Role description
Strategic Sourcing Manager
lumilensABOUT LUMILENS
At Lumilens we are building the critical photonics infrastructure that powers tomorrow’s AI supercomputing. From chip-to-chip optical interconnects to scalable photonic engines, Lumilens is unlocking a new era of computing faster, cooler, and massively more efficient.
We’re a well-funded startup backed by Mayfield and led by veterans who’ve built and scaled some of the most transformative technologies in the industry. This isn’t incremental innovation, it’s a ground-floor opportunity to rethink the optical layer from the silicon up. You’ll work alongside a team of world-class engineers solving some of the hardest challenges in optics, systems, and scale. Every decision you make will directly influence how we build, source, and deliver the infrastructure of tomorrow.
If you're looking for mission, momentum, and the chance to make an outsized impact, jump on the rocket ship. We’re just getting started.
POSITION OVERVIEW
We are seeking a Strategic Sourcing Manager to join our rapidly growing team. This role is critical in building and scaling a resilient, high-performance supplier network to support our next-generation photonics products.
You will own supplier strategy, sourcing, commercial negotiations, and supply continuity across key categories including silicon photonics, advanced packaging, and optical components. The ideal candidate will build strong supplier relationships, negotiate pricing and terms, and work cross-functionally with engineering, operations, and manufacturing partners to align sourcing decisions with product development and production goals. This is a highly visible role with direct impact on cost, quality, scalability, and time-to-market.
What You'll Do
Develop and execute strategic sourcing plans aligned with product roadmaps and company growth objectives
Identify, qualify, onboard, and manage key suppliers across component vendors, contract manufacturers, and strategic manufacturing partners
Lead supplier negotiations across pricing, lead times, capacity, quality, and commercial terms. Negotiate and execute master supply agreements and other critical commercial agreements, including Statement of Work (SOW), development agreements, NDAs, etc.
Drive cost optimization initiatives through early design engagement, market intelligence, should-cost modeling, supplier process improvement, and long-term supply agreements.
Ensure supply continuity and mitigate risk through multi-sourcing, supplier performance management, and contingency planning
Partner with cross functional teams to drive supplier selection process (own RFx), support component and module qualification during NPI programs and enable smooth transitions to high-volume manufacturing
Collaborate with operations and manufacturing partners to align demand, capacity, and delivery commitments
Develop and drive supplier performance against KPIs including cost, quality, delivery, responsiveness, capacity and innovation
Act as the primary escalation path for his/her respective commodity.
Key Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field
10+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, or supply chain management within semiconductor, photonics, or high-tech industries
Strong experience working with global suppliers including contract manufacturers, specialty component vendors, and strategic manufacturing partners
Experience in optical technologies and demonstrated experience with deployment of manufacturing processes
Proven track record supporting NPI to HVM transitions in complex hardware environments and with contract manufacturers
Deep understanding of strategic sourcing fundamentals including cost modeling, supplier negotiations, contract terms, and risk management
Experience working embedding with hardware engineering throughout product development process
Ability to operate cross-functionally and influence stakeholders across engineering, product management, operations, and finance
Actively participate in solving operational challenges to keep product schedules on track
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset
Experience in fast-paced, high-growth environments
Preferred Skills
Experience in silicon photonics, optical transceivers, or advanced packaging
Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and supply chain analytics tools
Experience building supply chains from early-stage to scale
Knowledge of global trade, logistics, and compliance considerations
Why Join Us?
● Competitive salary commensurate with experience
● Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance
● Professional development opportunities and certification support
● Access to cutting-edge photonics and advanced manufacturing technologies
● Collaborative work environment with cross-functional teams solving complex challenges
Lumilens is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, identity, orientation, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.