Head of Global Supply Chain

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

Head of Global Supply Chain

The Head of Global Supply Chain will play a crucial role in overseeing and optimizing our end-to-end supply chain operations. Our ideal candidate has deep knowledge of the manufacturing and/or space industries. As a key member of the leadership team, you will lead and manage purchasing, inventory management, and planning. At Rocket Lab, this role has a wide span covering the materials, suppliers, subcontractors and equipment that drive the daily business. The Supply Chain leader plays a highly visible, key leadership role in directing and leading supply chain initiatives across all business units by providing top-level direction in developing, implementing, and driving strategic plans for the Supply Chain team.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• Oversee the entire supply chain process, including procurement, logistics, inventory management, and distribution of material to internal customers
• Oversee subcontractor relationships, equipment, and planning.
• In collaboration with executive leadership, establish key strategies for the supply chain team
• Develop and implement supply chain strategies to optimize efficiency and cost-effectiveness
• Maintain a positive and professional relationship with all potential and existing trade associates and suppliers
• Work collaboratively with other key departments (Legal, Sales, Finance, etc) to align supply chain strategies with overall business goals
• Drive continuous improvement through value engineering to ensure best ideas and solutions are implemented
• Manage the supply chain team and provide guidance and leadership to ensure smooth operations
• Analyze supply chain data and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and cost savings
• Implement and maintain systems and technologies to enhance supply chain visibility and control
• Ensure compliance with regulations and ethical standards within the supply chain
• Meet all customer specifications/requirements for materials, vendors and suppliers

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field and 12+ years of experience in Supply Chain
• 7+ years of senior leadership role and team management within the manufacturing or space industry
• Experience managing large contracts, programs and multiple priorities
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, logistics, and planning
• Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement and cost-saving initiatives
• Strong negotiation skills with experience in sourcing, planning and international manufacturing
• Have a strong process orientation coupled with the ability to operate in a less structured environment when necessary
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• Government contract experience

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.

Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, stock options, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits may also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation , holidays , and sick leave ; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$175,000 – $270,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here .

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Biow at [redacted]. This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States’ International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.