As the main point of contact for all of our suppliers, you'll source components for drones, payloads, software, and accessories, ensuring cost-efficiency and quality. This solo role requires technical drone industry knowledge to scale operations across public safety, inspection, and commercial sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement purchasing policies to source high-quality materials while minimizing costs, aligning with long-term supply chain goals.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with manufacturing partners, distributors, and industry stakeholders to secure new product lines and enhance market presence.
• Negotiate contracts with domestic and international vendors, ensuring compliance with supply chain regulations, trade laws, and quality standards.
• Manage Request for Proposal (RFP) processes to evaluate and select vendors, conducting due diligence on pricing, reliability, and innovation potential.
• Analyze market trends, forecast procurement needs, and manage inventory levels to prevent shortages and optimize stock turnover.
• Collaborate with finance and product teams on budgeting, vendor performance reviews, and cost-saving initiatives to support scalability.
• Oversee quality control of incoming materials, coordinating with operations to ensure product readiness for assembly and distribution.
• Develop and maintain supplier scorecards and risk management plans to mitigate supply chain disruptions. Schedule regular reviews with management. Develop and execute action plans based on their feedback.
• Lead cross-functional projects to integrate new product lines (e.g., security trailers, lidar) into the procurement strategy, including vendor onboarding.
• Provide strategic procurement insights to leadership, advising on global sourcing trends, sustainability practices, and partnership opportunities to drive growth.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related field preferred; relevant industry experience is prioritized.
• 7+ years in procurement, with 3+ in a director-level role, ideally in drone/UAV or tech hardware industries.
• Technical knowledge of drones, payloads, and industry trends.
• Expertise in ERP systems and negotiation tactics.
• Ability to travel occasionally and work in-office in the Los Angeles area

What We Offer:

Competitive salary: $90k-$120k annually, plus bonuses.

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

401(k), paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Retention incentives like profit-sharing and a modern office setting