WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $161,100 to $194,000 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.
SUMMARY
Redwire is seeking an experienced and strategic Deputy Director of Supply Chain to help lead our international Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) manufacturing operations. Reporting to the Director of Global Supply Chain, the Deputy Director owns day-to-day operating execution across the domestic supply chain and deputizes for the Director as needed. The role guides and implements the policies and processes that optimize end-to-end operations across procurement, production planning, logistics, and supplier management, drives data-driven performance and continuous improvement, and develops the site management team. Strong leadership, sound judgment, and the ability to drive operational excellence are central to meeting customer demand, reducing cost, and strengthening overall supply chain performance.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.
- Serve as deputy to the Director of Supply Chain, owning day-to-day operating execution across the domestic sites (San Luis Obispo, Huntsville, and Ann Arbor) and stepping in for the Director as needed.
- Manage core supply chain functions across sites, including procurement, materials management, supply chain planning, and supplier relationship management.
- Drive the analytics process in partnership with the Analytics team: define KPIs and baselines for on-time delivery, spend, supplier performance, and inventory, set the reporting cadence, and lead return-to-green plans for critical suppliers.
- Lead, coach, mentor, and develop site managers and buyers, and onboard and train new managers, including extended on-site support during the stand-up of new site leadership.
- Coordinate cross-site strategy, communication, and shared procurement, including combined sourcing across San Luis Obispo and Huntsville.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, and support or lead negotiations to drive cost savings.
- Support the Director's compliance program, including CPSR, DCMA surveillance, FAR and DFARS, and content and trade requirements such as the Berry Amendment, NDAA, and TAA, working alongside the Compliance function to keep execution aligned with requirements.
- Identify and implement process improvements, automation, and ERP (Odoo) initiatives to enhance supply chain visibility, efficiency, and agility.
- Monitor supply chain risk and develop contingency and business continuity plans.
- Travel to company and supplier sites as needed to support execution, onboarding, training, and supplier engagement.
- Collaborate across functions, including engineering, manufacturing, programs, quality, contracts, and finance, to synchronize supply chain activity.
- Support global supply chain strategy in alignment with the company's business objectives, and stay current on industry trends, technologies, and best practices.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
The following are non-exhaustive qualifications for the position:
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. An MBA or advanced degree is highly desirable.
- 10+ years in progressively senior supply chain or operations leadership, preferably in aerospace, defense, or aviation, with exposure to UAS/UAV products a plus.
- Strong understanding of procurement, materials management, production planning, logistics, and inventory management.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and execute supply chain strategies that align with business objectives.
- Experience with DCMA and DoD FAR and DFARS supply chain regulations and government purchasing system (CPSR) expectations.
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills, with a track record of managing complex supplier relationships and driving cost savings.
- Experience implementing supply chain digitalization, including advanced analytics, automation, and ERP systems.
- Proficiency in supply chain analytics and the use of data-driven insights to guide decisions and process improvements.
- Strong leadership and managerial skills, with the ability to develop and motivate a high-performing, multi-site team.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on operational efficiency and continuous improvement.
- Solid organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing and Six Sigma principles is desirable.
- Willingness to travel to company and supplier sites as needed.
- A commitment to continual learning and growth, as a leader and in the field.
REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS
- Matching 401(k)
- Paid PTO
- Paid holidays
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance
- Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
- HSA and FSA Options
- Critical Care Plan
- Accident Care Plan
- Employee Stock Purchasing Program (ESPP)
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS
This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.
REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.