Director of Strategic Sourcing

About Valar Atomics

Valar Atomics is pioneering advancements in clean nuclear energy, aiming to make high-temperature nuclear power scalable and accessible for industrial applications, hydrogen production, and future manufacturing technologies. The team consists of dedicated engineers and operators focused on delivering fast-to-deploy, factory-produced nuclear energy solutions. Their initial pilot facility in Orangeville, Utah will serve as a demonstration of advanced nuclear systems and fuel manufacturing capabilities.

Role Overview

Within the Manufacturing division, the Procurement team ensures timely acquisition of materials, equipment, and supplier agreements crucial for manufacturing and operational functions. This department creates resilient supply chains prioritizing quality, cost-efficiency, and reliable delivery.

The Director of Strategic Sourcing will lead a lean and impactful sourcing team responsible for supplier strategy throughout the supply chain. Key initiatives include driving total cost of ownership reductions via market insights, should-cost building, RFx processes, and skilled negotiations. This role requires establishing strategic supplier partnerships and formal agreements to safeguard relationships and enforce compliance. Collaboration with cross-functional teams and external partners to optimize policies and enhance process scalability is essential.

Primary Responsibilities

• Take charge of cross-departmental supplier selection and conduct negotiations for critical components and services.
• Develop and enforce sourcing policies that maximize operational efficiency and scalability.
• Develop and utilize cost modeling to pinpoint and prioritize sourcing opportunities with high impact.
• Communicate sourcing strategies and achievements to executive leadership.
• Establish and maintain robust, strategic partnerships with top-tier suppliers.
• Stay current on industry and market trends, integrating new developments into sourcing strategies.
• Identify potential supply base risks early and proactively implement mitigation strategies.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, operations, or a related discipline.
• More than 15 years of experience in strategic sourcing or supply chain management.
• At least 5 years in leadership roles managing sourcing or procurement teams.
• Proven expertise in negotiating large, complex contracts in safety-critical sectors.
• Experience working across multiple commodity categories including raw materials, direct and indirect materials, and services.
• Ability to operate effectively in fast-moving and highly regulated environments.
• Demonstrated success in building or scaling a strategic sourcing function from the ground up.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• MBA or master’s degree in supply chain, operations, or a closely related field.
• Background in the nuclear industry.
• Advanced negotiation and business skills, including contract design, pricing models, total cost of ownership, and should-cost analysis.
• Strong capabilities in cross-functional leadership.
• Work experience in startup or high-growth company environments is advantageous.
• Certifications like CPIM or CPSM are a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive base salary ranging from $225,000 to $275,000 USD annually.
• Equity ownership opportunities in a rapidly expanding advanced energy firm.
• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.
• Unlimited paid time off.
• Complimentary daily lunch and dinner onsite.
• Generous stipend for personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Dynamic startup work environment offering substantial autonomy and ownership.
• Potential for swift career progression and internal growth.
• Close collaboration with seasoned engineers, operators, and industry experts.
• Chance to contribute to building transformative energy technologies from inception.

Equal Opportunity Employment

Valar Atomics provides equal employment opportunities irrespective of race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any legally protected category. The company is devoted to maintaining a discrimination- and harassment-free workplace and offers reasonable accommodations as required by law. Candidates must have legal authorization to work in the United States, such as citizenship or permanent residency.