mechanical equipment, vacuum systems, power generation, energy infrastructure, or hardware tech startups (e.g., small nuclear or industrial equipment).Automotive Exclusions: Pure high-volume traditional automotive Tier-1/OEM backgrounds are excluded unless paired with direct energy, power generation, or oil & gas experience.Core Skills: Proven track record structuring multi-million-dollar commercial agreements, renegotiating supplier terms, and transitioning custom hardware from prototype to production.Logistics & Work Authorization: Must be located in or willing to work hybrid/onsite in Wixom, MI, with full legal authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.Pay range and compensation packageBase Salary: $150,000 – $220,000 commensurate with experience.Equity: Meaningful stock option package.Health & Wellness: 100% employer-covered health coverage for the employee and 80% for dependents.Retirement: 401(k) with 100% dollar-for-dollar match up to 4%.Additional Benefits: Student loan repayment assistance and dependent care contributions.Equal Opportunity StatementWe are committed to diversity and inclusivity in our hiring practices.