Job Description
The Softgoods Global Supply Manager owns the global sourcing strategy for specialized softgoods, including technical textiles, protective coverings, compression-molded foams, and aesthetic interfaces. This role is accountable for supplier selection, cost, capacity, quality, and risk across the softgoods supply base, from prototype builds to volume production.
You will work directly with Industrial Design, Manufacturing, Quality, and Program teams to ensure soft components are manufacturable, scalable, and delivered on time. Your mission is to secure high-precision soft hardware that meets aggressive market timelines while maintaining a rigorous focus on cost efficiency and quality.
Responsibilities
Global Sourcing & Supplier Strategy
Execute sourcing strategies for technical textiles, compression-molded foams, synthetic skins, and precision-stitched assemblies.
Identify, qualify, and onboard suppliers capable of supporting rapid iteration and production ramps.
Lead RFQs, cost modeling, and supplier negotiations across global regions.
Drive supplier footprint decisions aligned with cost, capacity, and geopolitical risk.
Cost, Tooling & Scalability
Own should-cost models and drive costs down through design collaboration, process optimization, and commercial negotiations.
Define tooling strategies, capacity investments, and ramp plans with suppliers.
Balance prototype speed with production scalability without burning bridges or budgets.
NPI & Engineering Partnership
Support NPI from early design through production ramp.
Partner with Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Design teams to influence DFM/DFA and reduce cost and lead time.
Source and manage prototype, pilot, and production suppliers while meeting aggressive timelines.
Drive accuracy and cost-tracking across the entire mechanical and softgoods Bill of Materials (BOM).
Supplier Performance & Risk Management
Own supplier performance across quality, delivery, cost, and responsiveness.
Lead capacity planning, dual-sourcing, and risk mitigation for long-lead and critical parts.
Resolve supply disruptions decisively and prevent repeats.
Cross-Functional Leadership
Communicate sourcing strategies, risks, and tradeoffs clearly to technical and executive teams.
Operate with urgency, data, and accountability in a fast-moving robotics environment.
Qualifications
Required
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field.
7+ years of global sourcing or supply chain experience for complex hardware.
Direct experience sourcing soft materials (Foam, TPU, or technical textiles) for robotics, aerospace, high-performance outdoor gear, or complex hardware applications.
CM Management: Proven experience managing Tier 1 Contract Manufacturers and Top Level Assembly (TLA) partners for complex sub-systems.
Experience supporting NPI and scaling production in hardware-focused companies.
Proven track record of negotiating multi-million dollar contracts and managing high-stakes supplier relationships.
Ability to operate in an environment of extreme ambiguity and high-speed iteration.
Preferred
Master’s degree in a relevant engineering or business field (MBA).
Experience in robotics, EV, automotive, or high-volume electromechanical products.
Sourcing experience across Asia, North America, and Europe.
Comfortable working directly with drawings, BOMs, and cost breakdowns.
Compensation
The US base salary range for this full-time position is $140,000 - $220,000 annually.
The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended.