Deputy Director of Supply Chain

Work Location and Compensation

This position is based in San Luis Obispo, CA. The role is classified as exempt under FLSA guidelines. The projected annual salary range for this job is between 161100 and 194000 USD. This estimate reflects typical market rates and candidate qualifications but may vary based on skills, experience, location, and internal salary structures.

Role Overview

Redwire is seeking a skilled and strategic Deputy Director of Supply Chain to play a pivotal role in managing the Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) manufacturing operations globally. Reporting directly to the Director of Global Supply Chain, this role oversees daily supply chain operations in domestic sites and fills in for the Director when necessary. The Deputy Director focuses on optimizing procurement, production planning, logistics, and supplier relations through data-driven strategies and continuous process improvement while developing leadership capabilities within the supply chain team.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the secondary lead, managing daily supply chain operations across locations including San Luis Obispo, Huntsville, and Ann Arbor, and representing the Director when needed.
• Oversee essential supply chain areas such as procurement, material management, planning, and maintaining supplier relationships across multiple sites.
• Collaborate with the Analytics team to define and measure key performance indicators (KPIs) like on-time delivery, expenditures, supplier performance, and inventory levels and formulate improvement plans for critical suppliers.
• Mentor, coach, and develop site managers and buyers, assist in onboarding new leadership, and provide on-site support during leadership transitions.
• Facilitate coordination of cross-site strategies ensuring aligned communication and shared procurement efforts, including joint sourcing initiatives between San Luis Obispo and Huntsville locations.
• Maintain robust relationships with suppliers and spearhead or assist in negotiations to achieve cost reductions.
• Support regulatory compliance initiatives, including CPSR, DCMA surveillance, FAR, DFARS, Berry Amendment, NDAA, and TAA regulations, collaborating with the Compliance department to ensure all operations meet mandated standards.
• Identify and drive supply chain improvements utilizing automation tools, ERP (Odoo) systems, and process changes to boost visibility, efficiency, and flexibility.
• Assess supply chain risks and implement contingency and business continuity plans effectively.
• Travel as necessary to company and supplier locations to aid in execution, training, onboarding, and relationship management.
• Work cross-functionally with departments such as engineering, manufacturing, quality, contracts, finance, and programs to synchronize supply chain activities.
• Support alignment of global supply chain strategy with corporate goals and keep abreast of industry advancements, technologies, and best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or related discipline; advanced degrees like an MBA are highly preferred.
• Over 10 years of escalating leadership experience in supply chain or operations, ideally within aerospace, defense, aviation sectors with familiarity in UAS/UAV products being a plus.
• Comprehensive knowledge of procurement, materials handling, production scheduling, logistics, and inventory management.
• Proven ability to create and implement supply chain strategies aligned with organizational objectives.
• Experience working with DCMA, DoD FAR and DFARS supply chain regulations, and government purchasing frameworks such as CPSR.
• Strong negotiation skills with a proven history of managing intricate supplier networks and reducing costs.
• Hands-on experience in deploying supply chain digitalization including analytics, automation, and ERP technologies.
• Expertise in supply chain metrics and the use of data to support informed decisions and continuous improvements.
• Effective leadership and team development capabilities managing multi-site teams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities for collaborative work with varied stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with a focus on operational efficiencies and ongoing enhancement of processes.
• Skilled at managing multiple projects and priorities with strong organizational abilities.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies is advantageous.
• Willingness to travel to support supplier engagement, training, and site assistance.
• Dedication to personal growth and continuous learning as a leader and industry professional.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching program
• Paid time off and holidays
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Short and long-term disability coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
• Critical Care and Accident Care insurance plans
• Employee Stock Purchase Program available

Clearance and Compliance

This role may involve access to information regulated by ITAR and/or EAR. Candidates must provide documentation verifying U.S. person status in compliance with these regulations for employment eligibility.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The position includes a mixture of standard office work and presence in production environments. Typical office tools are used; candidates must maintain focus despite potential distractions and physical activities such as walking, climbing, bending, stooping, crouching, and lifting up to 30 pounds may be required. Appropriate personal protective equipment like safety glasses, shoes, and coats will be provided. Ability to visually and verbally communicate effectively is essential, and some travel via car or plane may be necessary.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Redwire Defense Tech is dedicated to equal employment opportunities and values diversity regardless of race, color, religion, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. The organization commits to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and promotes a supportive and fair workplace environment. Employment is on an at-will basis.